Much has been said and written about a beauty product called ‘Argan Oil’ which is slowly, but steadily gaining the reputation of a ‘miracle cure’ for all kinds of hair, skin and body related issues. Let’s take a closer peek into this so called ‘miracle ingredient’ and its benefits on the human body.
What exactly is Argan Oil? And why is it so special?
Argan Oil is obtained from the kernels of the Argan Tree, which is found only in Morocco and nowhere else in the world. The specialty of the Argan Tree is that it lives for more than 150 years and starts bearing fruit only after 40-50 years.
The countless benefits of Argan Oil
Otherwise called the ‘Tree of Life’ by the locals, the Argan Tree, its fruits and the oil produced by them are very rare and so very expensive! Nevertheless, celebrities and commoners are clamoring for the miracle benefits the oil possesses, some of which include:
Skin Protection Benefits
Argan oil contains triterpenoids, substances that have protective properties which protect the skin from a wide range of infections, disorders and diseases, including sun burns, cracks, inflammation, scars, stretch marks, acne, eczema and psoriasis etc. Argan Oil also contains a suitable blend of fatty acids and Vitamin E which help treat and prevent several skin related ailments.
Extended resistance to oxidation
Although oxidation is a natural process, it can cause conditions premature aging in certain individuals. Argan Oil contains unsaturated fatty acids (almost 80%) which make it more resistant to the side effects of oxidation, including premature aging.
Improved moisture retention and metabolism
Argan oil contains sterolins, compounds that can potentially boost body metabolism and moisture retention. This would keep the body naturally hydrated for longer intervals and prevent conditions like dry skin and cracks, etc.
The presence of compounds called Saponins in Argan oil also boosts its skin softening properties and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.Argan Oil can also help treat cracked nails and cuticles effectively.
Hair restorative properties
Argan oil can help smoothen frizzy ends and help the scalp and hair follicles retain moisture. Continued application of Argan oil to the scalp, roots and tips can also give your hair the extra shine it has been missing for quite some time now.
Other medicinal properties of Argan Oil
Argan Oil contains compounds called Phytosterols (a unique combination of spinasterol and schottenol) that help lower the bad cholesterol levels in the body. These phytosterols also boost the immunity and improve blood circulation throughout the body.
Argan oil can stimulate the increased production of pepsin, a substance which is present in the gastric juice and is needed for proper digestion. Increased amount of pepsin would aid the digestion process effectively and prevent digestive disorders like gas, stomach cramps, bloating and flatulence, etc.