
Argan oil has been a culinary staple in Morocco for centuries, not only for its subtle nutty taste but also because of its wide variety of possible health benefits. This naturally occurring plant oil is obtained from the fruit kernels of the argan tree. While native to Morocco, argan oil is now used worldwide for cooking, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes. In today’s post, we will share with you 12 reasons to start using argan oil immediately.
1. Moisturize Skin and Hair
Oleic and linoleic acids, which make up the bulk of the fat content of argan oil, are essential nutrients for the preservation of healthy skin and hair. Argan oil is mostly applied directly to the skin and hair but may also be beneficial when consumed. In one study, both oral and topical usage of argan oil increased the moisture levels of the skin in post-menopausal women. While there is no specific research on the use of argan oil for hair health, some studies suggest that other plant oils with a similar nutritional profile can prevent split ends and other types of hair damage.
2. Boost Heart Health
Argan oil is a potent source of oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fat. Oleic acid is also found in a variety of other ingredients, including avocado and olive oils, and has heart-protective effects. A small human study showed that argan oil was superior to olive oil in its ability to decrease the risk of heart attack by affecting the levels of antioxidants in the blood. In a heart disease risk analysis of 40 healthy individuals, those who consumed 15 grams of argan oil every day for 30 days observed an overall 16% and a 20% drop in bad LDL and triglyceride levels, respectively.
3. Argan Oil Benefits for Diabetes
Certain early animal research suggests that argan oil can help avoid diabetes. Two experiments resulted in a substantial decrease in both fasting blood sugar and insulin resistance in mice fed a high sugar diet in addition to argan oil. These findings have generally attributed these gains to the antioxidant content of the oil. However, these observations do not necessarily mean the same consequences will be observed in humans. Human testing is required.
4. Reduce Signs of Skin Aging
Argan oil has rapidly become a common ingredient in many cosmetic products. Some research indicates that dietary intake of argan oil can help to slow down aging by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. It may also facilitate the restoration and preservation of healthy skin when applied directly to the skin, thereby reducing the visual signs of aging.
5. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
The numerous phenolic compounds in argan oil are possibly responsible for much of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Argan oil is high in vitamin E, or tocopherol, a fat-soluble vitamin that functions as a powerful antioxidant to decrease the adverse effects of free radicals. Other compounds present in argan oil, such as plant sterols, CoQ10, and melatonin, also perform antioxidant functions.
6. Treat Some Skin Conditions
Argan oil has typically been used both orally and topically to promote the health of the skin, hair, and nails. It contains a variety of different advantageous effects and vitamins that create an effective combination to improve the health of the skin. Argan oil has always been a common home remedy for the treatment of inflammatory skin problems for decades, especially in North Africa where argan trees grow. While there is little scientific evidence to support the ability of argan oil to treat certain skin infections, it is still widely used for this purpose. Recent studies indicate that argan oil contains a variety of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, which may be the reason why it helps to treat skin tissue.
7. Treat and Prevent Stretch Marks
Argan oil is sometimes used to eliminate and reduce stretch marks, but no testing has been done to show its effectiveness. There is no clear evidence that any form of topical cream is an effective method for minimizing stretch marks. A study does show, though, that argan oil can help minimize inflammation and increase skin elasticity, which may explain why so many people claim satisfaction in using it for stretch marks.
8. Treat Acne
Some reports say that argan oil is an effective cure for acne, but this is not confirmed by credible clinical studies. That said, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory argan oil compounds can help in reducing redness and skin irritation, which is mostly caused by acne. The oil can also lead to skin hydration, which is essential for the prevention of acne.
9. Reduce Skin’s Oiliness
Most of us have skin that is naturally oilier than others. Those who seek to get rid of the oily glow can benefit from the sebum-reducing abilities of argan oil. It helps minimize overall sebum and reduce the oiliness of the skin. One study showed that using a cream containing argan oil twice daily can significantly reduce sebum activity and oiliness in just four weeks.
10. Promote Wound Healing
Antioxidants are certainly a strong factor. A good mixture of antioxidants and vitamin E present in argan oil can help treat wounds and cuts quickly.
You should take argan oil supplements daily to enjoy this effect in the body. Argan oil can enhance the healing of wounds. One animal study shows a substantial improvement in wound healing in rats given argan oil on second-degree burns twice daily for two weeks. However, this evidence cannot confirm anything with certainty; it does suggest the potential role of argan oil in wound healing and tissue repair.
11. Contains Essential Nutrients
Argan oil is mostly composed of fatty acids and several phenolic compounds. Most of the fat present in argan oil originates from oleic and linoleic acid. About 29% to 36% of the fatty acid content of argan oil is extracted from linoleic acid or omega-6, making it a strong source of this essential nutrient. Oleic acid, while not necessary, accounts for 43% to 49% of the fatty acid content of argan oil and is therefore quite beneficial. Oleic acid, also present in olive oil, is known for its beneficial effect on heart health.
Besides, argan oil is rich in vitamin E, which is essential for healthy skin, hair, and eyes. This vitamin also has potent antioxidant effects.
12. Easy to Add to Your Routine
As argan oil has become more popular, it’s simpler than ever before to add to your health and beauty routines. It is readily available in most large food shops, pharmacy stores, and online retailers.
Argan oil benefits for cooking, cosmetic, and medical uses for decades. It is high in vital nutrients, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory agents. Early evidence suggests that argan oil can help prevent chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. It can also be used to treat several skin disorders. While current studies cannot clearly say that argan oil benefits in treating all of these disorders, many people experience desirable results after using it.
If you’re interested in argan oil, it’s easy to find and begin using it today. Will you start using argan oil after reading this post? Please let me know in the comment section below. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share. Stay healthy!