Argan

What is Argan?

Argan oil comes from the kernels of the fruit of the argan tree Argania spinosa, native to Morocco and southwestern Algeria. It’s nicknamed “liquid gold” because it’s one of the most expensive vegetable oils in the world. UNESCO even recognizes argan-related practices as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

There are two main types:

1. Culinary/Food-grade argan oil – Virgin, cold-pressed, safe to eat
2. Cosmetic argan oil – For skin, hair, nails. Not for eating

What’s Inside Argan Oil

• Fatty acids: ∼43-49% oleic acid + 29-37% linoleic acid (omega-6). Also palmitic, stearic, linolenic
• Vitamin E/tocopherols: Powerful antioxidant for skin, hair, eyes
• Other compounds: Polyphenols, squalene, triterpene alcohols, carotenoids, melatonin
• Nutrition per tbsp: 72 calories, 8g fat, <1g protein/carbs

Health & Wellness Benefits

Heart & Metabolic: Rich in unsaturated fats. Studies link argan oil to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and better long-term heart health. May help with arterial hypertension, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

Gut Health: Polyphenols and essential fatty acids may support a balanced microbiota, reduce intestinal inflammation, and improve gut barrier integrity. Potential use for IBD, though more research is needed.

Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Helps fight free radicals and inflammation, which is why it’s used for joint pain and oxidative stress.

Skin Benefits

• Moisturizer: Vitamin E helps skin retain water. Common in lotions, soaps
• Sun protection: Antioxidants help protect against free radical damage, burns, and hyperpigmentation
• Skin conditions: Anti-inflammatory properties may reduce symptoms of psoriasis and rosacea
• Acne: Has anti-sebum effects that can regulate oil and calm breakouts

Hair Benefits

• Frizz control & shine: Fatty acids like linoleic and oleic are hydrating without weighing hair down
• Damage prevention: Vitamin E and antioxidants help prevent breakage from free radicals
• Scalp health: Anti-inflammatory properties may help with dandruff, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis
• Hair growth: May enhance cell growth in follicles and reduce inflammation

How to Use Argan Oil

In food – Don’t cook with it; it burns easily. Use it cold:

• Drizzle on couscous, grilled fish, salads
• Dip bread in it, or make amlu/amlou with almonds + honey
• Mix into hummus, rice, or spread on bread

For beauty:

• Hair: Run a few drops through damp hair or on tips to mask split ends
• Skin: Apply directly as moisturizer, or use products containing it
• Nails: Rub into cuticles for hydration