Argan oil is a particular oil, which is extracted from the seeds of argan tree, that comes from the southwest of Morocco. Argan tree, Argania spinosa, grows in Africa for thousands of years and archaeological evidence indicates that people have extracted the oil for centuries. Argan trees grow with twisted and gnarled trunks and branches.
They have a deep root system, which allows them to better adapt to the harsh conditions of deserts. When the tree is well placed, it can live hundreds of years. Bears small flowers in April, which are followed by fruits that resemble the appearance of lime.
To derive argan oil, it is necessary to remove the outer layer of the pulp of the solids, which must be broken in order to get to the seeds inside. The flesh does not smell very nice, and is not very tasty. Usually, it is used for animal feed.
Traditionally, women produce argan oil, which comes from the roasted seeds that produce a tasty and rich aroma, then grind them by hand to get the argan oil. The resulting mixture is subject to compression in order to obtain oil.
Composition of argan oil
Argan oil has a high content of vitamin E and saturates. Its unique qualities are attributed to its exceptional chemical composition. Fatty acids in the Argan oil are linoleic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid. It is composed of the sterols stigmasterol, squalene, polyphenols and triterpene alcohols.
Argan oil is rich in vitamin A. Its composition has substances such as fungicides and antibiotics that help improve digestion, blood circulation and increase the body's defenses.
Selection and storage of argan oil
When you buy argan oil, you should make sure that you are buying an original product because you can find many products bearing the label argan oil, that actually are not. They do not bring any benefits.
For best results, use argan oil in its pure and natural form. Unfortunately Argan oil for cosmetic purposes is expensive, a fact which is due to its limited quantities. The oil should be stored in the refrigerator.
Argan oil in cooking
Argan oil has a mild and very pleasant flavor of walnuts. It is part of the traditional cuisine of Moroccans. Berber women use it in traditional dishes like cous cous and various pastries.
Cosmetic and culinary qualities of argan oil are well known to the Western world, but few people know that the oil extracted from the seeds is a key component of a healthy diet.
To have maximum effect, argan oil should be consumed raw because culinary processing reduces its beneficial properties. Due to the high price, argan oil is used mainly for dressing on salads or dipping bread.
Argan oil in cosmetics
Argan oil is widespread in cosmetics. Very often used for the hydration of the skin, it is believed to slow down the process of aging, preventing the appearance of wrinkles, stretch marks and other skin defects.
Hydrating benefits of argan oil can be used over the entire body, including the area around the eyes. A small amount of Argan oil is enough to cover large areas and does not remain fatty.
It is believed that argan oil makes wrinkles less noticeable. Due to its natural healing properties, argan oil is used to treat various skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. Argan oil can be used as a massage oil to reduce inflammation and pain caused by muscle and joint discomfort. Mixed with lemon juice, argan oil is used to strengthen your cuticles and brittle nails.
Argan oil is immediately absorbed by the hair and penetrates the roots and gives elasticity to damaged and dry hair. Due to the rapid absorption, Argan oil penetrates the roots and restores natural shine fast.
Nourishing hair
Argan oil hydrates hair naturally and nourishes it with vitamin E, which helps the repair and regeneration of hair. Saponins contained in argan oil keep the skin soft and smooth, and sterolines prevent eczema and inflammation. Wounds, burns and scratches disappear quickly after treating with argan oil.
One of the best ways to use argan oil against wrinkles is applying it on a clean face, before bedtime. To do this, put a bit of oil on your palm, rub and apply it on the face, neck and décolleté with soft massaging movements.
On clean hair, apply a small amount of argan oil. For deep nourishment, smear your scalp and entire hair length. Cover your head with a plastic screw cap, allow to stand for about 20 minutes, then wash the hair.
Benefits of Argan Oil
Consumption of argan oil has many health benefits. It stabilizes cholesterol, combats obesity, neutralizes free radicals, stimulates cellular exchanges, support liver function, contains the anti-cancer substance scotenol.
Argan oil stimulates brain function and increases your sperm concentration. For its cosmetic benefits, Argan oil helps to give volume and vitality to your hair, smoothing wrinkles and nourish dry skin.
Counteracts aging and drying of the skin and improves absorption of nutrients by the cells.
