Health Benefits of Argan Oil: External and Internal Use
What is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is a rare oil that comes from the nuts of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa). The Argon tree is grown in Western Morocco. The nut contains one to three kernels from which the oil is extracted. The health benefits of argan oil are touted for both their internal and external use.
When taken internally, argan oil is thought to reduce cholesterol, balance digestion, aid in weight loss, ease rheumatism and arthritis pain, stabilize blood sugar and boost the immune system. It is also reported to have aphrodisiac properties.
Among Moroccan women, argan oil is a well-known beauty secret. For hundreds of years it has been utilized externally to balance out oil in skin, open pores, diminish scar tissue, moisturize, reduce fine lines, treat eczema, ease sunburns and decrease redness.
Composition of Argan Oil
Argan oil is 16-20% saturated fats, 45-50% monounsaturated fats, and 32-40% polyunsaturated fats. It contains a high amount of oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid and alpha linolenic acid. Argon oil also has a high level of natural tocopherols, phenols, carotenes, squalenes and essential fatty acids.
How the Oil Works for You
The oleic acid could play a role in regulating or lowering blood cholesterol. The body converts the linoleic acid to produce series 1 prostaglandins. Arachidonic acid converts to series 2 prostaglandins, and the alpha linolenic acid converts to produce series 3 prostaglandins. Prostaglandins work to enhance the immune system and strengthen the body’s natural defense. They also help in clotting blood, stimulating circulation and reducing inflammation.
The tocopherols (vitamin E) are powerful antioxidants that destroy free radicals and fight oxidation. It is useful in preventing damage to the skin. Argan oil is one of the highest naturally occurring sources of vitamin E.
The unsaturated fats help the skin maintain moisture. It also has saponins that soften the skin and help minimize wrinkles.
Research
Research has been carried out on both the internal and external aspects of argan oil. Many companies use the oil in their beauty products since it has been shown clinically to restore the water-lipid layer in skin, increase oxygen to the skin cells, fight free radicals and deliver nutrients to the skin.
Research in rats have shown that argan oil lowers levels of plasma LDL cholesterol. Follow up studies have confirmed it can fight cardiovascular disease.
Because argon oil is rich in antioxidants it has also been studied as a cancer preventative. It was shown to slow the growth of many different prostate cancer cells.
Studies have also shown that argan oil decreases insulin resistance and may be useful in treating diabetes.
It is recommended to take 2 tablespoons a day to get the health benefits of argan oil.
References
https://www.dietobio.com/aliments/en/argan.html
https://www.livestrong.com/article/98565-benefits-argan-oil/
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