WHAT IS ARGAN OIL AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
WHAT IS ARGAN OIL AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
The Argan tree grows in the calcareous soils of southwest Morocco, whose reputation has spread all over the world. Argan oil is produced from the argan tree fruits and it is used as a main ingredient in kitchens and cosmetics. Argan oil, also known as "liquid gold", is mainly used in hair, beard and skin care.
Argan tree is a mediterranean plant and it is grown only near to Mediterranean and Aegean coasts in Turkey with small quantities. Its leaves are similar to olive tree leaves. Argan tree fruits ripen in two years. Approximately one liter of oil is obtained from 40 kilograms of argan fruits which are dried after ripening. These precious fruits which are produced in a difficult way, are rich in vitamin E and also contain precious oils such as Omega 9 and Omaga 6.*
Argan oil, which refinde for gastronomic use, is distinguished from other oils through its dark yellow color and fluid structure. Argan oils, which are prepared for cosmetic purposes and obtained by cold press method are lighter golden yellow in color and clear. It is quickly absorbed after applied to skin. It has no pungent odor.
What Are the Benefits of Argan Oil?
Argan oil is antisebum effective. Reduces acne formation by preventing excess sebum secretion in oily skins. (1)
Argan oil is effective in providing skin elasticity.(2)
Many benefits of Argan oil have been proven by scientific researches. For more comprehensive information on the benefits of Argan oil, we recommend you to take advantage of scientific researches.
How to Obtain Argan Oil?
Argan tree has a small and oval fruit. The kernel of the fruit creates 25% of the fruit. The coring process of argan kernels can be done before of after drying fruits. To reach the pulp of the fruit the kernels need to be cracked. After this stage, argan oil is produced by two different methods depending on the purpose of use. For gastronomic use, the pulp of argan fruit is first roasted and then refined. For usage in cosmetic area, argan oil is produced by cold press method from the collected fruit pulp. To learn more information about how herbal oils are obtained you can read our article "Herbal Oil Production Method".
What are the Usage Areas of Argan Oil?
Argan oil, which is known as liquid gold, is frequently used in make-up cleanser, skin brightener, cuticle softener, lip softener, crack preventive and hair styling products.
How to Use Argan Oil?
Argan oil can be used to prepare hair mask. Argan oil can be used singly or mixed with other oils (for example coconut oil or castor oil). It can be applied by massaging the hair and scalp. It can be also used by adding to the shampoo. It can be even used as a conditioner or hair styler without rinsing.
By applying it to slightly moist skin, you can lock the moisture into your skin. You can apply it by gently massaging your cleansed skin and let it be absorbed.
References;
- 1. Monfalouti, H. E., et al. (2010). Therapeutic potential of argan oil: a review. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 62(12), 1669‐1675.
- 2. Boucetta et al. (2015). The effect of dietary and/or cosmetic argan oil on postmenopausal skin elasticity.Clinical interventions in aging, 10, 339.