For us “young” adults, it almost feels obvious to know the benefits and properties of this magnificent and precious oil: Argan Oil.
Yet, just a few days ago, while talking with some young colleagues in the wellness sector, I was surprised to realize that although they had heard of Argan oil—maybe seen it on a shelf or in a store window—they didn’t actually know its true nature, nor its extraordinary benefits for the skin, hair, and overall body wellness.

For this reason, in this section of the Wellnessaround blog, I want to explore the topic in depth: dedicated to all young professionals and to those taking their first steps in a continuously evolving field, where knowledge and professionalism are essential to achieve good results.

Like many other aspects of the wellness world, this topic deserves attention. And, as a loyal user for many years, I want to share detailed information along with practical and useful usage tips.
To make it easier to read and avoid being too lengthy, I’ve decided to break the topic into several parts.

Are you ready? Let’s dive in…

A BIT OF HISTORY

Argan oil has ancient origins. For centuries, it has been a true natural shield for Berber women, protecting them from the effects of the scorching sun and the desert winds.
Traditionally used in local medicine for its healing, anti-inflammatory, and regenerating properties, it has proven effective for burns, eczema, psoriasis, teenage acne, chickenpox, and skin redness.

Its production is still carried out today using traditional, slow, and meticulous methods. The oil is hand-extracted by local women’s cooperatives, a process that can take an entire day to produce just one liter of oil from about 100 kg of kernels.

The tree from which it is extracted, Argania spinosa, grows almost exclusively in certain areas of Southern Morocco, western Algeria, and northern Mauritania. The name “argan” comes from the village of Argana, located about 90 km from Agadir in the Souss-Massa region, where most of these trees are found.

UNESCO has recognized the Argan forest as a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, both for its environmental value and for its social and economic impact on rural communities.

In the 1990s, this plant was at serious risk of extinction due to indiscriminate logging for its prized wood. Only in 1996 did a policy of responsible reforestation begin, aimed at repopulating portions of desert land.

Interestingly, Argania spinosa is extraordinarily long-lived: it can survive for over 200 years, but only begins to bear fruit after about 50 years. Truly a plant that teaches patience and resilience.

LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS ABOUT ARGAN

• Morocco’s “acrobatic goats”: In some areas, goats literally climb Argan trees to eat the fruits. In the past, farmers would collect the kernels from the goats’ droppings because their digestive system naturally separated the pulp. Fortunately, this practice has almost disappeared today thanks to more hygienic and cooperative production methods.

• Lesser-known culinary uses: Beyond cosmetics, culinary Argan oil (made from roasted almonds) is considered a delicacy in Morocco. It is used to season couscous, salads, tajines, and to prepare amlou, a delicious spread made from Argan oil, almonds, and honey. Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, it is also considered beneficial for cardiovascular health.

• A unique agroforestry system: The Argan ecosystem is one of the few examples of natural agroforestry, where pastoralism, agriculture, and environmental preservation coexist. This balance has allowed local populations to live in harmony with the land for centuries.

WHERE TO FIND REAL ARGAN OIL

If you ever find yourself in Morocco, I highly recommend visiting the Argarmar Argan Oil cooperative, located in the industrial area of Ait Melloul, Agadir (Lot 916).
Ask for Mrs. Fatima Er-Rais, the CEO and a true ambassador of local tradition: with great professionalism and kindness, she will guide you through the entire production process—while, of course, offering you a refreshing mint tea.