Argan Oil
Argania spinosa L.THE PLANT
Argan oil is a plant oil produced from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa L.) The fruit of the argan tree is small, round and oval with a thick peel covering the fleshy pulp. This pulp surrounds a hard-shelled nut which contains one to three oil rich kernels.
THE OIL
Extraction is key to the production process. Workers first dry the argan fruit in the open air and then remove the fleshy pulp. The flesh is used as animal feed. The next stage involves cracking the argan nut to obtain the kernels. This process is still done by hand, a labour-intensive process. For culinary argan oil, the argan kernels are gently roasted. After the kernels cool, workers grind and press them, expelling pure, unfiltered argan oil. Cosmetic argan oil is produced almost identically, though the argan kernels are not roasted to avoid an excessively nutty scent. Further filtration is required so as to leave the suspended solids to settle to the bottom.
FOR AROMATHERAPY
One of the main reasons that argan oil is so therapeutic is because it’s rich with vitamin A and vitamin E. Moroccan argan oil is also packed with antioxidants, omega-6 fatty acids and linoleic acid. Here are some natural daily uses of cosmetic argan oil:
– hydrates skin and boosts elasticity
– prevents and treats stretch marks
– reverses and prevents sun spots
– controls oily skin and reduces breakouts
– protects hair against damage
THE MARKET
In 1998, the Argan forest was designated a UNESCO protected biosphere, cultivation is protected and sustainable. Production capacity in Morocco is expected to hit 4000 tons in 2020.
ARGAN OIL BY ATLASSENCE
Atlassence offers Certified Organic Culinary and Cosmetic Argan Oil all year round. Adulterated Argan Oil is rampant on the market at cut prices but Atlassence works closely with our partners in the south to ensure a sustainable and 100% Organic pure natural product. Our producers are paid fair prices with good working conditions to ensure the continued development of rural Morocco.