Imagine a fruit so nourishing that goats will climb trees just to eat it. This is argan. Inside this small fruit lies the seed that gives us the precious oil, used as a dietary supplement over the years. These trees grow slowly and are so revered that in 1998, the Argan Forest in Morocco was declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO.
People around the world have benefited from the numerous advantages of argan oil to treat skin infections, insect bites, or rashes. It is very effective in hydrating hair and skin, being rich in vitamins A and E, antioxidants, fatty acids, omega-6, and linoleic acid. Research shows that when applied to the skin, it reduces inflammation while hydrating the skin.
The oil is considered very beneficial for rheumatic conditions or arthritis. The flavonoids present in argan oil have strong anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat both external and internal issues, including pain relief. Argan oil contains a high level of triterpenoids, especially butyrospermol, biologically active compounds that are well known for their anti-inflammatory benefits. The high content of linoleic acid increases the production of prostaglandins, known to help with rheumatological conditions.
For pain relief in muscles and joints, massage a few drops of pure argan oil onto the affected areas.
Argan oil contains organic compounds that, when added to food, increase the concentration of pepsin in the body’s gastric juices, thus improving digestion. Pepsin is an important enzyme in gastric juice that digests proteins found in meat, eggs, or dairy products. Better digestion means more energy, less hunger, weight loss, and a healthier body.
Many studies have been conducted on the ability of argan oil to fight cancer and other diseases. The high levels of antioxidants in the oil help protect the skin from free radicals that can lead to skin cancer. Studies have examined the power of argan oil to combat colon and bladder cancers, prostate cancer, as well as cancerous growths in the body, which can result from infections or inflammation.
When applied externally, the tocopherol in vitamin E helps stimulate cell production while nourishing the skin. This is why cosmetic companies include it in anti-aging products or those for hair care. It is true that argan oil is expensive, but with just a drop or two, you can nourish your skin throughout the day, absorbing quickly without leaving it greasy.
In a 2017 study by the Department of Dermatology at the Medical University of Vienna, a group using argan oil as part of their regular skincare routine for 30 days showed significant improvement in skin hydration compared to a group using commercial cosmetic treatments.
Since moisture loss is one of the main reasons for skin aging, the results are amazing when the skin is hydrated, losing less collagen and being better protected from sun, heat, cold, or wind. Researchers also discovered that skin could lose more water without drying out, meaning it is not just a cosmetic effect but also a real change at the cellular level.
Argan oil has been shown to reduce sebum levels in people with oily skin. Chemical creams can be expensive and, in the long run, do more harm than good. Argan oil, with its high linoleic acid content, helps reduce inflammation caused by acne, while also healing damaged skin cells and scarring.
If you have dry or cracked heels, apply two drops and massage them in. Put on a pair of socks and leave them on for at least 20 minutes, or preferably overnight. Before bathing, use a cloth soaked in warm water to clean your feet. There is a risk of slipping.
