History of Olive Oil

This oil has been around for thousands of years and originated in the middle east around 540 BCE. Olive oil presses were also found in ancient Crete, where it was used for cosmetics, soaps, and medicines. The Egyptians also used it as a cleanser and moisturizer. Cleopatra used it as a cosmetic treatment along with beeswax. Hippocrates called it the great therapeutic, and used it for a variety of purposes, including wound treatment. In ancient Greece, olive trees can be found in about 2000 BCE; where athletes were sometimes rewarded with large vases of olive oil. Olive trees are practically indestructible and can regenerate after fires and diseases. They also live thousands of years and can adapt to a variety of climates.

How Olive Oil is Produced

The olive trees are shaking gently, and umbrella-like nets are under them to catch the olives. Olives contain 10% oil when their green. The nets are there to avoid stressing the olives because any lesion in the olive can result to inferior quality. Then the olives are placed into perforated crates, so they can breathe. Olives are then separated from any debris such as leaves, or twigs. They are then crushed and pressed with stone mills, or other modern tools.

Benefits of Olive Oil

1. Restores the blood-brain barrier

The blood-brain barrier acts as a shield for the brain, keeping things out that don’t belong there, and brining in things your brain needs. The BBB can become leaky through lifestyle and environmental factors. Extra virgin olive oil as been shown to help restore the BBB.

2. Powerful anti-inflammatory effect

Olive oil has many compounds in it that act to reduce inflammation. The compounds such as polyphenols have been shown to reduce inflammatory markers.

3. Improves cardiovascular health

Olive oil can improve cardiovascular health by improving lipid and cholesterol profiles. It can also help build cell membranes do to it’s oleic acid content. Cell membranes give structure to the cells.

Sourcing and Best Practices

Where you get your olive oil really matters. Olive oil is legally allowed to get cut up to 40% with vegetable oil, thus most olive oil on the shelf is adulterated. The olive oil should taste spicy, and not bland. You want to get it in a dark glass bottle to ensure freshness, and no leaching of plastic into the oil. Also,  You can actually cook with olive oil, but it depends on the temperature, and the type of olive oil. It’s best to store in a cool, dark place.