There are multiple Herboristes in the souks, these herbal oasis are filled with ingredients used to remedy whatever may be ailing you.
The Herboristes are trained to brew up healing infusions of dried roots, barks, flowers, herbs and other components.
This is also the place to find the prized local Argan oil, for culinary or cosmetic purposes (I bought a couple of spritz bottles of Argan oil, I keep them at my kitchen and bathroom sinks to spritz on the back of my hands after washing them, this has kept my hands and cuticles nicely moisturized over the winter). This is also where you go to purchase fragrant essential oils {my favorite are the orange blossom and jasmine}.
You can identify The Herboristes by the distinctive baskets piled high with curious components in front of their stores.
Or by dishes of powdered pigments that they also sell and use in their concoctions, notice the Majorelle Blue on the left, click on BLUE LOVE to tour YSL fabulous Majorelle Gardens and learn more about this historical color that stands out so boldly, even in colorful Morrocco.
Our personal favorite pharmacist was Herboriste Amassaffah, whom we passed by most everyday. You can find him at 32 Route Amssafah in the Médina, or call him at 05 24 37 83 38, he ships all over the world!
When we entered his store we realized that there were many more mysterious ingredients that were available.
In the “waiting room” he provided a divine shoulder massage using seeds to naturally warm and cool my tense neck muscles, they were instantly relaxed. He also set us up with all kinds of fabulous potions to improve our health, well being and beauty, including tubes of green lipstick, made from poppies, that gives each individual who uses it the perfect, unique shade.
Loaded up with our concoctions we continued our wander into the Souks to see what we could find…
I’m planning a trip there so this is so helpful, cannot wait to raid the herboristes!!
Day Tripper — Please tell Amassaffef hello for me. You’ll find great gifts there as well.
This was such a delightful VISUAL treat! the colors are just beyoootiful. my husband and I hope to visit morocco sometime soon, and turkey is also moving to the top of our list. i think the fun lies in walking those streets and discovering things! love your blog.