Olive Oil is a very popular oil that was originally invented in the Mediterranean region. Some use it for cooking, and some use it for other benefits. Some of these benefits include being rich in nutrients, having antibacterial properties, supporting brain health, and having anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oils come in many different types. Some include Cold-Pressed, Extra Virgin, Virgin, Extra Light, Pure, Refined, and Olive Pomace.

You might need Olive Oil if . . .

• You want overall better health.
• You have minor cuts, scrapes, or other skin ailments.
• You have wounds that are painful or inflamed.
• You have dry skin that needs a boost.
• You are looking for a great soap with natural ingredients.

Benefits of Olive Oil

• Rich in nutrients, including healthy fats
• Antioxidant properties -- helping to fight the damage of free radicals
• Antibacterial properties
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Soothes discomfort and moisturizes skin
• Cleaning properties.

Common ways to use Olive Oil

Olive Oil is commonly used in oil form in the culinary world. You can also find it as a main ingredient in skincare, balms, and cleaning products.

How Olive Oil is Made

Several types of olive oil include Cold Pressed, Extra-Virgin, Virgin, Extra Light, Pure, Refined, and Olive Pomace. You want a high-quality olive oil and will enjoy a cold pressed extra virgin type. To make the olive oil, the olives are crushed using a hammer mill, which is also called a malaxer. They will be continually crushed for 15 to 40 minutes until they are a paste. They then go through a large steel tube called a centrifuge, where the water, solids, and fats separate. Once separated, the oil is then filtered. It is filtered many times using different methods before being decanted and bottled.

Safety Concerns

Drug Interaction: If you have any health concerns or are taking any prescription medication, please consult with your healthcare provider before adding new herbs to your diet.

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: There are no known contraindications for breastfeeding and pregnancy.

Other Concerns: Olive oil is a fat so excessive amounts could result in weight gain. Not all oils are created equal – if you aren't buying a pure oil it could be cut with inflammatory seed oils. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.

Select Studies About Olive Oil

Anti-Inflammatory and Restorative Effects of Olives in Topical Application

Olive parts have been used for years to help speed wound healing. This study suggests that they help speed the healing process in many different skin ailments, but there are no scientific results yet.

Chapter 123 - Effect of Olive Oil on the Skin

Olive oils are great for the skin because of their anti-inflammatory properties and nutrients, which help with skin healing.