Argan oil benefits have been celebrated in the beauty industry over the last couple of decades. Argan oil is found within the kernels inside each fruit (or nut). In Morocco it is used as a foodstuff. Now, it is being harvested for cosmetics, skincare and hair care, and is exported around the world.
A thorny, evergreen tree with small, green, lanceolate leaves. It can reach heights of up to 10 meters and lives approximately 150 – 200 years. The fruit has a green, fleshy exterior like an olive, but larger and rounder. Inside, there is a nut with an extremely hard shell, which in turn contains one two or three almond-shaped kernels. A thin, fleshy and hard to peel layer surrounds the nut. The fruits of the Argan can take up to one year to ripen. The seeds contain valuable edible oil rich in essential fatty acids. The Argan tree is found only in Morocco and is the second most common tree in the country. It grows wild and profusely in the area extending from Safi to the fringes of the Sahara and bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Atlas Mountains to the east.
A botanical rarity in danger
Today, the survival of Argan groves is due to the use of its oil. The Argan forest now covers less than one million hectares. Unfortunately, in less than a decade, more than a third of the forest has disappeared and its average density has declined from 100 to 30 trees per hectare. Researchers agree that without aggressive intervention, this national treasure will be lost over the next 20 years
The Argan tree bears fruit according to its age, the density of the tree population, the environment, and the amount of rainfall. One hectare of Argan trees can produce 800 kilos of ripe fruit, which will later yield 40 kilos of nuts. These 40 kilos of nuts produces about 18 liters of Argan oil.
Extraction of Argan oil is quite difficult. First the fleshy fruit needs to be removed from the nut. The nut then needs to be cracked to find the kernels . The kernels are then pressed to release oil which is then filtered.
The tree itself helps to prevent desertification and soil erosion. Its root system can search for water 30 meters below the earth’s surface. Its roots have a symbiotic relationship with microscopic mushrooms which deliver nutrients to the roots while the roots provide the moisture that enables the mushrooms to live. The process is called “mycorization”.
It provides food and shelter to local communities. The leaves and fruit are used as animal feed. It also supports around 2.2 million people in the major production area, the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve predominantly through women’s cooperatives.
Numerous women’s Argan oil cooperatives have been established in Morocco over the past decade thus providing employment opportunities for women inhabiting the Argan forest area. Argan oil cooperatives have thus operated as tools of empowerment to women both individually and collectively.
Brands like UpCircle also believe that the kernels of each nut can be used more effectively and sustainably – hence the brand uses the discarded Argan shells in its moisturiser. It’s a wonderful example of upcycling within the skincare industry.
Argan oil benefits
Argan oil is deep golden oil, often with a reddish tinge. It is lighter in weight than nut oils and olive oils, having a weight and body similar to seed oils like sesame or pumpkin, but with a memorable flavour. Argan oil is believed to have strong anti-oxidative properties, especially those that affect the skin. The oil is often used to combat the physiological aging and drying of skin; to neutralise free radicals and conjunctive tissue; to promote softer and stronger hair; and to strengthen breaking and unhealthy nails. Argan oil is rich in naturally occurring antioxidants such as flavonoids and tocopherols. Undoubtedly it is the presence of these antioxidants, which explains the oil’s reputation for skin protection and healing. They are also responsible for the oil’s good storage stability and lack of aging.
Argan oil helps to regulate sebum production which helps to control oily skin. This is excellent news for acne sufferers as it has moisturising properties whilst helping to prevent breakouts.
At the same time, Argan oil is rich in omega fatty acids which boost collagen production and aid hydration, making it equally ideal for those who suffer with dry skin and eczema.
These antioxidants are believed to tackle the free radicals our skin is exposed to which contribute to aging, thus giving Argan oil its reputation for helping to prevent the signs of aging. One study found that use of Argan oil on the skin of postmenopausal women increased skin elasticity significantly.
Argan oil also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and other benefits which can help combat the dangerous effects of sunburn. It’s also recommended for healing stretchmarks and scarring and is safe to use in pregnancy. Argan oil is suitable for all skin types. It isn’t just good for those with acne-prone skin, or those with dry skin. It can reliably be used with both.
Source: uicnmed.org, Upcircle Beauty
