What do we do with the fruit of the argan tree?
Location: Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve
As you may know, Souss Massa is known to produce excellent argan oil. This oil, both food and cosmetic, has many virtues. This oil, rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, is known for its moisturizing and rejuvenating benefits for the skin and is particularly beneficial for the hair. Today, cooperatives have developed many products around this natural treasure.
If you are interested, you can visit an argan oil cooperative in the backcountry of Agadir to see how this oil is produced in an artisanal way. You can of course buy oil directly from the cooperative for guaranteed quality and prices well below the market cost.
What is the difference between cosmetic oil and edible oil?
The difference comes from the processing of the kernels before the oil is extracted. They are roasted only in the case of edible oil, which gives it its characteristic, almost nutty flavor and a slightly darker color. Cosmetic argan oil is odorless and slightly lighter in color. Roasting has the drawback of destroying some of the active ingredients sought in cosmetology, in particular vitamin E. Traditional extraction by means of a stone mill requires prior roasting in order to reduce the water content of the kernels. Without this operation, the separation of the oil by manual mixing would be practically impossible.
Cosmetic argan oil can therefore only be obtained by mechanical extraction, using electric presses with low rotation so that the temperature does not exceed 50 degrees (hence the expression cold pressure). For your information, it is important to note that it takes kernels from 6 to 7 argan trees to obtain 1 liter of argan oil. A single tree provides between 6 and 8 kilos of nuts. Argan oil is therefore a rare and precious natural commodity.
With argan oil, obtained by cold pressing (not roasted) in order to preserve its vitamins and natural elements as much as possible, many derived products have been developed. The careful selection of kernels from the argan tree offers a regenerating, moisturizing and anti-aging argan oil that will render your skin, your hair and your nails sublime.
Many studies have shown the benefits of argan oil in cosmetic use. Linoleic acid, oleic (omega 9) and vitamin E it contains make it a perfect antioxidant. It softens the skin, thus preventing the appearance of wrinkles or stretch marks. This hydrates and nourishes both skin and hair in depth.
You will also find in cooperatives, shampoos and shower gels with argan to diversify its daily use.
Among the argan oil-based recipes, you will often find another remarkable product, Amlou, a brownish, creamy and thick mixture obtained with crushed, dry-roasted almonds, honey, olive and argan oils. This delight is known as a specialty of the Souss Massa region. It is generally served to welcome guests or commonly during the Traditional Breakfast , with a good glass of mint tea. A real tasty pleasure for your toast.
Amlou is easily found in the Souks of the Region and in shops offering local products such as honey ( ancestral beekeeping tradition – Biosphere Reserve of the Arganeraie ), Argan or olive oil.
