A rare and precious commodity, Argan oil has been one of the best kept beauty secrets of Moroccan women for centuries. Although awareness and demand for Argan oil and its many benefits has been on the rise, the industry still remains small and operated by local Moroccan women using traditional methods to extract the oil.
Sourced from the fruit of Argan trees found in the semi-desert region of south-west Morocco, this beautiful golden oil is rich in nutrients like Vitamin A and E, antioxidants and fatty acids that boost health, both within and without. The process includes peeling off the outer layer of the fruit and pounding its inner nut with rocks to retrieve tiny kernels from which the oil is derived.
There are two main varieties of Argan oil; one for culinary purposes and the other for cosmetic use, both of which are equally beneficial. As a result, many cosmetic giants like L’oreal are introducing large quantities of Argan oil into everyday products like skin creams and hair serums. However, according to Dr Neelofur Wajahat, a beauty expert and salon-owner, “The finest results are reaped by using 100% pure and sulphur-free oil as opposed to combining it with other materials. Argan oil is all natural so it produces the best outcomes unadulterated, without any side effects. ”
Argan oil for skin
Argan oil possesses strong anti-ageing properties due to a high concentration of Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Saponins that soften skin. The nutrients restore the water layer in the skin, thereby keeping it hydrated, wrinkle-free and less prone to inflammation. The antioxidants found in the liquid combat skin impurities and thereby, prevent acne. “Not only does it give a non-sticky, moisturised radiance, it also acts as a natural remedy for dry skin, acne, burns, psoriasis and eczema,” explains Dr Wajahat. “I recommend it to clients who suffer from similar skin conditions and it almost always works.” With 200% more Vitamin E than any other oil, this elixir of beauty can even eradicate stretch marks with just a few drops.
Argan oil is now a recurring ingredient in personal care products like creams, lotions and make-up.This includes sun-screen treatments as Argan oil provides a natural shield against UV rays and heat. It can fix cracked heels and cuticles, tone the complexion and adding just a drop or two to your foundation can give you an instant glow. Most importantly, however, the oil is completely safe from external chemicals that can cause skin irritations.
Argan oil for hair
“Argan oil is a one-stop solution for those with dry and frizz-prone hair,” says Lahore-based beautician and makeup artist Eram Rasheed. “The oil is light and non-sticky which makes it great for summers and it keeps the scalp safe from sun-scorching and dehydration.”
There are three main ways in which Argan oil can be used on hair, the first one being as a leave-in conditioner. “After a shower, apply a few drops of Argan oil to your ends and scalp and see the difference,” says Anum Naveed, a fan of the liquid. “It is especially advantageous to those who heat-style their hair regularly.”
Moreover, a few drops of Argan oil can add shine and calm frizz in just seconds, eliminating the need for chemical hair products. One can also apply the oil over the head and leave it on overnight for a deep conditioning treatment. “I would advise wrapping your hair in a warm towel and going to bed. In the morning, wash it off and enjoy soft and luminous hair,” suggests Anum. Dr Wajahat agrees, saying that, “Argan oil is the best natural conditioner.”
Argan oil for health
When Argan oil is being used in cuisine, the kernels derived from the fruit are roasted prior to grinding which affords a delicious, nutty flavour to the oil. Roasted kernels offer a larger quantity of oil than unroasted ones which explains why culinary Argan oil is less expensive than its cosmetic counterpart.
Preliminary studies indicate that Argan oil may offer cardiac benefits much like those of olive oil. For example, Dr Charrouf at Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco, conducted a study which showed lower cholesterol levels in 152 subjects that ingested five teaspoons of Argan oil daily. Another study from the Journal of Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases 2005, examined 60 males who were fed Argan oil during breakfast for three weeks. It found an increase in enzymes that prevent oxidative damage that leads to heart diseases. Nonetheless, studies remain inconclusive thus far.
Regardless, Argan oil can be a delicious add on to any salad or pasta and since it is completely pure, there can be no possible side effects of consuming it. The nutty flavour will only boost the taste. However, it must be noted that the healthy properties might be lost due to heating so it is best drizzled over your plate after it.
Argan oil in Pakistan
Since Argan trees are specific to Morocco, Argan oil must be imported by most countries if they wish to acquire it. In Pakistan, it is available at most specialist cosmetic stores, starting at a price of roughly Rs 1,500 for a 30ml bottle.
Fact:
It takes approximately 20 hours of labour and 20 kilograms of Argan fruit to produce one litre of Argan oil through traditional extraction methods.
Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, June 8th, 2014.
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Wow thank you for an informative article.