"The purpose of this work is to preserve the argan tree, because it was in decline, " she said.

CNN: Morocco's 'liquid gold' liberates Berbers

Besides the Argan tree's various human uses, UNESCO notes, it has had an historical role as a buffer against northern expansion of the Sahara desert.

CNN: Morocco's 'liquid gold' liberates Berbers

One of these - a beauty oil made from Argan tree seeds - is quickly becoming all the rage among celebrities and high-end shoppers in the West.

CNN: This month on Inside the Middle East