Argan oil is produced from kernels of which tree?

Argan oil is produced from the kernels of the argan tree.

The argan tree’s scientific name is Argania spinosa. It is native mainly to Morocco and parts of southwestern Algeria, where it grows in dry, semi-desert landscapes. The tree produces oval fruits containing a hard nut; inside that nut are oil-rich kernels that are processed to make argan oil.

In Morocco, culinary argan oil may be used with bread, couscous, pasta, or other foods. Kernels intended for cooking are often roasted before pressing, giving the oil a distinctive nutty flavor. Unroasted kernels are generally used for cosmetic oil, which is popular in skin and hair products.

Argan oil is not made from olives, almonds, dates, or palm fruit, although those plants also produce important oils or foods in the region. Traditional argan processing has often involved women’s cooperatives, which help preserve local knowledge and provide income. UNESCO added argan-related practices and know-how to its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014.