Almond Bitter oil

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Almond Bitter Oil, derived from the kernels of bitter almonds (Prunus amygdalus var. amara), is an essential oil known for its sharp, nutty, and marzipan-like aroma. This oil is produced through steam distillation of crushed bitter almond kernels and contains a naturally occurring compound called benzaldehyde, which gives it its characteristic scent. In purified form (free of hydrogen cyanide), bitter almond oil is used in fragrance, flavoring, and pharmaceutical applications.

Due to its potent aroma and biochemical properties, it is widely used in perfumery, baked goods flavoring (in controlled quantities), aromatherapy, and traditional topical remedies. It is important to distinguish between natural bitter almond oil, which must be detoxified, and synthetic benzaldehyde, which is commonly used as a substitute in commercial formulations.

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Description

Uses

Primary Uses

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Used as a fragrance component in perfumes, creams, lotions, and bath products for its sweet almond-like aroma.
Added to high-end soaps and body oils for a rich, nutty scent.
Used in natural and artisanal deodorants and grooming products.
Occasionally included in lip care and hand creams (in fragrance-safe concentrations).
Applied in massage oils for its aromatic and skin-soothing properties (always diluted).

Pharmaceuticals

Utilized in topical analgesic balms for minor pain relief and irritation calming (diluted).
Employed as a flavoring agent in oral medications, especially cough syrups and lozenges.
Historically used in traditional systems for its soothing scent and mild anesthetic effects.

Food and Beverage Industry

Used in trace amounts in baked goods, marzipan, candies, and confectionery for a sweet almond flavor (must be food-grade and detoxified).
Applied in flavor extracts and essences for pastries, cookies, and liqueurs (e.g., amaretto-style flavors).
Used in certain traditional desserts and syrups across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Fragrance & Perfumery

Featured as a top or middle note in gourmand and oriental fragrance blends.
Commonly used in luxury perfumes and niche body sprays for its unique, nostalgic aroma.
Blended with vanilla, cherry, or floral notes to create rich, dessert-like scent profiles.

Secondary Uses

Aromatherapy & Wellness

Used in diffusers or inhalation blends to promote a sense of warmth and comfort.
Added to calming blends aimed at emotional balance or nostalgic sensory therapy.
Occasionally used in personalized aromatherapy blends as a softening note.

Household and Artisan Products

Used in candles and potpourri for a warm, sweet, nutty fragrance.
Added to homemade air fresheners, linen sprays, and room mists.
Occasionally used in high-end handmade products like solid perfumes and wax melts.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

Botanical Name: Prunus amygdalus var. amara
Common/Trade Name: Almond Bitter Oil / Bitter Almond Oil
INCI Name: Prunus Amygdalus Amara Kernel Oil
CAS Number: 8007-69-0
HS Code: 3301.29
Synonyms: Bitter Almond Essential Oil, Amygdalin Oil, Benzaldehyde Oil

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Liquid essential oil
Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; strong, sweet almond or marzipan-like aroma
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and fixed oils
Refractive Index: 1.540 – 1.560
Specific Gravity: 1.045 – 1.085
Main Components: Benzaldehyde (main constituent), amygdalin derivatives (must be detoxified)

Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification: Toxic if not purified; may contain hydrogen cyanide (HCN)
Toxicity: Only detoxified, food-grade versions are safe for use; always use diluted
Exposure Limits: Strict regulatory limits on benzaldehyde and cyanogenic compounds
Allergen Information: Contains potential allergens; perform patch testing before topical use

Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area
Container Type: Amber glass bottles or stainless steel drums
Shelf Life: Up to 24 months if stored correctly
Handling Precautions: Handle with care; avoid exposure to heat, air, and moisture

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Only HCN-free, detoxified oil is allowed for use in food and personal care
Subject to IFRA restrictions in cosmetic and fragrance formulations
Produced in GMP-compliant facilities
Must comply with FDA and EFSA limits for food-grade usage

Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Biodegradable under normal conditions
Ecotoxicity: High toxicity in raw/unrefined form due to cyanide content

Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate if used responsibly

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Gloves and goggles recommended when handling raw or concentrated oil
Handling Guidelines: Only use purified (HCN-free) versions; always dilute before topical use

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water; get medical help if needed
Ingestion: Seek emergency medical attention; ingestion of unpurified oil is dangerous

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Flammable oil; avoid heat and ignition sources
Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam, or water spray
Special Precautions: Use full protective gear and breathing apparatus

Hazardous Combustion Products: Benzaldehyde vapors, carbon oxides

Almond Bitter oil