Argan nuts are the seeds of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. These nuts are small, oval-shaped, and have a hard shell that protects the edible seed inside. The nuts are harvested primarily for their oil, known as argan oil, which is highly valued for its culinary and cosmetic uses. The argan tree plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing habitat for various wildlife and preventing soil erosion. The traditional method of extracting oil from argan nuts involves hand-cracking the shells and grinding the seeds, a labor-intensive process often performed by local women’s cooperatives.