Monday, January 2, 2012

Argan Oil, Morocco's Other Liquid Gold

I can't say that I love argan oil as much as I love olive oil, but I can say that I find this Moroccan product quite intriguing.

Argan oil:  derived from the argan tree that grows mainly in Morocco in the southern region of the country, close to Essaouira.  It has become quite the phenomenon in the States as a much sought after beauty product for hair and skin.  Everywhere you turn in the states there are products that have argan oil listed as a primary ingredient from shampoos to top dollar skin care creams and emollients.  Youthful skin and hair is ever-elusive for all of us, so why not try this incredible product?




The argan tree is similar in size to an oak tree.  The fruit is much desired by goats, and it is not unusual to see goats in the branches of these trees, eating their fill of the bitter fruit.  The nut inside the fruit contains one or two small oil rich seeds.  Herein lies the golden opportunity for the small fountain of youth. 
















The oil is extracted by hand in women's cooperatives in the same region where the trees grow.  This work  provides these women with a livelihood in the ever-growing market of argan oil exports.  The bottled product is available throughout the country for a relatively low price.  The exported version is significantly higher priced and can be found in fine salons in Europe and the United States.  Also available online at various sites.




I did not pursue the argan oil frenzy when we arrived in Morocco 3 years ago, even though I was encouraged to do so by some of the locals.  Unfortunately, I didn't jump on the wagon until right before we left.  It leaves skin feeling a luxurious silky softness that absorbs very quickly, even though it's oily when applied.  I can't say that it's keeping the signs of aging at bay, but I can say that I appreciate how it makes my skin feel.  A little goes a long way, and now that I'm back in a colder climate for the winter months, I plan to use it as a whole-body treatment! 

Suffice it to say, I'm hooked! 

*Source:  Wikipedia
*Photos:  Google Images

2 comments:

  1. Beautifully done! Think I'll give myself the "treatment" this week! Thanks for my very own bottle!

    ReplyDelete

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