Argan Oil

For centuries, Argan oil has been a staple of the diet of cultures in Morocco, as has Olive oil around the Mediterranean. Published research indicates it may be healthy for the heart and circulatory system, as well as potentially have anti-cancer activity (Journal of Cancer Detection and Prevention: 2007;31(1):64-9. Epub 2006 Dec 13) "Antiproliferative effect of polyphenols and sterols of virgin argan oil on human prostate cancer cell lines."

The oil has also been researched for its anti-diabetic effects. Published in the journal of Phytotherapy Research (2011 May 17. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3524.) was a study titled: "Prevention of Chemically Induced Diabetes Mellitus...by Virgin Argan Oil." Blood sugar values were lowered, and the researchers concluded: "This anti-diabetic effect could be due to the richness of VAO in tocopherols, phenolic compounds and unsaturated fatty acids."

The oil is obviously rich in many important antioxidant compounds, including vitamin E and other polyphenols. While the peer-reviewed research in regards to its therapeutic skin care potential is limited, it is only a matter of time until rigorous research shows the value of this oil in skin care preparations.

We've been happy with the results of the oil in our skin care formulas, typically blending a base including Argan, Tamanu, Rosehip seed, Borage/Evening Primrose/ or Hempseed. These oils are all fairly diverse in their makeup and nutrient profile, so their combination creates a very complete, nutritive base for almost any skin care recipe (for those using Argan for anti-acne formulas, do be sure to leave out the Rosehip seed, as it appears to exacerbate the condition).

Argan oil can be used for nearly any therapeutic topical application of essential oils, and would be a good choice as a a base simply for those seeking a formula for acne. Again, because of its antioxidant and polyphenol content, it is almost certain to offer positive results in nearly any beauty care formula, used alone as a carrier oil, or blended with others selected precisely for your skin's condition.

Recipes Including Argan Oil

For reduction of appearance of sun damage, scarring, and smoothing the skin in general, one may use a base of four carrier oils in equal parts. Argan, Tamanu, Rosehip Seed and Borage Seed are excellent choices -- the essential fatty acids offered by Evening Primrose are more concentrated in Borage Seed; one may also consider Pomegranate Seed, as it has been specifically shown to increase the rate of skin cell proliferation; Virgin coconut is another excellent choice because of its strong anti-inflammatory properties - and inflammation is at the heart of the skin (as well as the rest of the body's) aging process. (It will generally need warming to become liquid before blending, but will remain liquid once the blend is complete). ALL these oils can be blended together in equal parts for the base -- again, avoiding only Rosehip if acne may be problematic.

For general skin health, to each 1 ounce (30ml) of your base, add the following (note there are typically 35 drops in one ml of essential oil, using either a glass eyedropper or plastic measuring pipette):

1/2ml Sea Buckthorn
1/2ml Carrot Root
7 drops Frankincense
7 drops Rosemary Verbenone

You may enhance the therapeutic value AND aroma by adding up to 12 drops of Rose Otto to this formula.

For Anti-Aging and Reduction of Wrinkle Appearance: Use the same base as above, definitely including the Pomegranate Seed oil, and include the following essential oils:

1/2ml Sea Buckthorn
1/4ml Rosehip CO2 (in addition to the carrier oil) and 1/4ml Carrot Root
7 drops Frankincense
7 drops Helichrysum
7 drops Pacific Island or Indian Sandalwood

For eczema, dermatitis or irritated skin, use a base of only Argan, Tamanu, Virgin Coconut and Borage Seed. To each ounce, add:

7 drops German Chamomile CO2 or 12 drops of the steam distilled German Chamomile essential oil
8 - 12 drops Lavender (preferably Lavender Vera, though any therapeutic grade Lavender is acceptable)
7 drops Green Myrtle, linalool chemotype (do not substitute other types of myrtle). This is a gentle form of myrtle which will also act as an antiseptic. IF you feel your condition is in need of a more potent antiseptic, add also 5 drops of Benchmark Thyme essential oil.
If your skin is particularly sensitive, add 5 -7 drops of Calendula Oil.

You'll find more recipes including Argan oil on our recipes pages as they develop!