The History and Uses of Argan Oil

Argan oil is a very rare commodity that originates from the argan tree grown in the southwest desert of Morocco. It has become very popular around the world in the past decade. It is mainly used in two very different ways. First of all, the oil is used as a gourmet delight because of its nutty flavor and apparent health benefits. Secondly, it is used as a powerful ingredient in many health and beauty products. It is rich in vitamin E and contains many antioxidants. In fact, the Berbers who populate this region of Morocco have been using the oil for hundreds of years, and it has been particularly valuable in protecting and conditioning hair and skin.

The Berbers have also used the wood of the argan tree as a source for charcoal, firewood and building material. However, the women's cooperative that produces and markets the argan oil has established an ecosystem reforestation project so that these trees will be protected. So, the trees are no longer being used in this way. In fact, the growing popularity of the oil in beauty products can be traced to the deliberate marketing of the oil that has spawned new economic growth for the poor Berber region of Morocco.

The Berber people still use the oil for themselves, but the growth of this industry has been quite remarkable.

Producing the Oil

The extraction of the oil from the almond inside the argan tree fruit is sometimes done by hand, but more recently has become a more automated process.

The hand extraction process is very time consuming. The fruit is opened and the almonds are taken from the inside pulp. These almonds are then allowed to dry in the sun. The dried almonds are then broken open with rocks or stones. The seeds are then removed, and ground into a thick paste. The paste is then processed or squeezed to produce the oil. If the oil is to be used in cuisine, the dried almonds are toasted prior to breaking them open. This brings out the nutty flavor in the oil.

The oil has a variety of uses and contains overwhelming numbers of health and beauty benefits. This is true when it is added to a healthy diet, and when it is applied directly to the skin, hair and nails.

Health benefits

The roasted oil can be added to dishes much like you would add olive oil. It has been widely published that argan oil can positively impact an individual's cholesterol levels, and its anti-inflammatory properties also show an improvement in cardiovascular health and arthritis. Unlike other oils, this oil contains sterols, which helps block the cholesterol absorption from intestines. Sterols have also been reported to be anti-cancerous.

In addition to the healthful benefits of adding this oil to a diet, it has also been reported that using it as massage oil for individuals with arthritis helps relieve their symptoms. And, it has shown a positive impact on chicken pox and acne, which is linked to its powerful anti-inflammatory abilities. Because of those abilities, it is also a product that can minimize the pain and scarring of burns or other abrasions.

The Argan secret of beauty

The introduction of this oil into the cosmetic and beauty industry has been expansive. Because of the multiple benefits experienced by the Moroccan people for hundreds of years, the modern marketplace is taking advantage of this ingredient and marketing it to a worldwide audience.

The oil has an incredible impact on skin. It can be used as an all over moisturizer; it protects against sun damage, prevents stretch marks, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and revitalizes the skin to bring out its most youthful look.

It also does wonderful things for hair. It conditions, restores shine, bounce and manageability. It provides a barrier between the hair and many environmental stressors including the sun and dry air. It can repair and smooth the hair cuticle when it has been damaged by the environment or by heat-styling techniques. The oil serves as a barrier between the hair and future heat styling as well. When used as a hair conditioner, the oil is absorbed easily and provides a sleek and healthy style without a heavy or greasy appearance.

This oil also does wonders for nails and cuticles. It is popping up in various manicure products, because the oil revitalizes and returns a youthful look to the hands. It also encourages the growth of healthy nails.

The variety of uses of argan oil has helped it reach a kind of super stardom, and this interest and demand for the product seems to have provided the Berber people with a successful global trading opportunity.

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