An examination of argan oil's healing effect on experimental sciatic nerve damage in rats

Argan oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. This study aimed to investigate its potential effect on nerve regeneration following experimental peripheral nerve trauma. Twenty-four female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into control, trauma, and argan oil groups (n = 8 per group). The sciatic nerve was compressed with an aneurysm clip for five minutes to induce injury in the trauma and argan groups. The argan group received 5 mL/kg/day of oral argan oil for four weeks. Functional (walking track analysis), electrophysiological (MNCV), and histopathological evaluations were performed on days 15 and 30. On day 30, the argan group showed significantly higher sciatic function index and motor nerve conduction velocity values compared with the trauma group (p < 0.05). Histopathological grading and axon counts supported functional recovery and reduced degeneration in the argan group. Daily oral administration of argan oil promoted functional, electrophysiological, and histopathological improvement in experimental sciatic nerve injury. Further studies are required to clarify its mechanism and optimize dosage.