OLIVE OIL

Extra virgin olive oil preserves the aroma, taste, vitamins and properties of the olive. It is derived only from the first pressing of the olives and it is not exposed to high temperatures, chemical treatments or refining process in any way. Mythology, historical accounts, traditions and customs all provide evidence that olive oil olive oil has special properties, which over the centuries have been used in beauty, health and medicinal products. It is composed mainly of triacylglycerol and contains essential acids that cannot be produced by our own bodies. It contains saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, Omega 3, Omega 6, Vitamin E, K, anti-inflammatory substances and it is also rich in antioxidants. It is recommended 1-2 tablespoons every morning.

Without doubt the main need the olive and its oil met and continues to meet, that of nutrition with positive effects on healthy physical development, was the reason it became known as sacred, and why it was indissolubly bound to popular traditions, customs and folklore. Nowadays large amounts of olive oil are consumed, mainly because it beneficial to health, so olive oil is included among the 10 most beneficial foods.

The quality of olive oil depends on the following characteristics: acidity, oxidation, colour, aroma and flavor. Acidity expresses the percentage of the fatty acids in the oil. The degree of acidity is determined by various factors, such as the time the olives are harvested, the length of time they are left in the sacks, the method of pressing used…Oxidation depends on the way the oil is stored which is not suitable, gives the oil an earthy taste. The aroma and flavor of the oil depend mainly on the area, weather conditions, the variety of tree and the time of harvesting. Finally, the colour of the oil which varies from green to gold and brown, depends mainly on the harvesting time, but also on other factors such as theextraction process. Olive oil varieties: virgin olive oil, refined olive oil and pure olive oil.

Origin and history

he olive is among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world, native to Asia Minor and spread from Iran, Syria and Palestine to the rest of the Mediterranean basin 6,000 years ago. It was being grown on Crete by 3,000 BC and may have been the source of the wealth of the Minoan kingdom. The Phoenicians spread the olive to the Mediterranean shores of Africa and Southern Europe. Olives have been found in Egyptian tombs from 2,000 years BC. The olive culture was spread to the early Greeks then Romans. As the Romans extended their domain they brought the olive with them.

1,400 years ago the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, advised his followers to apply olive oil to their bodies, and himself used oil on his head. The use of oil is found in many religions and cultures. It has been used during special ceremonies as well as a general health measure. During baptism in the Christian church, holy oil, which is often olive oil, may be used for anointment. In the past several hundred years the olive has spread to North and South America, Japan, New Zealand and Australia. <br> The ancient Greeks were in habit of consuming 1-2 spoons of olive oil every morning. It was a matter of hygienic practice and helped dealing with simple chronic constipation and stomach ulcers.

Nutrition & health benefits

• Olive oil is the best edible oil in terms of palatability, stability, lipid profile, and safety profiles.<br> • One of the healthiest edible oils since it contains less saturated fats, and composes omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids.<br> • It boosts the metabolism, the growth of good bone structure and brain development <br> • Positive effect on blood cholesterol, it limits the oxidizing of bad cholesterol
• Because of the monounsaturated fatty acid, it lowers cholesterol accumulation in the blood and reduces heart problems
• One of the healthiest edible oils since it contains less saturated fats, and composes omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids.
• • Olive oil is rich in vitamin E, a powerful lipid soluble antioxidant, required for maintaining the integrity of cell membrane of mucus membranes and skin by protecting it from harmful oxygen-free radicals.
• Extra-virgin oil is also a very good source of vitamin K; that has a potential role in the increase of bone mass by promoting osteotrophic activity in the bone. It also has established role in Alzheimer’s disease patients by limiting neuronal damage in the brain.
• Extra virgin, contains tyrosol phenolic compounds such as oleuropein and oleocanthal. These compounds are responsible for its bitter, and pungent taste. Oleocanthal, oleurpein, and its derivative hydroxytyrosol are nature’s most powerful anti-oxidants. Together with vitamin E and carotenoids, they play a vital role fighting against cancer, inflammation, coronary artery disease, degenerative nerve diseases, diabetes…etc.<br> • Health beneficial effects on blood pressure, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis and immune function.<br> • Helps in treatment for diabetes, heart problems, arthritis, high cholesterol, weight loss, metabolism, digestion, aging etc.

USES

• as hair conditioner
• make you arteries more elastic
• reduce bad cholesterol levels
• make you less hungry
• cure or reduce acne
• protect your red blood cells and your heart
• treat sunburn
• help fight breast cancer
• improve your memory
• keep your lips soft and supple
• help you to stay healthier into old age
• prevent middle-age spread
• clean sensitive skin
• a natural vitamin supplement
• as a massage oil
• lower your blood pressure
• minimize cellulite
• remove makeup
• prevent hair loss and damage
• polish wood furniture