Origin
The oil extracted from the argan fruit nut has been used for centuries by the Berber women of Atlas, for its phytotherapeutic and cosmetic properties. Furthermore, the word “argan” means “Berber almond” in Arabic. This tree which provides a precious oil has become emblematic of Morocco.
Did you know?
The benefits of argan oil were already impressing the Western hemisphere several centuries B.C. thanks to the trading posts along the Atlantic coast of Morocco. This is why the use of argan oil is quite widespread today in Europe, particularly in bodycare and haircare products.
Characteristics
The argan tree is endemic to Morocco with thorny branches, it can live for 200 years and grow up to 10 metres in height. It has a twisted trunk and small green leaves capable of resisting dryness. The fruits that the tree bears are green, they may be of different sizes and different shapes.. As the fruit ripens it gradually becomes brownish-yellow in colour. When you open it up, you find a fleshy pulp with a hard nut containing two to three almonds..
Flowering and harvesting
The argan tree is a tree that loves the heat. Its roots which extend up to 30 metres in depth allow it to withstand very dry climates and extreme drought. The argan tree fruit begins to ripen between April and October. Once harvested and dried, the shell is broken so that the almonds lodged inside can be recovered. The almonds are then pressed to extract the argan oil which contains essential fatty acids. This is the oil used in phytotherapy.
Benefits
Argan oil comprises fatty acids, polyphenols, sterols, vitamin E, carotenoids.
Argan oil:
- Nourishes the skin and hair
Argan oil can also be used externally. It is incorporated into various skincare and haircare products. Its fatty acid content has the capacity to deeply nourish the skin and hair fibre1.
- Helps to combat cellular ageing
The antioxidants contained in argan oil allows it to combat free radicals responsible for the premature ageing of the cells. This oil is therefore naturally anti-ageing1.
- Protects the cardio-vascular system
The fatty acids contained in argan oil allow for the cholesterol levels in the blood to be reduced. It therefore protects the heart by preventing cardio-vascular problems1.
1https://revues.imist.ma/index.php/technolab/article/view/337/314
http://www.wikiphyto.org/wiki/Arganier