The Golden Fruit: “The Great Healer”
Welcome back to Politismos’s The Golden Fruit series! Last time, we learned about the unique religious significance of olives in Ancient and modern Greece. To finish things off, we’ll examine the scientific side of these remarkable fruits.
Hippocrates—the father of modern medicine—called olive oil “the great healer”.
Ancient Greeks used olive oil on their bodies and hair as part of their regular healthcare routine. They also used olive oil to heal wounds and cure diseases. Today, scientific evidence has proven that olive oil is not only an integral part of daily diet requirements, but also beneficial in aiding health and, indeed, curing various illnesses.
Olive oil may be consumed or used on the skin and hair. From cosmetics and skincare to food and medications, olive is now being added to creams, ointments, soaps, and countless other products. Its benefits are boundless.
For thousands of years, the olive tree has been inextricably intertwined into the history, culture and traditions of Greece and her people. And as the centuries have passed by, the roots of the mighty olive tree have spread around the world to share Athena’s gift globally…
Olive oil has been found to:
INCREASE “GOOD” CHOLESTEROL (HDL) LEVELS
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is rich in vitamin E, mono-unsaturated fats and important minor components that decrease lipid oxidation. With their high content of antioxidants (polyphenols, for example), Extra Virgin olive oils may reduce “bad cholesterol” (LDL) and show a stable ratio between total cholesterol/HDL.
Recent studies by UC DAVIS Olive Center, confirmed that two tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil a day can improve blood levels of lipids and lipoproteins (LDL, VLDL, HDL).
SUPPORT A HEALTHY HEART AND PROTECT FROM CANCER
The consumption of Extra Virgin Olive Oil is associated with an increase in life expectancy due to its high content in phenols, tocopherols, pigments, triolein, squalene, phytosterols, aroma and flavor compounds.
In general, the antioxidants contained in olive oil prevent cell destruction. They also help to protect the arteries—and healthy arteries keep arteriosclerosis, coronary disease and even cancer at bay.
A key anti-inflammatory compound in Extra Virgin Olive Oil and in edible olives is hydroxytyrosol. Extensive research has found that hydroxytyrosol contained in Extra Virgin Olive Oil possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. It provides protection against heart disease and plays a role in preventing or slowing the growth of tumors.
CREATE A STRONG IMMUNE SYSTEM
A daily intake of Extra Virgin Olive Oil helps to strengthen the immune system and may reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Although the mechanism involved is not yet clear, the role of polyphenols in Extra Virgin Olive Oil appears primordial.
ENSURE STRONG BONE STRUCTURE
Extra Virgin Olive Oil affects the development of the central nervous system. This is particularly important to young children. It also helps the development of a strong bone structure in children and helps to prevent calcium losses in adults.
FIGHT INFLAMMATION
Olive oil contains oleocanthal that has the same anti-inflammatory properties as ibuprofen.
PROMOTE GOOD DIGESTION
Olive oil increases the production of peptides, which support healthy digestion. It is very easily absorbed by the human body, which also leads to the efficient absorption of vitamins and polyphenols.
SUPPORT HEALTHY SKIN
Olive oil contains fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E and K. These vitamins help to protect against free radicals and cell oxidation, which can lead to premature aging.
DELIVER A TASTY WAY TO CONTROL WEIGHT
Extra Virgin Olive Oil isn’t just extremely nutritious; it’s also a delicious part of traditional Greek cuisine. The rich flavor it brings to every meal leaves diners full, satisfied, and thinking fondly of home.
Data courtesy of GAEA Olive Oil.
GAEA Olive Oil is a Certified Organic and Certified Non-GMO environmentally responsible company in Greece. Practicing time-honored techniques, they have also invested in research and education – working as ambassadors of not only olive oil, but of a better, healthier and more fulfilling way of eating… and living.
To learn more, visit www.GAEA.GR
