The popularity of Argan has grown beyond the borders of Morocco into the kitchens and beauty products of Europe, America, Canada and beyond. The wonders of the Liquid Gold from Morocco speak for itself. Due to its rising popularity, the demand for Argan has increased into a viable economy for the local village people of the Moroccan southwest.
For Centuries, Argan Oil has been made only by Berber women. Today the Argan Oil production is done primarily in numerous Women’s Co-Operatives in the southwest region of Morocco. The Co-Operatives employ women that may be widowed or divorced and still have family responsibilities. The Co-Operatives offer the women fair wage and hours that are suitable to meeting the needs of their family and children. Many of the Co-Operatives offer educational and childcare benefits. Some offer them a place to live. The women enjoy the work with each other laughing and telling stories as they carry on with the difficult labor.
Visiting an Argan Co-Operative is a must do on any visit to Morocco.
The Moroccan Elixir buys its Argan Oil from The Marjana Co-Operative Project near Essaouira. It is a small Co-Operative that employs several women. The Marjana Co-Operative employs only the Traditional Methods of Argan oil and uses no machinery. The Co-Operative is in the middle of a forest of Argan and Thuja trees. If you visit Morocco, you may stop at the Co-Operative on the road between Marrakesh and Essaouira. Here you will get a glimpse into the traditional life of Berber women. The women are joyful and determined to present quality products for the opportunities they have been given.
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