Argan

Latin Name
Argania spinosa

Herb Class/Action

• Nourishing
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Hepatoprotective

Parts Used

• Seed/kernel oil

Flavors

• Nutty
• Slightly bitter

Energetics

• Cooling
• Moisturizing

Traditional Benefits
Argan oil, sourced from the seeds of the Argania spinosa tree, has been a staple in Moroccan culture for centuries, used both as a food and for its cosmetic and medicinal properties. Traditionally, it is considered fortifying, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective, and it has been used to support conditions such as prediabetes and to promote skin and hair health. The Amazigh people of Morocco have long consumed argan oil as part of their diet, often in the form of amlou, a spread made from argan oil, almond butter, and honey.

Topically, argan oil is widely used for its ability to treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, stretch marks (especially post-pregnancy), dry skin, aging skin, and oily skin. It is also known for promoting hair health, adding shine and strength, and strengthening brittle nails. Argan oil’s rich content of vitamin E, antioxidants (including tocopherols), and fatty acids makes it a popular choice for moisturizing, anti-aging, and anti-sebum treatments for oily skin. The oil’s anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for reducing skin redness and irritation.

Used in both traditional and modern medicine, argan oil has garnered attention for its ability to support overall health. It is rich in squalene, a compound with potential anti-carcinogenic properties, and its high antioxidant content is praised for its potential to fight oxidative stress, which may help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and obesity. However, while many studies support these benefits, further clinical research is needed to confirm its efficacy in humans.

Argan oil has also found a place in Ayurveda, where it is used to balance vata and pitta doshas. For vata imbalances, it is used to treat dry skin, wrinkles, fatigue, and frizzy hair. For pitta imbalances, it is recommended for conditions like acne, skin inflammation, and microbial infections.

Key Constituents

• Fatty acids: Oleic, linoleic, stearic, and palmitic acids
• Triterpenes: Squalene
• Sterols
• Vitamin E
• Carotenoids
• Phenolic compounds: Tyrosol, vanillic, ferulic, and syringic acids

Sustainability Issues
Argan trees are native to Morocco and Algeria, where they grow in arid environments. However, the species has faced environmental pressures due to deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable harvesting practices. Efforts to protect and revitalize the argan forests have been ongoing since the 1980s, with the introduction of cooperatives and sustainable harvesting techniques, particularly benefiting rural women. In 1998, UNESCO declared the argan forest a biosphere reserve, signaling global recognition of the tree’s environmental importance.

Harvesting Guidelines
Argan trees begin to bear fruit around 5-6 years of age, with peak production at 60 years. The fruit is typically harvested between July and August, although a second flowering in the fall can extend the harvesting period. The traditional method of harvesting involves collecting fallen fruits, though some regions still use goats to help gather the fruit.

Uses
Argan oil is renowned for its cosmetic uses, especially for skin and hair care. It is an ingredient in anti-aging and moisturizing creams, and it is used for its ability to reduce sebum production on oily skin. The oil is also consumed as a food, often as a dip for bread or in the preparation of amlou, a traditional Moroccan spread. In addition, research has shown that argan oil may have medicinal properties, such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, supporting liver function, and acting as an anti-inflammatory. Its high content of antioxidants and squalene contributes to its therapeutic potential.

In Ayurveda, it is used to balance the vata and pitta doshas, addressing issues like dry skin, wrinkles, acne, and digestive complaints. Argan oil’s antiviral properties have also been explored, particularly in its press cakes, which are used as fodder. Studies suggest that the camphor content in argan fruit pulp could serve as an insect repellent.

Despite facing environmental challenges, the continued use and protection of argan trees are crucial for the preservation of both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of local populations.