What Is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is derived from the kernels inside the fruit of the slow-growing argan tree (Argania spinosa). Its popularity led to the creation of all-female collectives in southwest Morocco that produce the oil. The process involves harvesting the fruits, smashing the hard shells to extract the kernels, and pressing them to retrieve the oil. This oil can be sold as-is or transformed into creams and other products.
Planting and maintaining argan trees also offer environmental benefits, such as combating climate change and preventing desertification. The main argan forest in southwest Morocco is now recognized as an official biosphere reserve. However, the surge in argan oil’s popularity has resulted in aggressive harvesting techniques that harm the sensitive trees. Additionally, many larger companies have displaced the cooperatives that empower women.
To support sustainable harvesting and female empowerment, look for Fair Trade argan oil, particularly those with the UCFA (Union des Coopératives des Femmes de l’Arganeraie) seal, which ensures fair compensation for the women’s work and knowledge.
Top 6 Benefits of Using Argan Oil
Argan oil isn’t just for beauty; scientific research has revealed numerous other benefits. This natural oil can soothe inflammation, nourish the skin and body, speed up wound healing, and protect against harmful organisms. In Northern Africa, roasted argan oil is often drizzled over bread and used in cooking. It is rich in vitamins A and E, fatty acids, and antioxidants, offering benefits both internally and topically. Nearly half of argan oil is oleic acid, which is also found in olive oil and known for its heart health benefits.
Improves the Appearance of Acne & Scars
Argan oil’s omega-6 and omega-9 content reduces redness, swelling, and helps acne-prone skin. Despite the misconception that oils can worsen acne, argan oil can actually help by reducing redness and swelling and providing moisture without clogging pores. It also contains linoleic acid, an omega-6 essential fatty acid that is often deficient in those with acne-prone skin. Fatty acids in argan oil can speed up the healing of acne scars and reduce signs of premature aging. Its comedogenic index of zero means it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
Promotes Elasticity & Skin Hydration
Argan oil’s high levels of vitamins A and E and fatty acids deeply nourish the skin, improving its ability to retain water and maintain elasticity. This makes the skin look more youthful and healthy. It also creates a protective barrier against dirt, germs, and toxins, and may boost the skin’s ability to regenerate. Researchers found that argan oil could enhance cellular changes, helping the skin act as a barrier to dirt, germs, and free radicals.
Boosts Heart Health
Argan oil offers notable benefits for heart health. Studies show that consuming food-grade argan oil can improve good cholesterol (HDL) levels, normalize bad cholesterol (LDL), and balance triglyceride levels. Its high antioxidant levels help reduce oxidative stress by fighting free radical damage in cells. Additionally, argan oil promotes normal blood pressure, which is a major predictor of heart disease.
Supports Liver Health
Argan oil supports liver health and can protect against harmful organisms and toxins. Research indicates that it helps liver genes stay active, allowing damaged livers to recover more effectively. Argan oil also helps normalize insulin resistance, which is related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Promotes Normal Insulin & Blood Sugar Levels
Insulin resistance occurs when cells do not absorb insulin well, leading to high blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that consuming argan oil helps maintain normal blood sugar levels and balance insulin resistance. This may explain why locals in Morocco highly value the oil.
Protects Against Cell Proliferation
Due to its high antioxidant levels, argan oil helps protect skin from free radicals and UV radiation. It contains tocopherols, a form of vitamin E, and oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid. Internally, it helps reduce the risk of excess cell proliferation that can lead to serious diseases. Studies have shown that argan oil can benefit skin, colon, bladder, and prostate conditions.
Popular Argan Oil Uses
Natural Skin Care
Argan oil offers numerous cosmetic benefits for the skin and hair due to its healing, anti-aging, and antibacterial properties.
Improve the Appearance of Stretch Marks
The high vitamin A and E content in argan oil keeps the skin hydrated, improves its strength and elasticity, and reduces the appearance of stretch marks. After showering and exfoliating, gently rub a few drops onto areas prone to stretch marks, such as hips, thighs, and stomach. Massage the oil into the skin twice a day, including before bedtime.
Moisturize & Improve Skin Elasticity
Pure argan oil can be used as an all-over face and body moisturizer, suitable for oily, combination, or dry skin. For best results, massage it onto the body after showering or bathing, focusing on dry patches. Adding a few drops to a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil can extend its use. It also helps soothe razor bumps and ingrown hairs after shaving.
Reduce the Appearance of Acne
Argan oil is non-greasy and won’t clog pores, making it an excellent natural moisturizer for acne-prone skin. After cleansing and drying your skin, apply a few drops directly to affected areas twice daily.
Protect & Soften Hair
Argan oil nourishes and enhances the shine of hair, repairs split ends, and smooths flyaways. It coats the hair shaft, reducing drying and damage, and can even seal in hair dyes, extending the time between colorings. For deep conditioning, coat your hair with ten drops of oil from root to tip and leave it on overnight with a shower cap. In the morning, rinse with warm water and style as usual.
Moisturize Nail Cuticles
Applying a few drops of argan oil to fingernails and toenails can prevent hangnails and other nail health issues. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent moisturizer for the nail bed and cuticles. Rub a drop onto each nail and massage it in circular motions, leaving it to absorb.
Relieves Tired Feet
Argan oil can soothe dry, cracked skin on the feet and heels. Apply generously to cover the area and wear socks for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight. In the morning, use a warm washcloth to remove any excess oil.
Precautions & Side Effects
Ensure your argan oil is fresh, certified organic, and stored in a dark bottle to prevent oxidation. Fair trade-certified argan oil supports women artisans in Morocco sustainably. Poor quality argan oil may contain harmful solvents, so it’s crucial to choose cold-pressed, responsibly-sourced, additive-free options. For internal use, only consume food-grade oils. Rarely, argan oil may cause skin sensitivity or gastrointestinal issues. If you experience adverse reactions, consult a healthcare provider.
Points to Remember
Argan oil, often called “liquid gold,” is valued for its beauty and health benefits. It has been used for centuries in Morocco for its ability to improve the appearance of skin, acne, hair loss, psoriasis, and eczema. Argan oil is a secret to healthy, moisturized hair and is found in many skin and hair products. For maximum benefits, choose 100 percent pure argan oil and avoid products with solvent extraction. Internally, argan oil can help balance cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. To support sustainable and empowering practices, look for fair trade-certified products.
