Argan oil is extracted from the seeds of the argan tree, which can be found primarily in Morocco. There are two grades of argan oil, culinary and cosmetic, but this oil is one of the rarest in the world. Although the oil is valued for both its nutritious and age-defying properties, there is little clinical evidence to suggest that argan oil for psoriasis is an effective treatment.
The nutritional benefits of argan oil are well documented, and clinical trials have demonstrated that the oil is rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, carotenes, phenols and polysterols. In other words, the vitamin E and polyunsaturated fats contained within the oil have certain health-related benefits that include the prevention of cardiovascular disease and lowering cholesterol. The presence of these nutrients is why some people believe that using argan oil for psoriasis will help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with this condition.
People who suffer from psoriasis will often experience symptoms such as inflamed skin, which can become scaly. Likewise, excessive itching also can occur, and it can lead to further inflammation and sometimes infection. Oil from the argan tree is known to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, so many psoriasis sufferers claim that by applying argan oil to the affected areas, inflammation and the likelihood of infection are significantly reduced. In addition, vitamin E and fatty acids are thought to assist in the process of skin regeneration, thereby accelerating the healing process.
Cosmetic argan oil for psoriasis is also believed to protect the skin from a number of factors. An individual who suffers from psoriasis is known to be particularly sensitive to some external elements. It is claimed by some people that argan oil can act as a barrier for defense against the sun, wind and some environmental pollutants that can be absorbed through the skin and can lead to further irritation.
There have been several studies and many independent clinical trials that have examined the nutritional and health-related benefits associated with consuming culinary-grade argan oil. The results have been conclusive, and the nutritional composition of the oil is undisputed. As of mid-2011, however, cosmetic-grade argan oil had been subject to only one clinical trial. Although research has shown that argan oil does have beneficial effects when used for cosmetic purposes, this research has not conducted by an independent body, nor has it focused on the efficacy of using argan oil for psoriasis.