Sweet Almond
(Prunus amygdalus dulcis)
Native to Asia Minor and Mesopotamia, the almond tree has been a powerful symbol since ancient Greece. It is said that while awaiting the return of her lover who had gone to war in Troy, Phyllis, the princess of Theseus, let herself die of sorrow when she did not see him return. Hera, the goddess of marriage, then transformed her into a small tree, which became a symbol of love: the almond tree.
Fond of sunny climates, the tree’s myriad of elegant flowers bloom in early March boasting white to pinkish hues. Its inflorescences produce velvety green berries containing a single seed: the coveted Sweet Almond.
From these almonds the oil is extracted with its seductive sweet smell. Appreciated for its softening and soothing properties, this oil is used in both hair and body care products, where it is even thought to help prevent the appearance of stretch marks.
