Argan oil is one of the latest and most popular oil essences known to people today. Although it is a very rare one, its popularity can be considered unceasing. It is extracted from the argan tree that are naturally found and grown in the southwest desert parts of Morocco. It has become widely known within the last decade because of its two main uses: it is used as cooking oil and as an ingredient to various beauty and health products.
As cooking oil, it is known for its rich nutty flavor and various health benefits. Thus, most prefer it over regular cooking oils that are regularly available in grocery stores. Meanwhile, it is also used as a main ingredient for several beauty products as it is rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants. As a matter of fact, people of Morocco had been using the oil extract from the Argan tree for centuries as it is also believed to provide valuable efficiency in conditioning and protecting the hair and skin.
How is the oil produced?
Argan oil extraction can be done by hand. The oil is basically extracted from the almond that can be seen inside the fruit of the argan tree. Although the oil can be extracted by hand, technology has already allowed automated extraction of the oil.
Extracting the oil by hand can prove to be really time-consuming. The fruit must be opened and then the almonds are taken from the pulp inside. The almonds will be then left dry under the sun. The dried almonds will be broken into parts with the use of stones. When the seeds are removed, it will be ground until it creates a thick paste. This paste from the seed will be squeezed for the oil to be produced.
Meanwhile, if the oil is intended to be used for cooking, the almonds will be first toasted before it is broken open to accumulate the seeds. Toasting the almonds will allow the nutty flavor to come out.
Argan oil has a variety of uses and it provides a significant number of health and beauty benefits. This will be experienced better if directly used in cooking and when applied to the hair, nails, and skin.
What are the health benefits of argan tree oil?
Argan oil, when used in dishes like you would olive oil, is known to positively affect a person’s cholesterol levels. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits which help in the improvement of cardiovascular health and alleviates the effects of arthritis. Unlike other oils that are regularly found in the market, argan oil has the substance sterols. These help block cholesterol from being absorbed by the intestines. The substance is also reported to be anti-cancer.
When it comes to beauty and skin care, the argan tree oil is noted for being a good skin moisturizer. It can protect the skin from sun damage. It is also known to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and prevents stretch marks. It also makes for a great hair conditioner and hair damage repair.