What is olive oil?
Olive oil(Olea europaea) is a precious vegetable oil extracted from the olives of the olive tree, an emblematic tree of the Mediterranean basin. Used since Antiquity, it is appreciated for its nutritive, antioxidant and protective properties. Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols and vitamin E, it is an essential ingredient in both food and cosmetics, offering exceptional benefits for skin, hair and cardiovascular health.
What are the benefits of olive oil?
Olive oil is a true ally of well-being, recognized for its many health and beauty benefits:
- Protects the heart and reduces cholesterol: Promotes optimal lipid balance.
- Moisturizes and nourishes the skin: soothes and protects dry, sensitive skin.
- Prevents skin aging: thanks to antioxidants and vitamin E.
- Strengthens and shines hair: Ideal for dry, damaged hair.
- Improves digestion: Stimulates intestinal transit and protects the stomach.
- Prevents inflammatory diseases: rich in polyphenols.
- Promotes healing: repairs small wounds and skin irritations.
- Strengthens nails and cuticles: Protects against breakage and dryness.
How to use olive oil
Olive oil can be used for both cooking and body care:
- Food: Seasoning, gentle cooking, as a nutritional supplement.
- Facial care: Apply a few drops to deeply moisturize the skin.
- As a natural make-up remover: Dissolves make-up while nourishing the skin.
- As a hair bath: nourishes and repairs damaged hair.
- Massage: soothes muscular tension and moisturizes the skin.
- Nail care: Strengthens and softens cuticles.
Tip: For a nourishing hair mask, apply warm olive oil to hair, leave on for 1 hour, then rinse with a mild shampoo.
Is olive oil good for the heart?
Yes, thanks to its monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, it :
- Reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL).
- Protects arteries and reduces cardiovascular risk.
- Has natural anti-inflammatory effects.
Often recommended as part of the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits.
Does olive oil improve digestion?
Yes, it is beneficial to the digestive system, as it :
- Stimulates bile production, facilitating digestion.
- Protects the gastric mucosa, preventing heartburn.
- Promotes regular intestinal transit, helping with constipation.
Ideal as a digestive treatment on an empty stomach in the morning.
Is olive oil effective against skin aging?
Yes, thanks to its vitamin E and polyphenol content, it :
- Prevents the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness.
- Deeply moisturizes and protects against external aggressions.
It is a key ingredient in natural anti-aging skin care products.
Is olive oil suitable for oily skin?
Yes, although nourishing, it :
- Is non-comedogenic when used in small quantities.
- Regulates sebum production and balances the skin.
- Soothes skin inflammation and redness.
It is often combined with jojoba oil for an optimal sebum-regulating effect.
Is olive oil good for hair?
Yes, it's ideal for dry, brittle hair, as it :
- Repairs split ends and strengthens the hair fiber.
- Brings shine and softness to dull hair.
- Protects against external aggressions and heat.
It can be used as an oil bath before shampooing or as a styling serum.
Is olive oil effective for nails?
Yes, thanks to its high fatty acid content, it :
- Strengthens and protects brittle nails.
- Nourishes cuticles and encourages regrowth.
- Prevents streaking and splitting.
Ideal as a warm oil bath for strengthened nails.
Can olive oil be used on the body?
Yes, it's perfect for a nourishing body treatment, as it :
- Soothes and moisturizes dry skin.
- Prevents the appearance of stretch marks.
- Soothes skin irritation and itching.
It is often used for massage or as an after-sun treatment.
Does olive oil have any contraindications?
Although natural and beneficial, certain precautions should be taken:
- Do not overuse it in your diet, as it is high in calories.
- Avoid applying too much to oily skin, to prevent a shiny effect.
- Choose organic extra virgin olive oil to guarantee its quality.
What is the recommended daily dose of olive oil?
- Food: 1 to 2 tablespoons a day.
- Facial care: 2 to 3 drops are sufficient.
- As a hair mask: 1 to 2 times a week.
Can olive oil be combined with other vegetable oils?
Yes, it goes well with :
- Sweet almond oil: For intense hydration of sensitive skin.
- Coconut oil: For ultra-nourishing hair care.
- Argan oil: For enhanced anti-aging action.
