Back to Blog
1 min read
Health & Wellness
Argan Oil: Morocco’s Liquid Gold
Michael Miller, MDMASPC, FACC, FAHA, FNLA
Having just returned from North Africa, the talk of the town (or at least in Marrakech’s Medina district) centered on one of Morocco’s prized possessions, a gold colored oil extracted from nuts grown on Argan trees. In fact, Morocco has used Argan oil for centuries both for cosmetic purposes and as medicinal therapy. Having been interviewed by the Wall Street Journal in 2012 on this topic, I thought it would be worth reviewing recent scientific evidence supporting the use of Argan Oil. Keep in mind that the oil should be purchased from a reputable source (such as Her Boristerie Bab Agnaou as seen in the picture above) due to dilution of argan with other oils or counterfeit products on the market.
1. Improves Blood Lipids: Argan oil at a dose of 5 teaspoons (25 mL) daily over a 3-week period reduced triglycerides (blood fats) 50% and raised HDL (good cholesterol) by 35%
2. Antioxidant Effects: Another recent study found that 5 teaspoons (25mL) of argan oil given at breakfast daily for 3 weeks reduced platelet clumping and exhibited heart protective anti-oxidant effects.
3. Anti-aging skin remedy: When consumed or applied to skin over a 30-day period, argan oil was associated with reduced wrinkles and sagging of the skin.
Dr Michael Miller is a cardiologist and Professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. His latest book is: “Heal Your Heart: The Positive Emotions Prescription to Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease“. 100% of proceeds of the book are donated to the American Heart Association.
Michael Miller, MD
MASPC, FACC, FAHA, FNLA
Dr. Miller is a leading cardiologist and heart health expert whose pioneering research on positive emotions, diet, and physical activity supports the integration of all three modalities for optimal vascular health.