Olive Oil Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Scientific Name: Olea europaea

Properties: Antibacterial, Anti-cancer, Antioxidant, Antidepressant, Anti-inflammatory, Laxative, Anti-microbial, Healing, Superfood

What is Olive Oil?

Olive oil is a natural byproduct of the Olive tree that traditionally thrives in the Mediterranean basin, especially Greece, Italy, and Spain¹. The oil itself is a fatty extract of the Olive fruit, and it is generated by pressing, or cold pressing, the fruit in order to extract the water and the oil. The two proceeds are subsequently separated and the water is discarded, producing pure olive oil. The scents, colors, and flavors associated with Olive Oil can vary greatly depending on the origin of the source Olives and its methods of processing¹. Olive Oil uses have spanned back as far as 4000 BC², and Olive Oil benefits are plentiful. Let’s take a look at a few of them

Olive Oil Uses And Health Benefits

One of the primary Olive Oil benefits is that it’s content is very high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). Monounsaturated fatty acids are widely known to be very healthy for the body and to assist in lowering cholesterol levels. They also are known for promoting healthy heart health. In addition, the MUFAs in Olive Oil benefit and encourage blood sugar control and healthy insulin levels³. Individuals who use Olive Oil for skin reap the benefits of its healthy Vitamin A and Vitamin E content. When using Olive Oil for skin, the nutritional marvel deeply penetrates not only to impart moisture, but also to serve as a protective shield⁴. People who use Olive Oil for hair reap the benefits of its antioxidants that remove damaging free radicals from the hair shaft and from the scalp. Using Olive Oil for hair treatments also nourishes the hair follicle and retards hair loss⁵. Let’s take a closer look at some more unknown Olive Oil uses.

Constipation - Many may not know that Olive Oil uses extend to finding relief from constipation. The healthy oil increases moisture levels in your bowels, and performs as a lubricant that promotes regularity⁶.
Wrinkles - Another benefit of using Olive Oil for skin care is that it is excellent for preventing and softening wrinkles. The fatty oil’s polyphenols fight skin damage, and the oil also assists in skin cell regeneration. Vitamin B and Vitamin D found within the oil prevent new wrinkle formation⁸.
Baldness - Using Olive Oil for hair loss can be a powerful remedy. Increasing amounts of ingested Olive Oil, as well as topical application, can assist in stimulating follicle stimulation and can assist in sebum removal that may inhibit hair growth⁷.

Olive Oil Side Effects And Precautions

Those using Olive Oil for health purposes should remain aware of the fact that this beneficial nutritional marvel is also a high calorie food. Containing one hundred and twenty calories per tablespoon caution should be employed to maintain healthy energy intake. Olive oil purchasers should also take care to ensure that all Olive Oils are purchased from a reputable source. Much of Olive Oil that is promoted as a pure product is either adulterated with other oils or altogether fake⁹.

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