Argan oil

Abstract

Although known for centuries as an excellent oil for skin and hair care, argan oil has become increasingly popular as indispensable ingredient in cosmetology or pharmacy. Argan oil is the most expensive edible oil in the world, obtained by cold press from argan (Argania spinosa L. Skeels) plant seeds, which only grows in the area of southwestern Morocco. Major constituents of argan oil are triglycerides containing up to 80 % of monounsaturated including oleic and linolenic acids alongside with polyphenols, squalens and tocopherols. These constituents are responsible for biological properties of argan oil that include antiinflammatory, cardioprotective and antioxidant among others.