What good is argan oil?
Why is it called the elixir of beauty or liquid gold?
Argan oil is a valuable raw material for skin and hair care and is also known as a premium edible oil and nutritional supplement. Argan oil is extracted from the fruit of the argan tree (scientific name: Argania Spinosa), which belongs to the sapota family. Its natural habitat is limited to an area of 820,000 square kilometers in southwest Morocco.
The oil extracted from the seeds of the argan tree is used by the Berbers in their nutrition but also in traditional healing as an elixir for the skin and hair.
Its healing effect has been used by the Berbers for centuries, primarily for the treatment of wounds and inflammations, and for skin and hair care.
Argan oil contains tocopherols (vitamin E), sterols (phytosterols), polyphenols, ferulic acid, carotenoids, squalene, and fatty acids. Depending on the extraction method, argan oil may be more resistant to oxidation than olive oil. Chemical analysis reveals a composition of the following fatty acids:
44% Oleic acid; 30% Alpha-linolenic acid; 12% Palmitic acid; 6% Stearidonic acid; 5% Linoleic acid; and 3% Myristic acid
Argan oil contains 80% unsaturated fatty acids and is rich in essential fatty acids (EFAs) and the precursor of vitamin E, linoleic acid, making it rich in antioxidants, therefore a valuable resource in combating cell damage and early signs of aging, via its action as an anti-free radical agent.
Health benefits of argan oil:
May Boost Hair Health:
Argan oil is particularly useful in hair care, either in pure form or as an ingredient in shampoos and hair wraps. Phytosterols, squalene, ferulic acids, vitamin E, and polyphenols restore the shine and elasticity of split hair used. Argan oil can also be used to treat dandruff hair and extremely dry scalp.
May Reduce Signs of Skin Aging:
Argan oil has quickly become a popular ingredient for many skin care products.
Some research suggests that dietary intake of argan oil may help slow the aging process by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. It may also support the repair and maintenance of healthy skin when applied directly to your skin, thus reducing visual signs of aging.
Often Used to Treat and Prevent Stretch Marks:
Research indicates that argan oil may help reduce inflammation and improve the elasticity of skin — which could be why so many people report success in using it for stretch marks.
Has Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
The various phenolic compounds in argan oil are likely responsible for most of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities.
Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, or tocopherol, a fat-soluble vitamin that serves as a potent antioxidant to reduce the damaging effects of free radicals.
Other compounds present in argan oil, such as CoQ10, melatonin, and plant sterols, also play a role in its antioxidant capacity.
A recent study revealed a significant reduction in inflammatory markers in mice fed argan oil before exposure to a highly inflammatory liver toxin, compared to the control group.
Additionally, some research indicates that argan oil can also be applied directly to your skin to reduce inflammation caused by injuries or infections.