Argan tree

The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is the only species in the genus Argania, which belongs to the Sapotaceae family.

Native to Morocco and Algeria, the evergreen argan tree has been cultivated there for many centuries for oil production. The argan tree grows at elevations of up to 1,300 meters. It is a medium-sized woody plant that reaches heights of 8 meters. The branches are covered with thorns; the flowers are white to greenish-yellow, and the flowering season begins in May.

The berries—pseudo-drupes of the argan tree that are up to 4 cm long—grow throughout the summer and are ready for harvest starting in September of the following year. The bitter pulp contains an almond-sized kernel with 2 or 3 seeds.Argan oilis extracted from these seeds and is used as a cooking oil and as a base ingredient in cosmetics.

The hard wood is used for furniture making, as lumber, or as fuel.

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2. Jirabundansuk P et al.(2014) Comparative trial of moisturizer containing spent grain wax, Butyrospermum parkii extract, Argania spinosa kernel oil vs. 1% hydrocortisone cream in the treatment of childhood atopic dermatitis. J Med Assoc Thai 97:820-826.
3. Klika D et al(2014) Amino phenolics from the fruit of the argan tree Argania spinosa (Skeels L.). Z Natural history 69(9-10):363-367.