Essaouira Shopping

I've visited this Co-Operative on both my visits to Essaouira. Each time I have bought a bottle of Argan Oil.

The Co-operatives in this area have been established to give economic and social benefits to the women of this rural area, and also to preserve the ecology and economics of the area.

The one I visited employs widowed or divorced women, who would normally have very little income.
Some Co-operatives provide literacy classes, and promote life skills.

Now, the short tour is geared for tourists, and there is a promotion of the goods produced for sale - but I still buy at least one item when I visit. There is usually a good talk from one of the co-operative women about the process of gaining the oil, then a tasting session.

Production of Argan oil is labour intensive, with much of the process being done by hand.

Berbers have used the oil for centuries, for culinary and cosmetic purposes. They have claimed its medicinal benefits for years, and these claims now have scientific evidence to qualify this.

Argan oil is rich in Vitamin E Omega 6 Oleic acid linocleic acid and is a monounsaturated fat.

Cosmetic use - moisturiser for skin, hair and nails- either as oil alone or in soaps and creams.
helps reduce scarring and wrinkles.

Medicinal - anti inflammatory, lowers cholesterol, vaso-dilator and blood clot reduction, improves the immune system.

The oil is expensive but a little goes a long way. I prefer to buy my oil etc from these Co-operatives as I know that I am buying the genuine article.
It hasn't been unknown for traders, especially on roadside stalls in the area to sell argan diluted with olive oil, or even olive oil with paprika added to give the characteristic red tinge.

Also, buying here means that money is going towards the women who work here.

Please see my Things to do tips for more info on argan oil and its production

Argan oil (culinary)

This can be eaten on toast, it has a slight nutty flavour, added to tagines, used as salad dressing etc. It is probably better used cold, as heating destroys the flavour.

I've read that drinking 2 tbs of this oil for a month helps lower cholesterol, but studies are still ongoing, so not scientifically proven yet.

Argan oil (cosmetic)

This has a more neutral scent. It can be used as a facial moisturiser - to reduce wrinkles and soften the skin, nail massage to strengthen nails soften cuticles and hands, for dry brittle hair, a small amount massaged into the hair and scalp 1/2 hour prior to shampooing improves its condition. Massage oil to relieve painful joints.

Amlou- a spread made from almonds, argan oil and honey, which is eaten particularly at breakfast, spread on toast.

Soap, moisturising creams etc.

From a few euros upwards. I think I paid 8 euros for a small bottle of argan oil.

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