Exploring Organic Argan Oil from Morocco: Uses, Benefits, Certifications of Morrocan Pure Argan Oil, and More
by Luann Koerper, Founder of Foxbrim Naturals
Argan oil, also known as "liquid gold," is a precious oil that comes from the argan tree in Morocco. In recent years, organic argan oil has gained popularity worldwide for its high nutritional value, skincare benefits, and haircare benefits. With its high content of essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, organic argan oil is a natural powerhouse that offers numerous health and beauty benefits.
In this blog, we will explore the uses, benefits, certifications, and more of organic argan oil from Morocco. We will delve into the properties of argan oil that make it such a valuable addition to any beauty and wellness routine.
In this article
- The Argan Tree in Morocco
- The Production Process of Organic Argan Oil
- Women Cooperatives in Argan Oil Production
- The Importance of Sustainability in Pure Argan Oil Production
- Quality and Purity Standards of Moroccan Argan Oil
- Different Uses of Argan Oil
- Body and Skincare Benefits of Argan Oil
- Hair Care Benefits of Argan Oil
- The Difference Between Regular Argan Oil and Extra Virgin Argan Oil
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2023.
The Argan Tree in Morocco
The argan tree is a species of tree that is endemic to Morocco. It grows in the semi-arid regions of the country and can reach up to 10 meters in height. The argan tree is well adapted to the harsh environmental conditions of the region and is highly resistant to drought.
The argan tree is found in one distinct region of Morocco: the Souss-Massa region in the south. The argan forests in this region are home to a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forests are also home to the famous goats that climb the argan trees to eat the fruit.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2023.
The Production Process of Organic Argan Oil
The production process of organic Argan oil involves several steps, including harvesting the nuts, cracking the nuts, roasting the kernels, grinding the kernels into a paste, and pressing the paste to extract the oil. The process of producing organic Argan oil is strictly regulated to ensure the oil is of high quality and purity.
There are two methods of extracting argan oil: the traditional method and the mechanical method.
The traditional method involves cracking the argan kernels by hand using two stones. The kernels are then ground into a paste using a stone mill. The paste is then kneaded by hand to extract the oil, which is separated from the water.
The mechanical method involves using machines to crack the argan kernels and extract the oil. This method is faster and more efficient but can result in lower-quality oil.
Women Cooperatives in Argan Oil Production
The production of argan oil is traditionally a women's job in Morocco. Women's cooperatives are a vital part of the argan oil industry in Morocco, providing employment opportunities for women and supporting local communities. These cooperatives use traditional methods to extract the oil from the argan kernels, which involves cracking the kernels by hand and grinding them into a paste.
Women play a vital role in the production of argan oil in Morocco. They are responsible for cracking the kernels, grinding them into a paste, and kneading the paste to extract the oil. Women's cooperatives have been established to provide women with employment opportunities and support local communities.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2022.
The Importance of Sustainability in Pure Argan Oil Production
The argan tree is a critical species for the environment and the local economy. It helps prevent soil erosion, provides shade, and acts as a windbreak, making it an essential component of the local ecosystem. Sustainable harvesting and production practices are essential to protect the argan tree and ensure the long-term viability of the industry.
Quality and Purity Standards of Moroccan Argan Oil
Organic Argan oil is subject to strict quality and purity standards. The oil must be extracted using the traditional method, which involves cracking the nuts using stones, roasting the kernels, and grinding them into a paste before pressing the paste to extract the oil. The oil must also be cold-pressed, meaning that no heat or chemicals are used during the extraction process. This ensures that the oil retains its natural nutrients and antioxidants.
There are several different organic argan oil labels that you may come across when shopping for this product. Here are some of the most common organic argan oil labels:
USDA Organic
This is the most important organic certification for argan oil and other agricultural products. It is issued by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and indicates that the product has been produced using organic farming practices and does not contain any synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms.
ECOCERT
This is another well-known organic certification that is widely used in the cosmetics and personal care industry. It is issued by an independent third-party organization and indicates that the product has been produced using organic farming practices and meets strict environmental and ethical standards.
COSMOS Organic
This is a certification program that was developed by several leading European organic certification bodies. It sets high standards for organic cosmetics and personal care products and indicates that the product has been produced using organic farming practices and does not contain any harmful chemicals or synthetic ingredients.
Natrue
This is a certification program that is based in Europe and sets high standards for natural and organic cosmetics and personal care products. It indicates that the product has been produced using natural and organic ingredients and does not contain any synthetic fragrances, colors, or preservatives.
Out of these organic argan oil labels, USDA Organic is considered the most important because it is a government-issued certification that is recognized around the world. This certification sets strict standards for organic farming practices and requires regular inspections and testing to ensure that these standards are being met.
In addition, the USDA Organic certification also prohibits the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. This ensures that products labeled as USDA Organic are of the highest quality and purity and are safe for use on the skin, hair, and nails.
Overall, when shopping for organic argan oil, it is important to look for products that have been certified organic by a reputable third-party organization, such as USDA Organic, to ensure that the product is of the highest quality and has been produced using organic farming practices.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2022.
Different Uses of Argan Oil
Organic argan oil has been used for centuries by Moroccan women for a variety of purposes, including culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. Here are some of the different uses of argan oil:
- Skin Care: Organic argan oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its high content of vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. It is used to moisturize and nourish the skin, as well as to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Argan oil can also be used to treat skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
- Hair Care: As discussed earlier, organic argan oil is an excellent hair conditioner and nourisher. It can be used as a hair mask, leave-in conditioner, or styling product to moisturize and strengthen the hair, reduce frizz, and promote hair growth.
- Nail Care: Organic argan oil can also be used to nourish and strengthen the nails. It helps to moisturize the cuticles and nail bed, reducing the risk of dryness and cracking.
- Massage Oil: Due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties, organic argan oil is a popular massage oil. It can help to relieve muscle tension and moisturize the skin at the same time.
- Lip Care: Organic argan oil can be used as a natural lip balm to moisturize and nourish dry, chapped lips. Its high content of vitamin E and essential fatty acids helps to soothe and protect the delicate skin on the lips.
Body and Skincare Benefits of Argan Oil
Organic argan oil is a versatile natural product that offers numerous benefits for the body and skin. From moisturizing and nourishing to anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, argan oil is a valuable addition to any skincare and wellness routine. In this section, we will discuss in detail the various body and skin benefits of organic argan oil.
Moisturizing Properties
Organic argan oil is an excellent moisturizer for the skin due to its high content of essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic and oleic acid. These fatty acids help to hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity, leaving it feeling soft and supple. The oil is easily absorbed into the skin, making it an ideal natural moisturizer for all skin types.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Argan oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. The oil contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds such as polyphenols and saponins that help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
Anti-Aging Properties
Organic argan oil is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E, ferulic acid, and polyphenols, which help to protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals. These antioxidants also help to reduce the signs of aging by promoting cell regeneration and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Acne and Scar Treatment
Organic argan oil is effective in treating acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can also help reduce the appearance of scars by promoting cell regeneration and improving skin texture. The oil is easily absorbed into the skin without clogging pores, making it a suitable treatment for acne-prone skin.
Hair Care Benefits of Argan Oil
One of the most popular uses of argan oil is for hair care. The high content of essential fatty acids and antioxidants in organic argan oil make it an excellent hair conditioner and nourished. Here are some of the hair care benefits of organic argan oil:
Conditioning Properties
Organic argan oil is a natural hair conditioner that helps to nourish and moisturize the hair. It contains fatty acids that coat the hair shaft, helping to protect it from damage and dryness. Regular use of argan oil can leave hair feeling soft, silky, and shiny.
Frizz Reduction
Frizzy hair can be difficult to manage, but organic argan oil can help to tame frizz and flyaways. The oil penetrates the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle, reducing the rough texture that leads to frizz. This results in smoother, more manageable hair.
Hair Growth Properties
Organic argan oil is rich in nutrients that are essential for healthy hair growth, such as vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. These nutrients help to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth, resulting in thicker and healthier hair.
Heat Protection
Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons can damage hair and cause split ends. Organic argan oil can help to protect hair from heat damage by coating the hair shaft and reducing the amount of heat that penetrates the hair.
Scalp Treatment
Organic argan oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that make it effective in treating scalp conditions such as dandruff and dry scalp. The oil moisturizes the scalp and reduces inflammation, leaving it healthy and nourished.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2022.
The Difference Between Regular Argan Oil and Extra Virgin Argan Oil
When shopping for argan oil, you may come across two types: regular argan oil and extra virgin argan oil. While both are derived from the same source, they differ in terms of their quality, extraction methods, and benefits.
Regular argan oil, also known as refined argan oil, is made by pressing the kernels of the argan tree and then refining the oil through a process that involves deodorization, bleaching, and heating. This process helps remove impurities and extend the oil's shelf life, but it also strips the oil of some of its natural nutrients and antioxidants. Regular argan oil has a lighter color and a milder aroma compared to extra virgin argan oil.
On the other hand, extra virgin argan oil, also known as unrefined argan oil, is extracted using traditional methods that involve roasting the kernels before pressing them. This process helps retain the oil's natural nutrients and antioxidants, resulting in a richer, darker oil with a nutty aroma. Extra virgin argan oil is also cold-pressed, meaning it is extracted without the use of heat or chemicals, which helps preserve its quality and purity.
For starters, extra virgin argan oil is a more natural and pure form of argan oil, as it has not been stripped of its nutrients through refining. This means that it is richer in antioxidants, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids, all of which help nourish and protect the skin, hair, and nails.
Additionally, extra virgin argan oil is more potent and effective than regular argan oil. Its higher concentration of nutrients and antioxidants means that it can penetrate deeper into the skin and hair, providing more long-lasting benefits. Extra virgin argan oil is also more versatile than regular argan oil, as it can be used in a variety of ways, such as facial oil, hair serum, or nail treatment.
In conclusion, while regular argan oil and extra virgin argan oil may look similar, they differ in terms of their quality, extraction methods, and benefits. If you want to experience the full benefits of argan oil, it is recommended that you choose extra virgin argan oil, as it is a more natural, pure, and potent form of this versatile oil.
Foxbrim Naturals Extra Virgin Argan Oil
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2022.
Foxbrim Naturals is a brand that takes pride in creating high-quality natural products, and its Extra Virgin Argan Oil is no exception. Unlike regular argan oil, this product is made from unroasted argan kernels, which ensures that it retains more of its nutrients and purity.
One of the main reasons why Foxbrim Naturals chooses extra virgin argan oil over regular argan oil is due to its higher nutrient content. Extra virgin argan oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids, which makes it an excellent choice for nourishing and hydrating the skin and hair.
Another advantage of Foxbrim Naturals Extra Virgin Argan Oil is its purity. This product is USDA certified, which means that it meets strict standards for quality and safety. This makes it a more reliable option for those who are concerned about the purity of the products they use on their skin and hair.
One of the unique features of this product is its versatility. Foxbrim Naturals Extra Virgin Argan Oil can be used as a standalone oil or added to other skincare or haircare products to enhance their benefits. In particular, it can be added to any DIY recipe to provide a nourishing and hydrating boost to the skin and hair.
Overall, Foxbrim Naturals Extra Virgin Argan Oil is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a high-quality, natural product that can provide numerous benefits for the skin and hair. Its higher nutrient content, purity, and versatility make it a superior choice to regular argan oil.
Foxbrim Naturals Extra Virgin Argan Oil can be purchased on the website of Foxbrim Naturals, Shopify, and Amazon.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2022.
Final Note
Organic Argan oil is a versatile and beneficial natural oil that has been used for centuries in Morocco. The oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that make it an excellent ingredient for skincare, hair care, and wellness purposes.
The traditional method of Argan oil production involves women's cooperatives, which provide employment opportunities and empower women economically. The sustainable management of the Argan forest is critical to ensure the long-term viability of the Argan oil industry and the livelihoods of the local communities.
When choosing and using organic Argan oil, it is essential to look for certifications and oil that is cold-pressed and extracted using the traditional method. By incorporating organic Argan oil into your skincare, haircare, and wellness routines, you can reap its many benefits while supporting a sustainable and empowering industry in Morocco.
For more details about organic products, read more about Foxbrim Naturals.
Luann Koerper
I'm the co-owner and founder of Foxbrim Naturals. Leaving the corporate world in 2015, I've been developing natural and organic products as a concerned mom ever since! I'm passionately sharing the power of natural and organic ingredients that are not only scientifically proven but are also mother nature's solutions to aging into grace and beauty.