Apricot kernel oil is sometimes used for skin care purposes.
Apricot kernels are commonly used in food items for flavor and for skin care purposes. While there are no significant health risks regarding using apricot kernel oil topically, some concern over the safety of eating apricot kernels has been raised. However, they are still widely sold and used in commercial food products.
Sweet Apricot Kernels
Sweet apricot kernels are generally used in items such as sauces and risotto dishes. Sweet apricot kernels are usually used ground or very finely chopped to act as a binder, much the way that pine nuts are used in a traditional basil pesto sauce.
Bitter Apricot Kernels
Bitter apricot kernels are generally used ground to flavor prepared food items such as jams and jellies. The widely popular Italian cookies Amaretti di Saronno use a significant amount of bitter apricot kernels for their unique flavor.
Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil is commonly used in beauty products and as a carrier for essential oils such as rosemary, lavender, thyme and lemongrass. Proponents of apricot kernel oil for skin care often use it because of its light texture, which can dry faster than oils such as avocado oil or jojoba oil. It is also rich in polyunsaturated fats that nourish the skin.
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