Argan Oil

Argan Tree

This oil has become familiar to us, yet it has long remained the beauty secret of Moroccan women. It is extracted from the fruit of the argan tree, a tree that grows mainly in southwestern Morocco, by cold pressing its almonds (small seeds). The Berbers traditionally applied this oil to their faces to protect themselves from the harsh desert wind. They also used it to treat cardiovascular diseases.

The Argan Fruit

The argan tree produces small, oval-shaped fruits that change color from green to yellow and eventually brown when ripe. The argan fruit resembles an olive but is larger and rounder. Inside the hard nut of the fruit are up to three seeds, from which argan oil is extracted.

Producing argan oil is a labor-intensive process. Seven fully productive argan trees are needed to produce just one liter of oil. This rarity is why argan oil is often referred to as "desert gold."

Argan Oil

Argan oil, used both for culinary and cosmetic purposes, is prepared following rigorous and ancestral protocols passed down through generations. Historically, every step—from harvesting the fruit to extracting the oil—was performed manually by women.

Since 1996, cooperatives have introduced semi-mechanized methods to reduce the physical burden and improve the sanitary quality of the oil while maintaining traditional techniques. Despite this modernization, producing one liter of oil still requires approximately 20 hours of labor.

For food-grade oil, the seeds are first roasted, giving the oil its characteristic hazelnut aroma.

Today, argan oil is renowned far beyond Morocco, gaining popularity in Europe, the U.S., and Japan. It is valued as a pure, natural, and unaltered product that combines health benefits with culinary and cosmetic versatility.

Argan Oil Technical Data

Common Name: Argan Oil
Tree of Origin: Argan Tree (Argania spinosa)
Botanical Family: Sapotaceae
Country of Origin: Southwestern Morocco
Part Used: Kernels (argan nuts)
Oxidative Stability: Resistant to oxidation

Characteristics:

• Texture: Smooth, light, and fine
• Taste: Nutty, reminiscent of roasted hazelnuts
• Color: Yellow
• Odor: Sweet, plant-specific (from cold-pressed oil)

Average Fatty Acid Composition:

• Saturated Fatty Acids:
  • Palmitic Acid: 10.0–15.0%
  • Stearic Acid: 4.0–7.0%
• Unsaturated Fatty Acids:
  • Oleic Acid: 40.0–55.0%
  • Linoleic Acid: 25.0–40.0%

Production and Storage

Production:

• Extracted via first cold pressing (below 60°C) without solvents or chemicals.
• Food-grade oil includes an additional roasting step for a nutty flavor.

Storage:

• Before Opening: Store away from light and heat (below 20°C) in a dry place.
• After Opening: Keep in the original packaging, sealed tightly, and away from light. Store at 20°C with minimal exposure to air (e.g., inert gas like nitrogen can be used).

Properties and Uses

Cosmetic Benefits:

Argan oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and sterols, which:

• Prevent skin dryness and aging.
• Restore the skin's hydrolipidic film.
• Neutralize free radicals and protect connective tissues.

Common Applications:

• For Skin: Hydrates, nourishes, and revitalizes skin. Suitable for anti-aging, scar treatment, and soothing irritation.
• For Hair: Softens, strengthens, and adds shine. Treats split ends and frizziness.
• For Nails: Strengthens brittle nails and moisturizes cuticles.
• For Healing: Soothes burns, scars, and irritated skin.

Practical Tip: Mix argan oil with essential oils like lavender or ylang-ylang for enhanced skincare.

Nutritional Benefits

Argan oil can also be consumed and used in cooking (e.g., in salad dressings). It provides numerous health benefits:

• Reduces cholesterol.
• Prevents cardiovascular risks and type 2 diabetes.
• Improves liver and brain cell functions.

Consumption Tip: Take one tablespoon daily or use it in dishes as a seasoning.

Precautions

• Do not heat argan oil to preserve its properties.
• Store in the refrigerator after opening to maintain freshness.

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