Argan Oil

The argan tree grows in the semi-desert landscapes of southwestern Morocco. Its fruit contains a precious kernel used to produce argan oil, a golden liquid prized for centuries in cooking, medicine, and beauty care. Known for its rich aroma and exceptional properties, remains one of the rarest natural oils in the world due to the limited range of the argan tree, protected as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

What does that mean?

Argan oil is a natural plant oil extracted from the nuts of the argan tree (Argania spinosa). Traditionally pressed by hand, this oil has long been used in Moroccan households for both culinary and cosmetic purposes.
The Moroccan government strictly regulates its production and does not allow the export of raw fruit, which makes pure even more valuable.

Composition

Contains a unique balance of nutrients that support both health and beauty:

• Vitamin E
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin F
• Tocopherols
• Polyphenols
• Rare sterols with anti-inflammatory properties
• Polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-6, omega-9)
• Palmitic and stearic acids
• Ferulic acid
• Carotenoids
• Triterpene alcohols
• Natural antioxidant squalene

This exceptional combination makes argan oil one of the most concentrated natural care ingredients known today.

Properties of Argan Oil

Provides a long list of therapeutic and cosmetic benefits:

Therapeutic Uses

It is used to support the treatment of:

• cardiovascular problems
• joint and muscle pain
• rheumatic disorders
• diabetes
• infections
• chickenpox
• digestive discomfort
• inflammatory conditions
• early cognitive decline

Helps regenerate damaged tissue, making it useful for:

• burns
• scars
• abrasions
• wounds
• eczema
• psoriasis
• acne

Cosmetic Uses

Is a favored ingredient for:

• moisturizing and firming skin
• reducing wrinkles
• protecting from environmental stress
• revitalizing dry or damaged hair
• strengthening nails
• nourishing the cuticle
• improving the growth of eyebrows and eyelashes

Main Actions

• regenerating
• moisturizing
• soothing
• anti-inflammatory
• toning
• antioxidant

Benefits of Argan Oil

Contains sterols that support skin health and help block the absorption of harmful cholesterol when combined with oleic acid. Its fatty acids boost immunity and accelerate the body’s natural healing process.

Vitamin E helps maintain healthy heart function and improves the elasticity of blood vessels. Because it absorbs quickly into tissues, is beneficial for people with arthritis and chronic joint pain. Massaging the oil into the body helps tone muscles and slow the signs of aging.

Types of Argan Oil

Comes in three main varieties:

• Culinary (cold-pressed from roasted seeds)
• deep color and rich nutty flavor
• used in Moroccan cuisine
• Cosmetic argan oil (pressed from unroasted seeds)
• lighter color
• higher concentration of active compounds
• Cold-pressed therapeutic (from raw seeds)
• maximum purity
• used for skincare and medicinal purposes

How is it used?

In Cooking

Culinary has a warm aroma of roasted nuts and almonds. It is used to flavor:

• couscous
• fish
• salads
• sauces

A traditional Moroccan specialty called amlou combines almonds, honey, and argan oil. It is typically served with fresh bread for breakfast.

For Hair Care

Restores shine, softness, and strength to dull or damaged hair.

Recipes:

• For softness and shine:
• Apply 1 tsp after washing as a natural conditioner.

• For dandruff: Massage the oil into the scalp for 20 minutes before shampooing.
• For hair loss: Use 1–2 times a week for two months. Apply from roots to ends and leave overnight or 40 minutes before washing.
• For UV protection: Apply 2 tbsp before washing and wrap with a warm towel.

For the Face

Suits all skin types.

For problem skin:

Mix 1 tsp argan oil, 1 tsp almond oil, and 1 tbsp blue clay. Apply twice a week for a month.

For dryness and flaking:

Whip 1 egg white and mix with 1 tbsp argan oil. Leave for 20 minutes.

For the Body

Use it directly on:

• burns
• wounds
• abrasions

For daily skin care, add a few drops to body lotion.

Stretch marks:

Mix 1 tbsp argan oil with 10 drops of tangerine essential oil.

For nails:

Blend argan oil with a few drops of lemon juice and massage into nails and cuticles.

Cosmetics Made With Argan Oil

Organic cosmetics are gentle, natural, and suitable for sensitive skin. They are free from parabens, dyes, and artificial fragrances. Many beauty salons use argan-based products because of their nourishing and repairing qualities.

Hair Mask

Mix:

• 2 tbsp burdock or castor oil
• 1 tsp argan oil

For a moisturizing version, blend:

• 1 tsp argan oil
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 10 drops lavender oil
• 5 drops sage oil
• 1 egg yolk

Face Cream

Can be used alone or added to facial creams. It deeply hydrates and smooths the delicate skin around the eyes.

How to Use and Store Argan Oil

• Warm the bottle in lukewarm water before use to improve absorption.
• Always apply to clean, exfoliated skin.
• Massage gently and remove excess after one hour if needed.
• Store in a dark glass bottle away from sunlight.
• Shelf life: up to 2 years. Longer dates may indicate additives.