Argan oil has a long and rich history in our culture that dates back to ancient times. The argan tree, from which the oil is derived, is native to Morocco and has been used for centuries by Amazigh women for its many health and beauty benefits.
We used it for cooking, as a cosmetic oil, for medicinal purposes and to protect our skin from the harsh desert climate.
Argan oil was produced by hand, using traditional methods. The argan tree produces small, oval-shaped fruits that contain a nut that must be cracked open to extract the kernel. The kernel is then ground into a paste, which is then pressed to extract the oil. This labor-intensive process made argan oil a rare and valuable commodity in my Amazigh culture.
In the 1990s, argan oil began to gain popularity in the beauty industry. It was discovered that argan oil is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds, which make it a highly effective natural moisturizer and anti-aging treatment.
In 1998, UNESCO declared the argan tree a protected species, due to the increasing demand for argan oil and the threat to the trees from over-harvesting.
The process of producing Argan oil still involves a significant amount of labor, and women in particular play a crucial role in the production of the oil.
Women who produce Argan oil should be paid fair wages for their work. This can help to ensure that they are able to support themselves and their families and can help to improve their overall quality of life.
We supply our products from local women's cooperatives to ensure that women have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.
By taking care of the women who produce Argan oil, we can help to ensure that this important industry remains sustainable and that the women who are involved in it are able to thrive.
By continuing to produce argan oil, women have helped to preserve our Amazigh traditions and pass them on to future generations.
With Love,
Hind Bitouche-Founder of Dar Chi. ⴷⴰⵔ ⵛⵉ