Bitter orange, also known as bigarade orange, is the only tree to have leaves, fruit, and flowers at the same time. In Morocco, the flowers are hand-picked when they first blossom at the end of April or the start of May. All parts of the plant have medicinal properties but numerous cultures use the water extracted from its flowers, called neroli floral water. It is collected when the essential oil is gently extracted by steam distillation.

This highly-perfumed floral water is renowned for promoting sleep (in Europe, a few drops are often put in hot milk in the evening), adding flavor when cooking (you can spot its smell in numerous patisseries) or even preparing the famous Lebanese white coffee (it is diluted in sweetened hot water to make the most of its digestive properties).

It is used in cosmetics due to its numerous qualities. It is soothing, lightening due to a bioflavonoid it contains, antimicrobial, and even capable of boosting cellular cohesion.

The argan tree, endemic to south Morocco, plays a key ecological role in protecting the area from desertification and soil erosion. It produces an edible oil when its fruit is roasted, or a cosmetic plant oil if it is extracted by first cold pressing. Argan oil benefits from a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) guarantee label which confirms its origin. In order to preserve its main active ingredients and pleasant taste, it must not be exposed to heat.

The economic sector for this oil is set apart by the fact that it involves women, who are often in a precarious situation. They harvest the argan, then produce this oil for small communities.

It is appreciated in cosmetics for its unique components, in particular omega 6 and 9, vitamin E and squalene. Its polyunsaturated fatty acids give it anti-aging and antioxidant properties which Berber women had intuitively known for centuries. Argan oil rebuilds the cutaneous barrier, limits skin water loss and increases collagen synthesis.

We also appreciate the shell of the stone – a residue from the manufacture of the oil – which, when dried and reduced to a powder, becomes an effective natural exfoliator.