Almonds are native of Middle East and were probably abundant in ancient times, since they are mentioned several times in the bible.
The Hebrew name for the almond, shakud, means “hasty awakening,” which probably derives from its prolific and fragrant bloom in late winter, ahead of most other orchard species.
Aaron’s rod was made of almond wood, and Jewish people often carry blooming almond branches to synagogues for festivals.
Ancient pagans thought almonds symbolized virginity. Some even used almonds as an emblem of the Virgin Mary.
While symbolizing virginity, almonds were also used as fertility charms and marriage blessings.
Italians used to distribute almonds at wedding as tokens of fruitfulness.
The almond was referred to as the “womb of the world,” suggestive of its supposed both birth-bringing powers.
Reference to the flowering almond in older poetry often meant “hope” according to “the language of flowers.”
However, almond trees have a somewhat conflicting symbolism: giddiness, heedlessness, stupidity, indiscretion, and thoughtlessness.
Almonds were left in King Tutankhamen’s tomb to provide nourishment in his afterlife.
Almonds branches were used as divining rods in Tuscany, Italy.
Almonds have been used as a folk remedy for cancers, tumors, ulcers, corns and calluses. Almonds were thought to prevent intoxication from drinking too much alcohol.
As with other members of Prunus, bitter almonds contain cyanogenic glycosides in seeds, bark and leaves; of eaten in large quantities, they can cease convulsions and death. About 50 to 70 bitter almonds cause death in adults; seven to ten can cause death in children, while three can cause severe poisoning. The sweet almonds of commerce do not contain these compounds.
Phloretin is an antibiotic-like compound found in bark and root extracts; in concentrate form, phloretin can kill certain bacteria.
The major nonfood usage of almond is for oil. Almond oil is highly valued for used in cosmetics and creams, and bitter almond oil is used as an essential oil. The oil is sued to treat various forms of dermatitis.
The story of almond (Prunus dulcis)
