Argan Oil
Argania spinosa
C Laboratory / animal evidenceAn oil from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree, rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids. Used to moisturise skin and hair.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Argan oil is cold-pressed from the fruit kernels of Argania spinosa, which grows in Morocco. It contains oleic and linoleic acids and tocopherols. Its moisturising effect on skin has been shown in small studies; its popular use for hair and nails rests mostly on cosmetic experience. A culinary argan oil made from roasted kernels also exists.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Applied to skin, it may support barrier function as a moisturiser for dry skin. [1]
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Culinary argan oil is a source of unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
- Cosmetic (cold-pressed, unroasted) oil and culinary oil differ; check the label.
- Rarely allergenic in people with tree nut allergy; patch-test first.
- Adulterated blends are common.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Rarely redness or itching of the skin
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
In Morocco, goats climb argan trees to eat the fruit; the kernels are traditionally cracked by hand by women's cooperatives. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is argan oil good for hair?
It coats the hair shaft, adding shine and softness; there is no reliable evidence that it prevents hair loss.
Can argan oil be used on the face?
Yes, a few drops as a moisturiser; use sparingly on acne-prone skin.
Can argan oil be eaten?
Only culinary argan oil from roasted kernels; cosmetic oil is not produced for eating.
Sources
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Argan Oil (Argania spinosa). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/argan-oil/
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