Biological activities of argan (Argania spinosa L.) oil: Evidences from in vivo studies

Abstract

The therapeutic profits of argan oil have been increasingly sought after these days for its characteristic lipophilic antioxidant composition, majorly monounsaturated (up to 80%) and saturated (up to 20%) fatty acids, tocopherols, sterols, and polyphenols. These unique blend of lipophilic compounds, part from being safe, have been reported to be largely responsible especially for the prevention of noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, hypercholesterolemia and obesity; and treatment for many dermatological disorders. Increasing interest in the nutricosmetics and cosmeceutical application of argan oil has led to more studies on the pharmacological benefits of the oil. So far, determination of active compounds in argan oil is abundant and extensive, which allows for the derivatization of several accurate analytical methods in the detection of adulteration and fraudulent in argan oil. However, clinical trials in substantiating various health-promoting bioactivities of the oil are relatively lacking. This chapter aims to present a review of proven biological properties specifically pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, and nutraceutical of argan oil proven from the most recent clinical and preclinical (in vivo) data published. Although clinical data are increasingly available, this review shows that a lack of clinical pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data as well as limited sample size constitutes a serious weakness in our knowledge about argan oil, therefore it is still in its infant stage to substantiate reported pharmacological activities to any potential clinical relevance.