Argan oil has become one of Morocco’s best-known products in recent years. However, there is a lot of mystery and misunderstanding surrounding this nut . The trees, called argania spinosa , are found exclusively in one part of Morocco: the southwest, near Essaouira and Agadir. For years, the people of this region have used and processed the oil, and they do it expertly! 

For generations, Moroccans have used this oil  in their cooking, not only for its delicate nutty flavor, but also for its wide range of multiple health benefits .

This natural vegetable oil is extracted from the kernels of the fruit of the Argan tree.

Even though this golden oil originated from Morocco, it is now used for various culinary , cosmetic and medical purposes all over the world.

 The Benefits of Argan Oil 

Argan oil has many benefits. As mentioned above, Argan oil can be used for various purposes. This can be explained by its nutritional and cosmetic benefits to our skin, hair and body. Let’s take a closer look to its multiple benefits and find out how can we choose a high-quality Argan oil :

 1. Provides essential nutrients 

Argan oil is mainly composed of fatty acids and other phenolic components. Most of the fat content of Argan oil is made up of oleic and linoleic acid .  Linoleic acid, or omega-6, makes up about 29-36% of the fatty acid composition of Argan oil , making it a rich source of this vital vitamin.

Although not required, oleic acid makes up 43-49 percent of the fatty acid content of Argan oil and is a very beneficial fat.  Oleic acid , which is also found in Olive oil , is well known for its beneficial effect on heart health.

It is also rich in vitamin E , which is essential for healthy skin, hair and eyes .  

 2. Can improve heart health

The golden oil contains a high concentration of oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fat.

Oleic acid is found in a variety of foods, including avocado and olive oils , and is frequently associated with heart protective properties .

In a small investigation, Argan oil was found to be equivalent to Olive oil in its ability to reduce the risk of heart disease by influencing the levels of antioxidants in the blood.

 3. Possibility of anticancer effects

Some cancer cells can be slowed down in their development and reproduction by Argan oil.

In test-tube research, polyphenolic components of Argan oil were administered to prostate cancer cells. Compared to the control group, the extract reduced the proliferation of cancer cells by 50%.

A pharmaceutical-grade combination of Argan oil and vitamin E improved the rate of cell death in breast and colon cancer cell samples in another test-tube research.

 4. It has the potential to reduce the signs of skin aging.

Argan oil quickly gained popularity as a component of many skin care products .

According to some studies, the use of Argan oil can help delay the aging process by decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress . When applied directly to your skin, it can also aid in healing and the preservation of healthy skin, thereby decreasing the visible symptoms of aging.

As it has been demonstrated in human trials, when the golden oil is consumed or used topically, it helps to improve the softness and moisture of the skin of postmenopausal women.

 5. Are you prone to acne? Argan oil can still be used.

While it may seem like applying oil to acne isn’t a good idea, Argan oil can really improve acne-prone skin. People often get rashes not because their skin is inherently oily, but because it is irritated, dry, and damaged. “One of the key fatty acids in Argan oil, linoleic acid, can help reduce inflammation, soothe skin, and promote moisture.”

 6. Treatment of diabetes

In a recent study , Argan oil was found to reduce insulin resistance in people. This is important because insulin resistance is usually the first step towards diabetes.  It has also been shown to be useful in the treatment of diabetes by correcting metabolic abnormalities in people with high sugar diets.

 7. Anti-inflammatory properties

The flavonoids included in Argan oil have anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to treat both exterior and interior issues. Massage a few drops of pure Argan oil on the affected area of ​​your skin to relieve sore muscles and joints. People with polycystic ovary syndrome , excessive weight gain , poor digestion , or even bladder issues can greatly benefit from the internal anti-inflammatory properties of culinary grade argan  oil. 

 8. Night moisturizer

Argan oil penetrates quickly and leaves no greasy marks. Pour one drop every night in your hand to warm it immediately after washing the skin with the all-natural cleanser; this golden liquid  is gentle and safe to use near the eyes, making it a great addition to your daily skincare routine.

 9. Immune strengthening 

It has been shown in recent studies that this golden oil can strengthen the immune system . It is due to the powerful antioxidants in Argan oil , which work to support normal immunological function . 

10. Can also be used as a hair product.

This Morocco originated oil can improve the condition of your scalp because it is rich in important fatty acids . “Because our scalp contains the cells that build up our hair, keeping a healthy scalp is crucial for beautiful hair.” 

Try this to help the fatty acids needed to reach your scalp: Warm up the oil by rubbing your hands together after adding 1-3 drops in your palms. Massage any excess into your scalp after applying from roots to ends. It can help treat dandruff and itchy scalp , repair split ends , and even promote hair growth.

 How to choose Argan oil:

• Always choose 100% organic to limit your exposure to toxins.
• Choose cold-pressed oil , as this method of extraction preserves the integrity of the oil and its beneficial properties.
• Avoid plastic containers and choose a dark glass container when possible. Dark glass shields the oil from light , which can alter its best properties and make it less effective.
• Argan oil should have a slightly cloudy appearance. This is a sign that the oil is organic and not counterfeit.
• Moroccan Argan oil is gold in color, hence the nickname ” liquid gold “. If the color is pale or much darker, it may not be pure Argan oil .
• Argan should be the only ingredient. Avoid oils containing additives or preservatives.