Organic Argan oil comes from the kernels of the Argan tree, which grows in southwest Morocco. Local goats climb the thorny branches to eat the fruit and drop the hard seeds. Women's cooperatives gather these seeds, crack their shells, and cold-press the kernels to create a pure, vitamin-rich cosmetic oil.
Argan oil production is a highly specialised craft:
· Harvesting: The tree yields small, green-yellow fruits that resemble olives. Because the branches are very thorny, farmers rely on tree-climbing goats to eat the fruit and deposit the hard inner nuts.
· Extraction: Local women crack the tough outer shells of the nuts using rocks to find the soft kernels inside. They then gently cold-press these kernels to extract the oil.
· Deodorization: Unrefined argan oil has a very strong, nutty smell. A lightly deodorised grade retains all the beneficial fatty acids and vitamins, while giving users a neutral-scented product.
· Organic Status: To keep its organic certification, no harsh chemicals are used to remove the odour. Instead, natural steam or gentle physical filtration processes are used.