Moroccan Argan oil has been gaining popularity in recent years, thanks to its numerous benefits for the skin, hair, and nails. But have you ever wondered what it smells like?
Some people describe it as nutty or fruity, while others claim it has a pungent or sour scent. In this article, we’ll explore the different scents of Moroccan Argan oil and what they mean for its quality and effectiveness.
Whether you’re a fan of this miracle oil or just curious about its fragrance, keep reading to find out more.
What Does Moroccan Argan Oil Smell Like?
Moroccan Argan oil has a distinct aroma that can vary depending on its quality and processing method. Generally, pure cosmetic Argan oil has a mild, almost odorless scent. This is because it is cold-pressed, which preserves its natural properties and prevents the development of strong smells.
On the other hand, culinary Argan oil has a strong nutty aroma, which is due to the roasting process it undergoes. This type of oil is used for cooking and has a different composition than cosmetic Argan oil.
If you come across an Argan oil that smells sour, rancid, or like manure, it’s likely that it has gone bad or was made from low-quality ingredients. In this case, it’s best to avoid using it on your skin or hair as it may cause irritation or other adverse effects.
The Origins Of Moroccan Argan Oil
The argania spinosa tree, the source of Moroccan Argan oil, is native to southwestern Morocco and can only be found in this region. The oil has been used by Moroccans for generations and has a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians in 1550 BC.
In the 16th century, Argan oil made its way to Europe and was considered an exotic oil. Today, it is widely known and used for both cosmetic and culinary purposes, but it all originates from the same source – the kernels of the argan tree.
Argan oil is a rare oil that is high in both oleic (omega 9) and linoleic (omega 6) essential fatty acids. These fatty acids aid acne-prone skin, which studies show is usually deficient in linoleic acid in the sebum. Depending on its sourcing, Argan oil contains about 35–40 percent linoleic acid and 42–48 percent oleic acid.
People throughout the world have taken advantage of the many Argan oil benefits to help treat skin infections, bug bites, and skin rashes. Today, it’s used by men and women who are seeking an effective, all-natural moisturizer for skin and hair. Cosmetic companies are including it in their high-end anti-aging, hair, and skin care products due to its compounds like vitamin A, vitamin E, antioxidants, omega-6 fatty acids, and linoleic acid.
The Extraction Process Of Moroccan Argan Oil
Moroccan Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree, which is native to Morocco. The extraction process is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process that involves several steps.
Traditionally, the process of extracting Argan oil was done by hand. Women would collect the Argan fruit, remove the pulp, and then crack open the hard shell to reveal the kernel inside. The kernels were then roasted over an open fire to release their oil. After roasting, the kernels were ground into a paste using a stone millstone and then pressed to extract the oil.
Today, most Argan oil is produced using a semi-industrial mechanical extraction process. The kernels are first dried in the sun to remove any moisture. Then, they are mechanically cracked open to reveal the kernel inside. The kernels are then ground into a paste using a machine and then pressed to extract the oil.
The quality of the oil depends on several factors, including the quality of the kernels and the extraction method used. Cosmetic Argan oil is made from unroasted kernels, while culinary Argan oil is made from roasted kernels. The roasting process gives culinary Argan oil its distinct nutty aroma and flavor.
To ensure that you are getting high-quality Moroccan Argan oil, it’s important to look for 100% pure Argan oil with no additives or preservatives. The oil should be cold-pressed to preserve its natural properties and should have a mild, almost odorless scent. If you come across an Argan oil with a strong or unpleasant odor, it’s likely that it has been processed using low-quality ingredients or has gone bad.
The Natural Scent Of Moroccan Argan Oil
The natural scent of pure Moroccan Argan oil is often described as slightly nutty, with a subtle organic or sour fragrance. Some people even compare it to the scent of popcorn or olive oil. However, it’s important to note that the scent can vary from batch to batch and even seasonally.
While some people may find the scent of Argan oil to be strong or pungent, it should never be overpowering or unpleasant. If you encounter an Argan oil that has a very strong fragrance or no scent at all, it may be an indication that the oil has been processed using damaging methods such as deodorization or chemical solvents.
When purchasing Argan oil for cosmetic use, it’s important to look for cold-pressed, pure, and unrefined oils that have been extracted without the use of heat or chemicals. These oils will retain their natural scent and properties, providing the best possible benefits for your skin and hair.
Factors That Affect The Scent Of Moroccan Argan Oil
The scent of Moroccan Argan oil can be influenced by various factors such as the extraction method, the quality of the raw materials, and the refining process. The way the oil is prepared or extracted can significantly affect its aroma.
Cosmetic-grade Argan oil that has undergone minimal processing typically has a mild, nutty scent. This is because it is cold-pressed, which involves pressing the kernels without heat to extract the oil. The lack of heat prevents the oil from developing a strong aroma and preserves its natural properties.
Culinary-grade Argan oil, on the other hand, has a distinct nutty aroma due to the roasting process it undergoes before extraction. This process gives the oil its characteristic flavor and aroma, making it ideal for use in cooking.
However, if Argan oil smells sour, rancid, or like manure, it may be a sign that it has gone bad or was made from low-quality ingredients. This could be due to improper storage or handling of the raw materials during production.
Furthermore, some brands may use chemical solvents or heat during the refining process to extract more oil from the kernels. This can lead to a loss of natural properties and a change in scent. In some cases, deodorization may also be used to remove any unwanted smells from the oil. However, this can also strip away some of its beneficial properties.
How To Identify High-Quality Moroccan Argan Oil
When looking for high-quality Moroccan Argan oil, there are a few important elements to consider to avoid bad surprises. Firstly, avoid smelly or deodorized Argan oil, as high-quality Argan oil has a delicate, luxurious nutty smell. If your Argan oil has a strong scent, it has probably gone rancid or has been extracted from kernels pre-digested by goats. Many brands put Argan oil through damaging heating and deodorization processes to cover predigested kernels’ strong smell.
Secondly, make sure your product is cold-pressed. This ensures that the oil’s natural properties are preserved and that it is of cosmetic grade. Culinary Argan oil is roasted and has a much stronger nutty aroma, which is not suitable for cosmetic use.
Thirdly, the price of Argan oil is an important factor to consider. It is one of the most expensive oils in the world due to its limited production process. The kernels are selected manually by women, and the oil takes hours to extract. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is, and the quality may be compromised.
Fourthly, high-quality Argan oil should come in a dark container to protect it from UV lights and ensure better preservation of its properties over time. If the oil is exposed to light for too long, it can break down and lose its effectiveness.
Finally, when testing the oil, it should not feel sticky or watery on the skin. It should have a smooth and silky touch and should absorb rather quickly. If the oil feels too heavy or greasy on the skin, it may be diluted or mixed with other oils.
By considering these elements when buying Moroccan Argan oil, you can ensure that you are getting a high-quality product that will provide all of its natural benefits for your skin and hair.
The Benefits Of Using Moroccan Argan Oil
Moroccan Argan oil is a versatile and beneficial ingredient for both skin and hair care. It is rich in nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acid. When applied to the skin, it can help ease inflammation, moisturize, and promote healthy cell production. It can also be used as a natural anti-aging product due to its high vitamin E content.
For hair care, Argan oil can be used as a nourishing conditioner, protective spray, hydrating hair mask, shine-inducing hair oil, effective styling product, and relieving scalp treatment. It can help soften hair strands, reduce frizz, define curls, and strengthen damaged hair.
However, it’s important to note that not all Argan oils are created equal. Some may be diluted with cheaper oils or have gone bad due to poor manufacturing or storage practices. It’s crucial to choose a high-quality and pure Argan oil that has its distinct aroma and is mostly clear with a golden yellow/brown color. This ensures that you are getting the full benefits of this precious oil without any adverse effects.
