International Day of Argania

 Did you know that the argan tree forest constitutes a vital fodder reserve for all herds eve in periods of drought . All parts of the argan tree are edible and very appreciated: leaves, fruits and the undergrowth are a meal of choice especially for the most daring goats that do not hesitate to climb the branches.

Did you know that the argan tree , Argania spinosa (L) Skeels is the only representative of the Argania genus , and only grows in Morocco. This unique tree withstands temperatures of up to 50° celsius and plays an irreplaceable role in the ecological balance of the region providing forest products, fruits and fodder .

Did you know the fruit of the argan tree is a green to light to yellow berry in the centre of which is an almond made up of several seeds gorged with oil. It take about 100 kg of fruit to produce 3 liters of argan oil .  

Did you know that the Argan fruits are hand-picked and dried in the sun. The fruit is pilped, its nuts crushed, and its almonds crushed to filter the oil. Women lead the entire extraction process through knowledge transmitted from one generation to the next.

Did you know that he UNESCO has inscribed the Argan practices and know-how related to the argan Tree to the Intangible World Heritage list and designated the endemic production area as a Biosphere Reserve . Argan practices refer to the traditional knowledge and methods surrounding the argan tree (Argania spinosa) and its oil, particularly in southwestern Morocco. This includes the cultivation of the tree, the extraction of argan oil from the fruits, and the various uses of the oil and its byproducts. These practices are deeply rooted in the Berber culture and have been passed down through generations. Here's a more detailed look at some of the key argan practices: 1. Cultivation and Harvesting : Argan trees are native to southwestern Morocco and are typically found in arid and semi-arid regions. Traditional cultivation methods include agroforestry, where argan trees are integrated with other crops and livestock. Goats are known to climb argan trees to feed on the fruit, someti...

Did you know that  Argan oil is used as edible oil or cosmetic oil . It's nutty taste, its ability to prevent cardiovascular diseases and it benefits for the skin are scientifically recognized.

Did you know that Argan Oil occupies an important place in the Berber culinary culture of the Anti-Atlas Mountains ; For the most gourmet, you can try to prepare yourself the Amlou dessert that is traditionally offered to guests by mixing 50 g of crushed almonds, 50 g of honey and half a litre of roasted argan oil.

Did you know that as a Symbol of eternity and resistance, the argan tree has a strong symbolic and emotional value for the local population, especially among the Berbers. To protect themselves from many diseases; families hang amulets on the branches of the sacred argan trees .  

 Did you know that in 2022, argan oil was recognized as a Presidium by the SlowFood Foundation to highlight the unique knowledge associated with the traditional production of oil by Berber women.