Vegetable Argan Oil (Argan Oil)

Argania spinosa, known as Argan, is a perennial, woody tree of the Sapotaceae family that originates exclusively from southwestern Morocco. Argan is known as "liquid gold" mainly for the oil extracted from its fruits, which is particularly rich in bioactive compounds with beneficial properties for both health and the care of skin and hair.

Botanical description:

• Family: Sapotaceae
• Genus: Argania
• Species: Argania spinosa
• Height: The tree can reach a height of 8–10 meters.
• Fruit: The fruit is small and ovoid, containing a hard stone that encloses 1–3 seeds from which the oil is extracted.

Chemical composition

Argan oil is mainly composed of fatty acids:

Argan oil contains tocopherols (vitamin E), phenols, carotenes, squalene and fatty acids (80% unsaturated). The main natural phenols in argan oil are caffeic acid, oleuropein, vanillic acid, tyrosol, catechol, resorcinol, epicatechin and catechin.
Depending on the extraction method, argan oil may be more resistant to oxidation than olive oil.

Properties:

1. Moisturizing and regenerating action: Argan oil is widely used in cosmetology for moisturizing and rejuvenating the skin and hair.
2. Antioxidant action: Tocopherols and phenolic compounds help protect against photoaging and free radicals.
3. Anti-inflammatory properties: The sterols in the oil help reduce inflammation and promote the healing of wounds or skin irritations.
4. Treatment of skin conditions: Traditionally used for the treatment of eczema, acne and psoriasis, due to its soothing and moisturizing properties.

Uses:

Face mask for radiance & hydration

Materials:

• 1 tsp argan oil

• 1 tsp honey

• 1/2 ripe banana

Method: Mash the banana with a fork and add the honey and argan oil. Mix well until you get a uniform blend. Apply to the face for 10–15 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
Ideal for dry and dull skin.

Hair serum for strengthening & shine

Materials:

• 1 tbsp argan oil

• 1 tsp castor oil

• 2 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)

Method: Mix all the ingredients and apply a few drops to the ends of the hair or along the entire length for 1 hour. Then rinse and wash with warm water using a shampoo with natural ingredients.
 It deeply nourishes, reduces breakage and offers natural shine.

Moisturizing & firming body oil with Argan

Materials:

• 2 tbsp argan oil

• 2 tbsp almond oil

• 1 tbsp jojoba or avocado oil

• 6 drops lavender essential oil (relaxation & regeneration)

• 4 drops of geranium or grapefruit essential oil (toning & firming)

Instructions: Mix all the ingredients in a dark 50ml glass bottle and shake well.
Use on damp skin after showering, with gentle circular motions.

Tip: You can enrich the recipe with a few drops of vitamin E for extra antioxidant action.