Liquid gold: The many uses of argan oil

Argan oil is rapidly gaining popularity thanks to its many uses and healing properties. What exactly is it about this oil, which hails from Morocco, that makes it such a great cure-all?

Healing inside and out
Argan oil is full of antioxidants, fatty acids and Vitamin E, all of which help to nourish hair from scalp to end, strengthen brittle nails, restore skin’s elasticity and banish dry skin. No wonder it’s the darling of the beauty industry!

Natural News touts the oil’s ability to aid in digestion, while sterols can lower cholesterol. Live Strong reports that argan oil may slow the production of prostate cancer cells and potentially prevent other forms of cancer. It has also been shown to lessen insulin resistance. Check out suggestions from Green Prophet and Food and Wine Magazine on how to incorporate this culinary marvel into your diet.

Moroccan women’s co-op. Photo by100-bioargan.com

 

Saving the trees of life
Lucy Siegle at The Guardian warns that argan forests are in decline. Traditionally, the oil is harvested by women who press each argan seed by hand. Some companies are using mass extraction techniques and cheap additives to meet demand, which threatens the well-being of the forests and the women who earn their living pressing oil.

Fortunately, women’s cooperatives have been established in Morocco to ensure fair wages and protect the trees. Two companies that work with Moroccan women’s co-ops:

• Josie Maran Cosmetics (Josiemarancosmetics.com) has a full argan beauty range. The company also partners with several charities such as City of Hope and Polar Bear SOS Initiative, earning their slogan, “Luxury with a Conscience.”
• Argan D’Or (Worldartisanguild.com), recommended by Siegle and Travel and Leisure magazine, is organic, fair trade and sells both cosmetic and culinary oil.

Go with an eco-conscious company and feel good about using nature’s ultimate multitasker!

Tags: argan oil, beauty, nutrition, Vitals

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