Argan Tree

Botanical Name: Argania spinosa L.

Native: Morocco, North Africa

Amazigh Tree Symbol:

Ecosystem: Desert, Arid

Ancestral Significance

The argan tree is one of the oldest trees on Earth. It is believed to have grown over 80 million years ago in southern Morocco. Argan trees can live up to 600 years and are perfectly adapted to the region’s harsh environment, with the ability to survive extreme heat (over 50°C), drought, and poor soil.

Much of the region has resisted the advance of the Sahara Desert thanks to the argan tree, which plays an irreplaceable role in maintaining ecological balance. However, these ancient trees are now suffering from prolonged droughts and increasing water shortages. The number of argan trees is shrinking day by day.

Environmental Role & Microclimate

Threats & Conservation

Prolonged droughts and intensifying water shortages due to climate change have put pressure on the argan forest. Conservation now depends on cooperative-led land stewardship and the ethical export of high-value argan oil to fund ecosystem regeneration and support women’s livelihoods.

Morocco's argan (arganeraie) forests now only cover 8,280 km² (3,200 sq mi), approximately 21 million trees near the Souss Valley—an area framed by the Atlas Mountains, Atlantic Ocean, and Sahara Desert. This region is designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

The best hope for conservation lies in the sustainable and thriving export market for argan oil as a high-value product, supporting both ecological regeneration and community livelihoods.

Oil Composition & Bioactives

• Omega 3 (Alpha-linolenic acid): regulates oil production
• Omega 6 (Linoleic Acid): supports membrane health and cellular function
• Omega 9 (Oleic Acid): restores skin barrier
• Phytosterols: boost collagen, protect skin, slow aging
• Vitamin E: shields cells from environmental stress
• Ferulic Acid: guards against UV damage and hyperpigmentation
• Carotene: UV radiation protection
• CoQ10: energizes and defends skin cells
• Squalene: combats sun damage and free radicals

Triterpenoids

• Tirucallol (27.9%) – Wound healing
• Beta amyrine (27.3%) – Skin protection
• Butyrospermol (18%) – Anti-inflammatory
• Lupeol (7%) – Antiseptic

Therapeutic Benefits (Culinary Use)

Active Ingredients: Tocopherols, phytosterols, polyphenols, squalene, oleic and linoleic acid, melatonin, CoQ10

Suggested Dose: 25 mL orally or 10 topical drops daily for 8 weeks

Safety: Generally well tolerated

Fatty Acids & Plant Sterols

• Schottenol: 142 mg / 100g
• Spinasterol: 115 mg / 100g
• Stigmasta-8,22-dien-3β-ol: 9 mg / 100g
• Total sterols: 295 mg / 100g

Soil to Oil to Skin™ Connection

Scientific research shows that gamma-tocopherol, phenolic compounds, and squalene levels are influenced by growing conditions, including soil health and microclimate. Our commitment to ancestral harvesting ensures oil integrity from root to ritual.