1H NMR-based metabolomics study of the lipid profile of argan oil and investigation of possible adulterations in the market of this valuable herbal oil.

Argan oil is widely used as an active ingredient of dermo-cosmetic products. Its high demand has led to an increase adulteration with varying amounts of inexpensive herbal oils. The quality control of argan oil is one of the most important issues for pharmaceutical companies. In this study,1H-NMR-based metabolomics study was used as a fast and non-destructive technique to detect adulteration. Argan seeds and oil were purchased from pharmacies and stores. The results showed that pure argan oil doesn't contain α-linolenic acid, while it is present in varying amounts in most herbal oils. A number of argan oils that were purchased from the market or pharmacies, despite the manufacturer's claim that the argan oil is 100% pure with no additives in the final product, had impurities especially in aromatic regions. This is the first attempt to demonstrate that the 1H-NMR-based metabolomics study can successfully apply to detect argan oil adulteration.