Argan Oil
A special plant-derived product used as a food and cosmetic ingredient.
Earlier this week, I shared my first encounter with Moroccan black soap (aka, Savon Noir) during my trip to Casablanca. Savon Noir is made from olive oil, argan oil, and the aromatic essential oils of several common Mediterranean plants (eucalyptus, rosemary, and Mediterranean cypress) saponified with potassium hydroxide. One important note I failed to mention in the post is that individuals with eczema should avoid olive oil–based skincare products, including Moroccan black soap, as olive oil can feed the skin fungus Malassezia furfur, potentially worsening eczema flare-ups. In such cases, coconut oil–based soaps, like African Black Soap, are a better choice.
In today’s post, I’d like to dive deeper into the science of Argan oil. Argan oil is derived from the seed kernels (nuts) of the Argan tree, which is—you guessed it—found in Morocco and parts of Algeria!
The scientific name of the tree is Argania spinosa Skeels, and it belongs to the Sapotaceae family. This is the same plant family where we find sapodilla from Mexico and Central America (scientific name: Manilkara zapota (L.) P.Royen) and the shea butter tree (scientific name: Vitellaria paradoxa C.F.Gaertn.) from West Africa.
The argan tree is a long-lived, evergreen, thorny species with a twisted trunk that can grow up to 10 meters (about 33 feet) tall. It typically lives 150 to 200 years, with some trees reaching 400 years of age, and does not reach full productivity until around 50 years old. Each tree yields approximately 1 liter of oil annually. Its yellow, plum-like fruits take a year to mature and ripen between June and July. Each fruit contains a fleshy outer layer, a hard nut, and one to three oil-rich seeds.
While argan oil has recently become popularized in Western beauty products for the skin and hair, in Morocco it is also used as a food. For example, the oil may be drizzled on various starchy dishes (pasta, couscous, or bread). Or, it is combined with ground up roasted almonds and mixed with honey to eat in a local dish called amlu. I missed my chance to try some amlu in the markets, but it has been described as having the consistency of peanut butter.
How is argan oil extracted?
The traditional preparation of argan oil is a labor-intensive, artisanal process carried out primarily by Berber women in southwestern Morocco. The process begins with the collection of ripe argan fruits, which are sun-dried to allow the outer pulp to be easily removed. The hard inner nut is then cracked open manually, often using stones, to extract the oil-rich kernels inside.
For argan oil used in food, the kernels are gently roasted to enhance flavor, then ground into a paste using a hand-operated stone mill. The paste is kneaded by hand while small amounts of warm water are added to help release the oil. The extracted oil is then decanted and filtered to remove solids, resulting in a golden, nutty-flavored oil valued for its nutritional and sensory properties.
For cosmetic argan oil, the kernels are not roasted in order to preserve their bioactive compounds and reduce odor. The remaining steps, including grinding, kneading, and filtering, are similar, although no water is added to prevent spoilage. This traditional method produces limited quantities of oil but preserves both its quality and the cultural heritage of the region. Women’s cooperatives play an important role in supporting fair labor practices and sustainable production.
What is the chemical makeup of argan oil?
According to a 2022 scientific study on the chemical makeup of argan oil, it is mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acids (~80%), which contribute to its nutritional and functional properties. The major unsaturated constituents are oleic acid (43–49 g/100 g) and linoleic acid (29–37 g/100 g), both of which are well-documented for their health benefits. The oil contains minimal amounts of linolenic acid (<0.3 g/100 g), enhancing its oxidative stability and serving as a marker for adulteration with linolenic acid–rich oils such as soybean or rapeseed. Saturated fatty acids account for approximately 19% of the total composition, with palmitic acid (11.70–11.75 g/100 g) and stearic acid (3.14–3.28 g/100 g) as the primary representatives. Minor fatty acids—including myristic, palmitoleic, arachidic, and behenic acids—are also present in trace amounts. This fatty acid profile underpins argan oil’s stability, nutritive value, and widespread application in both culinary and cosmetic sectors.
What are the health benefits of argan oil?
According to a 2024 review on this topic, argan oil has been found to exhibit numerous health-benefiting properties in scientific studies. I’ve summarized them below:
Antioxidant Properties
Argan oil is rich in natural antioxidants, particularly polyphenols and tocopherols (Vitamin E and its analogs), which help neutralize free radicals and prevent cell damage. Studies have shown it protects against lipid oxidation, enhances the function of “good” HDL cholesterol, and reduces markers of oxidative stress. These antioxidant effects are key to its protective role against heart disease and cellular aging.
Anti-Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Benefits
Argan oil has been shown to lower inflammation by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1β. Its unique phytosterols help regulate immune responses and promote anti-inflammatory signals. This makes it potentially beneficial for managing conditions like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and neuroinflammation. Research also shows it improves blood lipid profiles and lowers blood pressure in animal models.
Gut Health and Microbiota Modulation
Argan oil acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. This supports a healthier intestinal environment, improves immune function, and reduces inflammation. Emerging evidence also suggests that these microbiota changes may positively influence mood and mental health through the gut–brain axis.
Protection Against Neuroinflammation
Some argan oil components reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory damage in brain cells. By improving microglial function and lowering nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, argan oil may offer neuroprotective effects and reduce the risk of degenerative brain diseases.
Support for Metabolic Health
Animal studies have shown that argan oil helps regulate blood sugar, cholesterol, and insulin levels, making it promising for conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome. It also enhances liver function and supports fat metabolism without affecting body weight.
Skin and Cosmetic Applications
Widely used in skincare, argan oil is highly moisturizing, improves skin elasticity, and reduces sebum in oily skin. It also protects against UV damage, strengthens nails, and nourishes hair. Its sterol content aids skin repair and regeneration, making it a staple in many anti-aging and sensitive skin products.
Safety Profile
Argan oil is generally safe for topical and dietary use. Only one allergic reaction has been reported in the scientific literature, making it a low-risk option for most users.
The Takeaway
Though a relative newcomer on the food and beauty scene, entering international trade in the early 2000s, this Moroccan plant oil has already shown some exciting promise in scientific studies. I look forward to using my newly purchased bottle from Casablanca in my own skincare routines!
Yours in health, Dr. Quave
Cassandra L. Quave, Ph.D. is a Guggenheim Fellow, CNN Champion for Change, Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, recipient of The National Academies Award for Excellence in Science Communication, and award-winning author of The Plant Hunter. Her day job is as professor and herbarium director at Emory University School of Medicine, where she leads a group of research scientists studying medicinal plants to find new life-saving drugs from nature. She hosts the Foodie Pharmacology podcast and writes the Nature’s Pharmacy newsletter to share the science behind natural medicines. To support her effort, consider a paid or founding subscription to Nature’s Pharmacy or donation to her lab research.
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