For a very long period, the Berbers of Morocco have been using Argan oil in their day to day lives. And despite the advent of modern synthetic substitutes for the oil, they continue to use it today. Its relatively low cost and quick availability are some of the factors that have seen to this continued usage of the product. On the other hand, the numerous benefits derived from Moroccan Argan oil have also ensured that the product continues to be used today as frequently as it was used over 100 years ago.
It contains vitamin E which promotes cardiovascular, prostate and breast health and is helpful to menopausal women. It also contains phenol and phenolic acid which are important anti-ageing agents. The Oleic and Linoleic acid contained in the oil help lower the risk of heart disease. It has also been found to be useful in the treatment of aching rheumatic joints, painful muscles and/or sports injuries.
As a hair product, Moroccan oil helps to moisturize, strengthen and soften hair making it perfect for use in the hot-oil treatment of hair. Recent scientific studies have shown that as well as promoting hair growth, it also prevents loss of hair. In fact, it can be used as a substitute for hair gel. Pour two or three drops on your comb instead of the gel are enough to reduce the frizziness without the drying effect common in other hair products. It has also the ability strengthens brittle and damaged hair, too.
Some of the contents found in it are quite unique and cannot be found in any other product out there. Schottenol and spinasterol, other than being important in prevention of cancer, also prevent cholesterol from being absorbed in the intestines. No other product has this unique ability.
This product contains a very high amount of Squalene. Squalene is an anti-oxidant produced in the skin. This means that if it is applied on the skin, it is absorbed by the skin preventing oxidation and thus activation of chemicals harmful to the body. This makes it a moisturiser preventing dry skin. Squalene is also an important ingredient to some vaccines. When used in food together with vitamin E, Squalene reduces the rate at which body cells die.
Other than moisturising the skin, Moroccan Argan oil is useful in the treatment of psoriasis (a condition that causes irritation and reddening of the skin), acne, eczema (a skin disorder that causes excessive pain and rashes), stretch marks, and brittle nails. It also softens the cuticles as well as scars left by old wounds.
In foods, it can also be used as a salad dressing together with or without lime juice. The oil has the flavour of nuts and can be used as a finishing touch for many cooked foods and roasted vegetables. It is important to note that one should not use one bottle of Moroccan Argan oil interchangeably. The product designated for use as a hair product is slightly different in composition from that used for culinary purposes.