Argan oil has been used both in the kitchen and in cosmetics. In the culinary world, argan oil is valued for its unique taste and he alth-promoting properties (primarily reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases). "Liquid Gold of Morocco" is also perfect for skin care, as it is considered the "elixir of youth". Check the properties of argan oil.
Argan oilhas been used both in the kitchen and in cosmetics thanks to its he alth and care properties. However, it is appreciated not only for this reason. Argan oil is the most difficult to obtain oil in the world. It is obtained from the argan tree, which grows only in the southwestern part of Morocco. The process of obtaining it is also labor-intensive, as it is hand-made. It is precisely due to its limited availability, labor-intensive production process and unique properties (and thus high price) that it is called "liquid gold of Morocco".
There are two types ofargan oil : food and cosmetic. The former is made from the roasted seeds of the argan tree. It is characterized by a dark golden color and original nut flavor and aroma. In turn, cosmetic argan oil is pressed from unroasted seeds. It is much lighter than the one intended for food and has a slightly acidic smell.
Contents:
- Argan oil: properties
- Argan oil: price
- Argan oil: application
Argan oil: properties
Argan oil is rich in NNTK - essential unsaturated fatty acids (they account for 80% of all fats it contains). Among them, the dominant ones are from the monounsaturated family, the main representative of which isomega-9 acid , i.e. oleic acid.
They prevent the development of gallstone disease and also reduce the risk of developing peptic ulcer disease. But most of all, they lower the level of "bad" cholesterol, while increasing the amount of "good" HDL cholesterol, and thus - reduce the risk of developing, among others, atherosclerosis, hypertension, coronary artery disease and thrombosis.
Polyunsaturated acids have similar properties - omega-6 and omega-3,which are also present in argan oil in the right proportions. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, so argan oil can be administered to chronically ill people (e.g. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, rheumatic joint diseases, diabetes, multiple sclerosis).
Omega-6 fatty acids themselves also improve the work of the central nervous system, support the work of the kidneys and liver. In turn, omega-3 acids influence the formation and functioning of the brain.
However, it should be remembered that an excess of NNTK in the diet can be harmful. Therefore, you should not overdo it with the amount of argan oil you consume, especially since it is very caloric - 100 g provides over 800 kcal.
Argan oil, in addition to unsaturated fatty acids, is also a treasury of substances with antioxidant properties, including phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and above all vitamin E. 100 ml contains as much as 6 mg of this compound (this amount covers about 50% of the daily requirement for this vitamin).
Vitamin E and other antioxidants protect the body against free radicals (substances that damage cells). Thanks to this, they can protect against the development of neoplastic diseases. In addition, they are helpful in the prevention of heart disease (especially coronary artery disease).
ImportantArgan oil: price
There are not only genuine Moroccan argan oils on the market, but also counterfeit products that are dyed to take the color of real argan oil and confuse the consumer. Unfortunately, they lack the most valuable nutrients. They can be recognized not only by their low price, but also by the lack of a certificate.
Remember, the original argan oil is expensive (100 ml costs about PLN 50) and the bottle bears a quality certificate, e.g. Ecocert, which guarantees the authenticity of the product.
Argan oil: application
Argan oil in the kitchen
Argan oil, which chefs call "truffles" or "caviar" among oils, gives European dishes an oriental touch. On its basis, you can prepare sauces and marinades. It is also an ideal accompaniment to fish and meat dishes.
It is best to add it to dishes just before serving, so that it does not lose its natural properties. It is inadvisable to use it for frying. It is best served cold, right after preparing the dish or just before serving it.
The aftertaste of argan oil is nutty, you can add it to bread, salads, use it as a marinade ingredient for meat, sauces, seafood.
This will be useful to youArgan oil - recipe for amlou (Moroccanpaste)
Amlou, also known as argan spread, is one of the most popular delicacies based on argan oil. Its preparation is very simple.
Roast 300 g of almonds in an oven preheated to 190 degrees for 20 minutes. Then grind the roasted and cooled almonds into a powder. Then add 200 ml of argan oil and 3-4 tablespoons of liquid honey to them, stirring constantly.
Finally, the whole thing can be seasoned with a pinch of s alt. After mixing the ingredients to a smooth paste, transfer the paste to a jar or container that can be sealed tightly.
Moroccan paste should be stored in a cool place for several days, remembering to mix it thoroughly before each serving. Amlou is the perfect addition to crispy breads and crackers.
Argan oil in cosmetics
The substances contained in argan oil also have care properties. Antioxidants, including the "vitamin of youth", i.e. vitamin E, counteract the aging process of the skin, thus preventing the appearance of wrinkles and shallow existing ones.
Therefore, argan oil is intended primarily for the care of mature skin with signs of aging, irritated and damaged skin. On the other hand, unsaturated fatty acids support the regeneration of the so-called the hydrolipid layer of the epidermis, as they supplement the deficiencies of fatty components in the skin.
In addition, argan oil protects the skin against external factors, including from the aggressive effects of sun and wind. Therefore, it will work for women with dry, sensitive skin prone to irritation and allergies. It is also recommended for people with diseases such as psoriasis or eczema.
Thanks to it, you can also control the secretion of sebum, making argan oil an effective remedy in the case of acne. In addition, it can be used for stretch marks and as an aid in the treatment of postoperative scars, as it reduces scars and improves skin elasticity.
Argan oil can also be rubbed into the scalp as an aid in the treatment of dandruff or to strengthen the hair follicles. It can also be applied to the hair itself, especially to split ends. Thanks to it, hair is restored, smooth, shiny and stronger. It also works well in nail care.
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