Cultural significance of the argan tree

In conjunction with the tree's fast growth and strength, the nuts from its fruit weren't just used as food in Morocco but have also been used to treat skin ailments such as eczema and acne as well as rheumatism, arthritis and respiratory problems including colds. Locals would use the nut oil to soften their skin and hair; if a woman wanted soft smooth hair she would put the oil on her scalp before going to bed.

The tree has become an important tree in Morocco. Father Louis-Marie Aubert du Petit-Thouars, who went on three expeditions in North Africa (1801 – 1809), remarked that "The Argan is the pride of the Arabs who form its sole wealth. " The nuts would be harvested by women and stored to make oil which would be mixed with butter to make a cake eaten as a delicacy. It is used in couscous to give it flavor and also as a condiment for bread making. In other areas the nuts are used to press oil which can then be used for many purposes including cooking and lighting.

Argania spinosa - Muséum de Toulouse

In 2011, Argan oil made from the fruit of the Argan tree was considered to be a