Health and Fitness

Olives, hailing from the family Olaeaceae, were tagged as in important fruit some seven thousand years ago. It has some unique dietery components which makes them extremely healthy. Some of its main components are monosaturated fat, vitamin E, anti-oxidants, minerals like iron, copper and sodium, amino acids and soluble and insoluble dietery fibres.....Best part is that unlike other oils, the nutritional value of olives remains intact as it is hand pressed or cold pressed – without using heat. Thus it’s benefits extend far beyond.

Types of olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil: It is the most natural form and squeezed out by hand pressing and then cold pressing process. Used directly with salads and breads, they are not fit for frying as taste and nutrition evaporates on heating. They have less than 1% acidity.

Virgin olive oil: Made from slightly riper olives and has 1-1.5% higher acidity than extra virgin oil.

Pure Olive oil: The olive mash left after second pressing is filtered and refined to get pure oil. It is all-purpose oil but not used for cooking. Commonly available in the market, it is lighter in colour and blander in taste than virgin olive oil.

Refined Olive-Pomace oil: It is a solvent-treated form and not considered a good grade.

Benefits:

1. Olive oil is least allergic amongst all oils. The anti-oxidants and vitamin E present in the olive fruit works wonders for the skin and scalp. It has a soothing effect on the skin and helps in better absorption of beauty products and herbs.
2. On hair: Massaging the scalp with it strengthens and brings shine to hair. Olive oil is also known to prevent dandruff after an invigorating head massage. 
3. It  also fights back the acne-causing bacteria and keeps the skin blemish free.
4. It also erases ageing effects and delays premature ageing.
5. Spas across the world have turn towards the olive oil massages, olive masks and body wraps. They not only accentuate your looks but soothe the senses too.
6. Researches have proved that olive consumption is beneficial to keep cancer at bay, especially colon and breast cancers.
7. The high concentration of mono-unsaturated fats in olive oil is a boon for normal functioning of cells and its DNA. These fats play an important role in protecting the heart against strokes and also reduces the bad cholesterol level.
8. It protects against stomach ulcers and gastritis. It also activates the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones lowering the risk of gallstone formation.