What is Argan Oil?
L "argan (Argania spinosa or Argania sideroxylon) is a tree widespread in the arid landscapes that characterize the southwest of Morocco. Despite the scarcity of water in the subsoil, the Argania is a very long-lived tree that can reach up to 150-200 years of age.
This precious oil is endowed with numerous properties, exploited both in the food and in the cosmetics field. In fact, it is capable of improving the hydration of the skin and, consequently, it is able to increase its defenses and elasticity. However, we remind you that all products based on oil / water emulsions, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, are suitable for this purpose. , ceramides and hygroscopic substances, that is, capable of absorbing and retaining water.
Production
The production of Argan oil requires a laborious process that until recently was entirely done by hand.
The most laborious operation consists in the initial removal of the pulp (destined to feed the cattle) and in the subsequent extraction of the leathery walnut contained in the fruit. The resistance of this shell is broken by the pressure of two stones that crush the walnut releasing the seeds contained therein.
The next step involves a slow drying which must be carried out at moderate temperatures. Subsequently, with the help of a rotary stone similar to the millstones used for the production of "olive oil ("arzeg"in the local language), we proceed with the grinding of the seeds. Everything is then mixed with cold water in order to facilitate the extraction of oil.
The obtained paste is then mixed and subjected to manual pressing which produces the fall of oil droplets emulsified in water.
However, since the commercial interest in Argan oil has grown, mechanical presses have been introduced that accelerate the production process, also improving the conservation and quality of the product (thus avoiding the addition of water during grinding). The initial skinning and subsequent crushing of the walnut, on the other hand, continues to be carried out manually.
Features
The natural roasting process gives Argan oil a strong toasted aroma and a particular flavor that closely resembles that of hazelnut. The color is slightly darker than olive oil.
Depending on whether the kernels are roasted or not before use, Argan oil can be used in both cosmetics and food.
Diet
Properties of Argan Oil as a food
Fats in foods are classified into three large groups called saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated, respectively.
In animal fats, solid at room temperature, saturated fats abound, while oils are richer in mono and polyunsaturated.
The following table shows the nutritional values of Argan oil and olive oil.
PROFILE
LIPID
Argan oil
Olive oil
From a nutritional point of view, Argan oil follows the characteristics of our olive oil. Thanks to this similarity, it incorporates all the benefits of the typical condiment of the Mediterranean diet. Argan oil therefore helps to keep the levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) under control. Its health properties are also reinforced by the "abundant presence of antioxidants, such as the precious tocopherols (vitamin E). The only negative note concerns the low content of alpha linolenic acid (omega-3), a characteristic which is also common to" oil d " olive.
Thanks to the reduced content of polyunsaturated fatty acids it keeps quite well and, were it not for the high cost, it could also be used for frying. The reduced yield and the laborious manufacturing process contribute to raise the price.
Currently, the cost of Argan oil is much higher than that of olive oil, so much so that it reaches and exceeds 50 euros per liter.
Cosmetic Properties
The cosmetic properties (and not only) of Argan oil have been known by African peoples since ancient times. Not surprisingly, the tree from which this precious substance is obtained is also called the "tree of life".
In detail, unlike that used for food purposes, Argan oil intended for use in cosmetics is not roasted, but is cold pressed. This manufacturing process allows to obtain a more limpid and clear oil than the food one.
Given its rich and particular composition, argan oil has several properties that make it a useful and precious cosmetic ingredient. These include:
- Antioxidant properties;
- Elasticizing properties;
- Moisturizing and emollient properties.
The aforesaid properties are attributable both to the numerous mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids present within the same oil, and to its unsaponifiable fraction which contains vitamin E, triterpene alcohols, sterols, carotene and xanthophyllins.
Uses
The cosmetic properties of argan oil can be exploited in various ways in the cosmetic field, in order to bring benefits to different parts of the body.
In fact, Argan oil can have multiple uses:
- A few drops of oil applied directly on the skin or in bath water are enough to give the skin brightness and softness.
- Thanks to its excellent antioxidant content, Argan oil helps protect the skin from external aggressions (sun, smog, wind, heavy metals, various pollutants including toxic substances inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin). However, it should be pointed out that - although it can help protect the skin from the harmful action of UV radiation - the use of Argan oil alone CANNOT in any way replace sunscreens.
- Again thanks to its strong antioxidant activity, Argan oil has anti-aging and anti-wrinkle properties.
- It can be used to make compresses on damp hair that suffers from fragility and weakness.At the same time, a few drops of Argan oil massaged into the scalp could help relieve the dandruff disorder.
- In association with sweet almond oil, Argan oil can also be used for the prevention of stretch marks during pregnancy.
- Thanks to its moisturizing and emollient properties, this oil is useful for preventing and counteracting any post-depilation and post-epilation skin irritation.
- In association with lemon juice, Argan oil can be used as a lotion against flaking and breaking of brittle nails.
- Finally, Argan oil can also be used to perform hot or cold massages in order to relax and "loosen" contracted muscles.
Buying Guide
There are numerous cosmetic and personal care products that boast the presence of Argan oil in their composition, such as anti-wrinkle and non-wrinkle creams, shampoos, various detergents, make-up products, etc.
However, if you intend to exploit all the properties of Argan oil, it is advisable to use it pure. In this regard, it is very important not to be deceived at the time of purchase, taking care to check and make sure that in the list of ingredients only the name of "Argan oil appears and not that of many other substances, as unfortunately occurs in many products. In detail, in the INCI nomenclature," Argan oil corresponds to the wording "Argania spinosa Kernel oil'.
Argan oil online
Argan oil from Morocco is available online, a precious liquid that comes from the vast forests of the Argan region. Useful for hydrating body and hair, the oil can be used on the skin as a moisturizer: just apply a few drops of the product on the skin to soften it, make it brighter and protect it from aggressive external agents. For hair care, however, it is advisable to add a few drops of product on the hair after a shower or before combing them to make them shiny, soft and voluminous.
Alternatively, you can buy 100% pure fair trade organic argan oil from organically grown. It is extracted from the seeds of the argan tree by means of a delicate cold pressing method. The purity of the oil is indicated by its intense nutty aroma, characteristic of argan seeds. This aroma is preserved thanks to the renunciation of the use of additives, fragrances and chemicals during the extraction process.
Rich in vitamin E, valuable unsaturated fatty acids and protective polyphenols, this product is the perfect natural moisturizer for hair, skin and nails. The use of high quality violet glass bottles make the product impermeable to the wavelengths of light, helping to extend the expiration of nutrients, vitamins and other precious ingredients, thus preserving the effectiveness of the product.
Side effects
Normally, Argan oil is well tolerated and does not cause any type of side effect, except in cases of sensitive individuals in which it can cause the onset of allergic reactions.
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