Evidence supporting the use of: Argan nut oil
For the health condition: Itching
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Argan nut oil, derived from the kernels of the Argania spinosa tree, has been traditionally used in Morocco for various skin ailments, including dryness and itching. Modern scientific research has begun to explore its dermatological benefits. The oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids (especially oleic and linoleic acids), and antioxidants, which contribute to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Several small clinical studies and in vitro experiments have indicated that topical application of argan oil can improve skin hydration and barrier function, which may indirectly help reduce itching (pruritus) associated with dry skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis.
For example, a 2015 study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging demonstrated that daily application of argan oil improved skin elasticity and hydration in postmenopausal women. While this addresses dryness, evidence specifically targeting itching is limited. Some animal studies have suggested anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for pruritic conditions, but robust, large-scale clinical trials directly evaluating argan oil for itching are lacking. Overall, the use of argan oil to support or treat itching is partially supported by emerging scientific evidence, primarily through its effects on moisturization and skin barrier repair, but more targeted studies are needed to confirm efficacy for this specific symptom.
Other ingredients used for Itching
aloe veramyrobalan
betel
bisabolol
chamomile
turmeric
Japanese sophora
licorice root
marshmallow
peppermint oil
scrophularia root
slippery elm bark
vitamin D
vitamin E
zinc
bentonite
chickweed
typhonium
ferula assafoetida
yarrow
sweetgums
oriental arborvitae
sheep's sorrel
camphor oil
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
Avens
Apple Cider Vinegar
Agrimony
Anamu
Abrus
American Liverleaf
Asam gelugor
Allantoin
Alsonia scholaris
Argan nut oil
Amor seco
Arani
Arisaema
Asarum sieboldii
benzyl alcohol
Babchi
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Barleria
Brazillian peppertree
Black Nightshade
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Clerodendrum trichotomum
coconut oil
Colloid
Cinquefoil
Cocoa Butter
Carry Me Seed
Cornflower
Cajuput
Catechu
Cedar
Calamus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castor Oil
Carthamus
Copaiba Oil
Citronella
Didymocarpus
DIVI-DIVI
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Dendramine
European Elder
Emu Oil
Elephant's Head
Mallow
Spikenard
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Sandalwood
Sumac
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Argan nut oil
AcneAging (prevention)
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Cuts
Dandruff
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Eczema
Fatty Liver Disease
Free Radical Damage
Hair (loss or thinning)
Hair Care (general)
Hypertension
Inflammation
Itching
Pain (general remedies for)
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin Care (general)
Stretch Marks
Triglycerides (high)
Wounds and Sores
Wrinkles