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You have probably heard about argan oil, the famous chemical-free substitute for hair and skincare. But what’s so special about this oil, and why the buzz about it? 

It’s because argan oil provides many benefits to almost all parts of the body. It is nutrient-rich, nourishes the skin and hair, and is even used for cooking.

There’s a day dedicated to it, the International Day of Argania (Argan Tree), which is today.

Let’s see what’s so great about the argan oil from Morocco.

What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa). These trees are native to Morocco, and they grow in the southwest region of the country. 

Argan oil is also called liquid gold due to its rich golden color and composition. It is a common ingredient in many products, like creams and shampoo, and is available in pure oil form. 

In recent years, argan oil has gained worldwide popularity and is highly sought-after. But for centuries, the Moroccans have been using this liquid gold as a natural remedy.

Also Read: The Importance of Wildlife: No Exaggeration

Composition of Argan Oil

Argan oil has fantastic content; here’s a breakdown of the key components:

Fatty Acids

Fatty acids are the main building blocks of plant oils, which give them their lubricating properties. Argan oil contains a large amount of unsaturated fatty acids, mostly oleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (omega-9 fatty acid). Besides these, it also contains palmitic acid and stearic acid. 

Vitamin E

Argan oil is rich in alpha-tocopherol, which is a biologically active and easily absorbable form of vitamin E.

Tocopherol has antioxidant properties that fight off free radicals, which can damage body cells. 

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are a group of natural chemical compounds found in plants. They have anti-oxidative properties and offer a few anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Phytosterols

These plant-based molecules are similar to cholesterol but without the negative effects. Phytosterols protect the skin barrier and promote a healthy scalp.

Squalene

Squalene is a lightweight compound that is like the body’s natural sebum. It protects the skin and the hair against environmental damage.

Carotenoids

This group of natural pigments is responsible for the color of argan oil. Carotenoids make the body look radiant.

Benefits of Argan Oil from Morocco

Argan oil serves many purposes, irrespective of gender, as many would think.

Skin Moisturization

Argan oil is an exceptional moisturizer; it hydrates dry and flaky skin and makes the skin soft. It helps the skin prevent water loss by creating a protective layer on its surface. Its high concentration of linoleic and oleic acids enables it to do this. 

Skin dehydration is a significant problem because it leads to sagging and premature aging.

The antioxidants in argan oil, such as vitamin E, neutralize free radicals. Here’s how.

Daily exposure to UV rays, pollution, and certain lifestyle habits makes the body produce free radicals. The issue is that free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells. 

They contribute to premature aging and make the skin lose elasticity. And so, by neutralizing free radicals, argan oil reduces the appearance of fine lines and age spots.

Acne Treatment

Argan oil is non-comedogenic, which means it is lightweight and doesn’t clog skin pores. Owing to this, it is suitable for skin that is prone to acne. 

It also helps smooth skin irritation and reduce redness and swelling. For this reason, argan oil is a great choice for people dealing with acne and blemishes.

Hair Care

This oil conditions the hair, making it manageable, shining, and smooth. Argan can seal moisture in the hair, reducing frizz and dryness. 

The polyphenols it contains allow it to protect the hair from environmental effects like UV radiation. 

It also strengthens hair follicles and prevents breakage, which is why it’s a popular hair ingredient. This oil can promote circulation to the scalp, which improves hair growth, resulting in stronger hair.

Moreover, argan oil repairs damage caused by chemicals and heat from a hair dryer or straightener. 

Nail and Cuticle Care

The nail and cuticle are not left out of the amazing benefits of argan oil from Morocco. 

It moisturizes and softens the cuticle, preventing it from drying and cracking. 

In the same way, argan oil hydrates and strengthens the nail bed, supporting healthy nail growth. Because of this, the nails and cuticles will be more resilient to damage from factors like frequent handwashing.

Stretch Mark Reduction

While argan oil can’t eliminate stretch marks, it improves skin elasticity. This reduces the appearance of stretch marks on the body. 

The oleic acids help it fill out and soften stretch marks through deep skin hydration. Some people use argan oil during pregnancy to prevent stretch marks. 

Shaving Protection

Argan oil provides before and after-shave relief. Applying it before shaving eases hair removal and reduces razor bumps. It also gives the skin a boost of moisture after shaving. 

Apart from topical use, you can incorporate argan oil into your meal. You can add it to salad, use it as a bread dip, and drizzle it over fruits. 

It is a very healthy oil that contains unsaturated fatty acids, which makes argan oil good for the heart. Similarly, it’s a rich source of vitamin E, which is useful for healthy skin, hair, and eyes. 

But culinary argan oil is a bit different from cosmetic argan oil. Though both contain the same nutrients, the difference lies in the seed processing. 

The argan kernels are first roasted before extraction for the culinary oil. This makes the cosmetic argan oil have a slightly lighter shade.

Despite its benefits, argan oil is not suitable for use as a cooking oil or for baking. That’s because it loses its healthy fats and flavor when heated above 60 degrees Celsius. 

Also Read: The Benefits of Pulses Food for You and the Environment

Absolute Liquid Gold

The versatile uses of argan oil cater to every part of the body. No wonder products like serums, conditioners, shampoos, masks, and even balms contain it. 

What more? It’s good for your health. The Argan oil from Morocco is truly an embodiment of gold in liquid form.