Aromatherapy, Moroccan Earthquakes, and Argan
The aromatherapy community emerges as a beacon of interconnectedness in an expansive world that often champions individual pursuits.
The Argan tree, Argania spinosa L., symbolizes this link, its roots deeply entrenched in the Moroccan soil and our global consciousness. With its matchless climate, Morocco is the proud guardian of the Argan tree and its golden treasure.
However, for the people of Chichaoua and its vicinity, the tree is not just a livelihood. It is a testament to heritage, pride, and generations of traditional wisdom. The Argan oil that graces our shelves comes to us enriched with its dedication and history.
The recent tremors in the region have, however, shaken this bond. The devastation has been profound, particularly around the Ighil village and into the Atlas Mountains, a mere 58 km from Chichaoua. As quoted from our Argan producer:
...the situation in rural areas is very bleak...the fact that infrastructure was pretty much nonexistent before the earthquake hit, makes the rescue efforts progress very slow...some of us are gone forever, and others lost their entire families as entire villages were wiped out.
In such heartrending times, the resilience of the human spirit shines through. Despite the overwhelming adversities, there is a glimmer of hope. As the same producer shared:
At the moment, one silver lining is that there's a reasonable number of civilian volunteers that are actively working to reach villages that are hard to access and which were most impacted.
Yet, the aftermath of this disaster may not just resonate in Morocco but might also echo in our lives, potentially as increased costs of Argan oil. Often times price increases aren't just a monetary concern but a reflection of a broader story of loss, resilience, and recovery. Gracefully accepting these costs is a nod to our shared humanity and an expression of solidarity with a community in distress.
Amid global tribulations, we also find solace and connection in the very essence of the Argan tree. In honoring this connection and extending our heartfelt support, here's a special recipe formulated to address grief while celebrating Argan oil's rejuvenating power.
Moroccan Tribute Face Blend:
1 fl oz (30 ml) Argan Oil (Argania spinosa L)
2 drops Helichrysum Essential Oil (Helichrysum italicum)
2 drops Rose Otto Essential Oil (Rosa × damascena)
1 drop Rock Rose Essential Oil (Cistus ladanifer)
Directions:
Combine all the oils in a 1 oz (30 ml) amber glass bottle with a cap. Gently mix the blend by rolling the bottle between your palms. To use, dispense 2-3 drops onto your fingertips. As you gently smooth this oil over your face and neck, take a moment to send love, hope, and healing thoughts to our Moroccan community.
This blend isn't just about skincare; it's an aromatic tribute. Each application is a moment of mindfulness, a silent prayer, and a manifestation of our collective spirit. As we navigate our lives, let this blend remind us of our interconnected world and the strength of unity and love.