By Carina Ben Lmadani, Founder & CEO – ABL Botanicals
Each year on May 10th, Argania Day gives us the opportunity to reflect on a tree that is far more than an agricultural resource. The argan tree is a symbol of resilience, cultural legacy, and community strength — and for many of us at ABL Botanicals, a personal source of inspiration.
When I arrived in Morocco more than a decade ago, I did not expect that this land would become both home and purpose. Through my family, my children, and now through ABL, I’ve had the chance to connect deeply with the country’s people, its ecosystems, and the botanical wisdom that has shaped its rural life for centuries. The Argan tree stands at the heart of that story.
A Heritage Rooted in Strength
Endemic to Morocco, the argan tree grows in some of the country’s most demanding climates — where soil is dry, water is scarce, and biodiversity is fragile. It is an ecological pillar, helping prevent desertification and supporting local wildlife. But it is also a cultural one.
For generations, the knowledge of harvesting and processing argan oil has been passed down through women-led communities. This tradition was officially recognized by UNESCO, which declared argan-based practices part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. That recognition is important — but the day-to-day work, often quiet and underacknowledged, is where the real strength lies.
At ABL Botanicals, we are proud to support and collaborate with the cooperatives who continue this tradition with care and precision.
A Natural Ingredient With Global Relevance
Argan oil is widely known today for its benefits in skincare, wellness, and nutrition. But behind that popularity lies something deeper: a model for sourcing that works in balance with nature and with community.
We believe in protecting that balance. As the global demand for natural ingredients grows, we see it as our role not just to meet technical specifications, but to uphold the story and
standards behind the supply. That includes responsible sourcing, fair value for local producers, and transparent communication with our partners.
This approach is what earned us membership in IFEAT – the International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades. It reflects our commitment to international best practices in quality, traceability, and ethical engagement — starting with ingredients like argan oil.
Women at the Center
The argan economy in Morocco is sustained by women — not just as labor, but as leaders of cooperatives, educators of younger generations, and innovators in value-added processing.
Supporting them means investing in long-term structures: not one-time campaigns, but ongoing commercial partnerships that respect time, skill, and autonomy. At ABL, we aim to ensure that argan oil is not extracted at the expense of its roots — but with full recognition of the people who care for it.
Why Argania Day Matters
Argania Day reminds me why I chose to build my life — and my business — here in Morocco: to give back to the country that welcomed me, and to support the women whose work deserves more recognition.
The argan tree is more than an ingredient. It is a system of life that shows us how strength can be quiet, how tradition can evolve, and how global markets can be grounded in local respect.
As ABL Botanicals continues to grow, I remain committed to honoring that system — with humility, accountability, and deep gratitude.
