Sweet Almond
Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis
Central Asia
Sweet Almond originated in Asia and is cultivated around the Mediterranean Basin for its fruits. It is mentioned by ancient authors, and the Bible traces its native origin to Palestine. In France, Sweet Almond is mentioned with other spices as far back as 716 in a charter granted by King Chilpéric. In 812, Charlemagne gave orders for Sweet Almond trees to be planted on all his imperial farms. During the Middle Ages, Sweet Almond was frequently used for culinary purposes and, in the 14th century, it accounted for a large part of Venetian commerce. Almond oil, extracted from the nuts, is used for its soothing and moisturizing properties to treat inflammation of the skin.
