Argan oil from Morocco
The liquid gold of the Berber women
Moroccan Argan oil In great demand & immaterial cultural heritage. Experience tradition & craftsmanship handed down through the generations: In an Argan oil women’s cooperative in the southwest of Morocco. 1000 Berber women make a stance for fair trade and protect the region against exploitation and rural flight.
ARGAN OIL – MOROCCO’S LIQUID GOLD
The liquid gold is important for the Arganeraie region not just in economic terms. It is the women who are responsible for the production of this product, which is in high demand for health, culinary and cosmetic purposes. They preserve a craft and a cultural good that would normally have been pushed aside by industrialisation, but has instead sparked a veritable hype, in particular in the beauty industry.
The Argan tree is a bit of a diva. No one knows why, but all attempts at moving these up to 50-metre wide trees and make them take roots somewhere else have failed. The trees stay put!
LOVE FOR DETAIL
Traditionally, the ripe fruit are picked up from the ground and dried under the hot Moroccan sun. Before the kernels are freed from the hulls, the flesh is carefully removed. As a next step, the Argan seeds are gently roasted, depending on their further purpose, then ground and kneaded to a mush with lukewarm water until the precious oil separates. Pure, high-quality Moroccan Argan oil is usually made in smaller women’s cooperatives. These “superwomen” make an important contribution towards the economic and social development of the Arganeraie region.
THE MANY PURPOSES OF THE ARGAN TREE
Moroccan Argan oil is mostly harvested in the 26000 m2 Arganeraie region in the southwest of the country, which was declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1998. The Argan tree, which plays an important role not just in Argan oil production but is also used as feedstock and firewood by local farmers, grows nowhere else but here. It also constitutes an important barrier against further desertification. Argan trees grow and thrive only in Morocco. Due to their extremely hard and resilient wood, the trees, which grow up to 12 metres high, are also called “iron wood trees” and have a life expectancy of up to 400 years. Even though the Argan fruit look similar to olives or dates, depending on their ripeness, with kernels that are reminiscent of almonds and oil with a nutty flavour, they actually belong to the berry family.
SUSTAINABLE GOOD HEALTH
The healing, soothing effect of Moroccan Argan oil is no longer a secret. The oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, antioxidants and secondary plant substances. It is also said to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and cholesterol-lowering properties, which is why local Berber tribes still use it to treat skin diseases and gastrointestinal problems. This is a plant that has it all!
It is also a true all-rounder: In cooking, Moroccan Argan oil made from the roasted seeds is used for seasoning and refining a range of dishes. The bitter flavour disappears during the roasting process. What remains is a deliciously nutty aroma. The oil from the non-roasted seeds is used in beauty applications. It moisturises skin and hair and even has an anti-aging effect.
COMMUNITY
Craftsmanship comes at a price – but what is even more important is protecting the heritage and securing the future of the region and the local families who are able to make a living thanks to the hard work of the women in the Argan industry. By purchasing these handmade products, you support these women and honour their work. An important step towards more independence and emancipation!
YOUR PUR LIFE MAROC EXPERIENCE
A visit to the Marjana women’s cooperative is the perfect counterpoint to your stay in Essaouira. The cooperative is just a 15-minute drive away from the city.
Programme – half-day trip including meal:
Tips in Essaouira
Hotel tips in Essaouira
Hotel tips in Essaouira
Stylish country guest house, in the heart of the thuja forest, that has retained the local architectural style while providing modern and sustainable accommodation, including eleven stylish eco domes. Nestled in the Swiri countryside, it’s an oasis of peace.
One of the most elegant luxury riads in the coastal city of Essaouira. Its enchanting roof terrace is the highest point of the medina, giving visitors incomparable views.
Relax and unwind in the unique eco-lodges on the stunning beach of Hotel Baberrih near the picturesque historical town of Essaouira.
Unique boutique and design gem in the heart of the medina, between Skala de la Kasbah and Place Moulay Hassan, with just six individually designed and themed suites. You must try: the chef’s table.
Indulge in the magic of Essaouira at Villa Beldi in Morocco. A timelessly elegant hotel with modern luxuries!
A fountain splashes to the heartbeat of this Relais & Châteaux palace hotel. Luxury has a name: Heure Bleue Palais. Extraordinary and charming – traditionally Moroccan. Cultural influences harmoniously combined.
Experience slow living and a chilled vibe at Le Jardin des Douars – a hidden gem around 20 minutes from Essaouira.
Within the ancient walls of Essaouira, Madada Mogador invites you to experience the enchanting blend of Moroccan hospitality and laid-back chic.
Stylish country guest house, in the heart of the thuja forest, that has retained the local architectural style while providing modern and sustainable accommodation, including eleven stylish eco domes. Nestled in the Swiri countryside, it’s an oasis of peace.
One of the most elegant luxury riads in the coastal city of Essaouira. Its enchanting roof terrace is the highest point of the medina, giving visitors incomparable views.
Relax and unwind in the unique eco-lodges on the stunning beach of Hotel Baberrih near the picturesque historical town of Essaouira.
Unique boutique and design gem in the heart of the medina, between Skala de la Kasbah and Place Moulay Hassan, with just six individually designed and themed suites. You must try: the chef’s table.
Indulge in the magic of Essaouira at Villa Beldi in Morocco. A timelessly elegant hotel with modern luxuries!
A fountain splashes to the heartbeat of this Relais & Châteaux palace hotel. Luxury has a name: Heure Bleue Palais. Extraordinary and charming – traditionally Moroccan. Cultural influences harmoniously combined.
Experience slow living and a chilled vibe at Le Jardin des Douars – a hidden gem around 20 minutes from Essaouira.
Within the ancient walls of Essaouira, Madada Mogador invites you to experience the enchanting blend of Moroccan hospitality and laid-back chic.
Restaurant tips in Essaouira
Restaurant tips in Essaouira
Within the ancient walls of Essaouira, Madada Mogador invites you to experience the enchanting blend of Moroccan hospitality and laid-back chic.
A vibrant café in the heart of Essaouira’s medina, where works of art and fabulous flavours create a sensational experience. Think traditional Moroccan dishes with vegetarian and vegan options.
Eclectic interiors, delicious dishes and delectable cocktails: Le Love by Caravane in the heart of Essaouira’s historic medina is itself a work of art with a wonderful atmosphere.
Within the ancient walls of Essaouira, Madada Mogador invites you to experience the enchanting blend of Moroccan hospitality and laid-back chic.
A vibrant café in the heart of Essaouira’s medina, where works of art and fabulous flavours create a sensational experience. Think traditional Moroccan dishes with vegetarian and vegan options.
Eclectic interiors, delicious dishes and delectable cocktails: Le Love by Caravane in the heart of Essaouira’s historic medina is itself a work of art with a wonderful atmosphere.
Experiences in Essaouira
Experiences in Essaouira
Lively bathhouse tradition, filled with gossip, laughter and discussions. For the locals, a trip to the hammam is a weekly fixture, and for Morocco fans, it is an absolute highlight.
Every route, every angle is carefully planned and thought out. Mogador, your golf course in Morocco, offers players many facets: majestic dunes, proximity to the sea, lush greens and a breeze to motivate you.
Where the world’s best musicians from genres such as Gnaoua, jazz, Flamenco and reggae, Cuba, Tuareg and Tamil get together! The free concerts, jamming sessions & parades take place at the most picturesque spots of the city.
Why has the UNESCO set aside 26,000 m² in the southwest of Morocco as a biosphere reserve? Because the region is home to a very special tree: the Argan tree, our of which Berber women make precious Argan oil.
Your Pur Life Maroc private concierge is your personal guide to Morocco, your contact, adviser and local expert – at your disposal from morning to night. For unforgettable holiday moments.
A private chauffeur adds extra relaxation to your Moroccan journey, with safety, comfort and in-depth local knowledge!
You can’t imagine French vines growing in a place like Morocco? Come and see for yourself, for instance during a visit of the winery Val d’Argan near Essaouira. Treat yourself to one of the 300,000 bottles produced by top grower Charles Melia.
Lively bathhouse tradition, filled with gossip, laughter and discussions. For the locals, a trip to the hammam is a weekly fixture, and for Morocco fans, it is an absolute highlight.
Every route, every angle is carefully planned and thought out. Mogador, your golf course in Morocco, offers players many facets: majestic dunes, proximity to the sea, lush greens and a breeze to motivate you.
Where the world’s best musicians from genres such as Gnaoua, jazz, Flamenco and reggae, Cuba, Tuareg and Tamil get together! The free concerts, jamming sessions & parades take place at the most picturesque spots of the city.
Why has the UNESCO set aside 26,000 m² in the southwest of Morocco as a biosphere reserve? Because the region is home to a very special tree: the Argan tree, our of which Berber women make precious Argan oil.
Your Pur Life Maroc private concierge is your personal guide to Morocco, your contact, adviser and local expert – at your disposal from morning to night. For unforgettable holiday moments.
A private chauffeur adds extra relaxation to your Moroccan journey, with safety, comfort and in-depth local knowledge!
You can’t imagine French vines growing in a place like Morocco? Come and see for yourself, for instance during a visit of the winery Val d’Argan near Essaouira. Treat yourself to one of the 300,000 bottles produced by top grower Charles Melia.
Lively bathhouse tradition, filled with gossip, laughter and discussions. For the locals, a trip to the hammam is a weekly fixture, and for Morocco fans, it is an absolute highlight.
Every route, every angle is carefully planned and thought out. Mogador, your golf course in Morocco, offers players many facets: majestic dunes, proximity to the sea, lush greens and a breeze to motivate you.
Where the world’s best musicians from genres such as Gnaoua, jazz, Flamenco and reggae, Cuba, Tuareg and Tamil get together! The free concerts, jamming sessions & parades take place at the most picturesque spots of the city.
Why has the UNESCO set aside 26,000 m² in the southwest of Morocco as a biosphere reserve? Because the region is home to a very special tree: the Argan tree, our of which Berber women make precious Argan oil.
Your Pur Life Maroc private concierge is your personal guide to Morocco, your contact, adviser and local expert – at your disposal from morning to night. For unforgettable holiday moments.
A private chauffeur adds extra relaxation to your Moroccan journey, with safety, comfort and in-depth local knowledge!
You can’t imagine French vines growing in a place like Morocco? Come and see for yourself, for instance during a visit of the winery Val d’Argan near Essaouira. Treat yourself to one of the 300,000 bottles produced by top grower Charles Melia.
