Why I Love Olive Oil

I love olive oil in salad dressing and spaghetti sauce, but rubbing it on my skin? I've heard a lot about how healthy olive oil is inside the body, but let’s focus on what it does on the outside!

People have recognized the benefits of olive oil for thousands of years. Olive oil has always been highly valued in food and health, and Biblically was used in cooking, medicinally, and for sacrifices and anointing.

The “first oil” of the olive, known today as extra-virgin olive oil, is the first cold-pressed extraction of oil, and is uniquely beneficial. The entire fruit of the olive tree is used, so unlike other vegetable and fatty oils, extra-virgin olive oil contains both fatty oil from the seed and essential oil from the fruit of the olive – a two for one deal! Extra-virgin olive oil also retains the color and fragrance of the olive.

A study conducted by Maria-Isabel Covas found that olive oil reduces inflammation. Another study conducted by Dr. Niva Shapira and Bob Kuklinski found that olive oil may help prevent malignant melanoma, or skin cancer, by protecting the skin against UV rays.

Used as a base in skin care products, the components of olive oil are carried through the skin and into the body, taking other beneficial ingredients (such as the addition of other essential oils or plant extracts) with it. Even by itself it nourishes and softens skin!

If you like the fragrance of olive oil like I do, try using it by itself to condition your hair. You will be amazed at how soft and healthy your hair will feel!

What is your favorite way to use olive oil? Have you noticed any health benefits from it?