Argan oil

The argan tree or arganie (Argania spinosa) is the only plant species of the genus Argania, which belongs to the sapotaceae family.

Argan oil is extracted from the berry fruits of the argan tree and is used as an edible oil. Due to its high content of phenols, phytosterols and unsaturated fatty acids the oil is also used for cosmetics and especially in hair care. Allergic contact reactions have been described after application of argan oil. The actual allergen is unknown.

1. Astier C et al (2010) Anaphylaxis to argan oil. Allergy 65:662-663.
2. Barrientos N et al. (2014) Allergic contact dermatitis caused by argan oil in an infant. Contact Dermatitis 71:316-317.
3. Foti C et al. (2014) Allergic contact dermatitis caused by argan oil. Contact dermatitis 71:183-184.