Olive oil: benefits and harms to the body

Any vegetable oil brings great benefits to the human body. First of all, such products are indispensable sources of natural fats, vitamin components and other elements necessary for the full functioning of life. Although this group of products today is very diverse on store shelves, most buyers buy olive oil.

Such a high popularity of this type of vegetable oil is explained by a number of factors: the unique properties of the product, the wide possibilities of its use in various fields, and high safe qualities. Therefore, olive oil deserves to be better acquainted with its advantages, against which small flaws seem insignificant.

How to make olive oil

The modern production of olive oil is not much different from the methods that have been used for many centuries. And this feature is due to the fact that it is the old technology that allows you to get the most useful product.

Greece is considered the birthplace of this oilseed, where even today the most unique varieties of vegetable oil are obtained. Olive trees took root well in the subtropical regions of the Mediterranean, in the southern regions of the Black Sea zone, in northern India and in Iran. This culture also grows in South America with a warm subtropical climate. It is interesting that the olive tree has a solid life expectancy: there are specimens whose biography totals more than five hundred years.

To obtain valuable vegetable oil, the mature fruits of the olive tree are used. To preserve all the useful qualities of the product, a manual method of squeezing fruits is used. This is a very time-consuming option, and therefore the resulting product is especially appreciated. This type of oil not only has a pleasant taste, but also does not burn out during cooking. True, labor costs increase the cost of such a product.

Today, advanced methods are used in the production of natural oils.

1. Pressing is a mechanical extraction from pre-ground raw materials.
2. Centrifugation consists in the initial purification of olive fruits, followed by passing through the apparatus. As a result of this treatment, a homogenized mass is obtained.
3. Extraction. This technique involves the use of organic solvents to produce a product with minimal fat content.

These are the preliminary stages of the preparation of raw materials. Indeed, the level of the content of individual impurities affects the quality of the final product. They affect the taste characteristics, color, shelf life of the product.For this reason, the stage of purification of olive fruits, that is, refining, includes bleaching, hydration, neutralization, deodorization of the feedstock.

Only after a full cycle of preparation does the raw material go to the final stage - oil production. In modern production, two techniques are used.

1. Cold pressing is the processing of plant material by pressing. The temperature does not exceed 40ºC. This method allows you to get a product with all the useful elements. High-quality varieties of olive oil are expensive, but have a significant minus - a short shelf life.
2. Hot spin. This technology allows exposure to high temperatures (up to 120ºC). Therefore, many useful compounds simply volatilize during the processing of raw materials. But most of the nutrients remain intact. Hot-pressed oil has the best flavor characteristics. Therefore, it is such a product that culinary specialists use to prepare a wide variety of dishes. The obvious advantage of this kind of vegetable oil is its long shelf life.

Types of Olive Oil

From the description of the technologies for producing olive oil used in modern production, it is easy to understand which varieties should be preferred. In the assortment of our shopping facilities, two grades of olive oil are worthy of praise.

Extra virgin

Extra virgin is an unrefined product, which means the most expensive oil. Nutritionists recommend that patients with pathologies of the liver, stomach, and cardiovascular system include dishes with the addition of extra-virgin olive oil in the diet. A high-quality product is easily recognized by its characteristic bitterness. Virgin olive has several varieties.

Pomace (Pomace)

Oil of this class can be considered a kind of opponent to the previous version, since it is obtained by secondary extraction. In the manufacturing process, both high temperatures and solvents (most often hexane) are used. In the distribution network, the predominantly product is oil cake. The budget cost of this type of oil contributes to its popularity among buyers. Of course, this is a plus, but keep in mind that unscrupulous producers often dilute the olive product with cheap rapeseed oil for profit.

Which oil is better: refined or unrefined

Given all of the above, it is easy to understand what type of oil will bring maximum benefits. Of course, the leader in positive properties is the unrefined product obtained in the process of cold pressing.

The hot-pressing technique allows you to get products that are much cheaper, but such varieties of oil do not have such an impressive array of useful qualities. But for cooking delicious food, they are most suitable.

Of course, there are a number of criteria by which you can determine the cons and pros of refined and unrefined types of olive oil. But one thing is easy to understand: a quality product will always be expensive. After all, high-performance oil is the result of manual labor.

Why olive oil is bitter

In a detailed description of the technology for producing an olive product, it was noted that the presence of a bitter taste is characteristic of some varieties. But a similar sign only confirms the high quality of the oil, since it is obtained by cold pressing, which is very appreciated. If you carefully study the text on the product label, then, most likely, it will be found that its acidity is below 1%. The minimum indicator of this parameter indicates the healing properties of the oil. That is, the product with bitterness is not intended for frying, it is better to use it fresh: dress salads, make additives to dishes.

If the cooking process is already running, and the oil gives an unpleasant bitterness, you should not be upset, because the heat treatment will remove the unwanted aftertaste.True, at the same time, the mass of useful properties will also disappear. Therefore, when choosing a product, you need to proceed for what purpose it is bought. It is recommended to use oil with a taste of bitterness immediately, and not to store the bottle for special cases.

What is the difference between olive oil and sunflower

Natural oils of different types differ primarily in their composition. If we compare the sunflower oil and the product obtained from the fruits of olive, the difference will be significant.

1. Fats. Olive oil is 70% oleic acid, which combines omega-6 and omega-3 fats in harmony. It is known that these components are the main building material of cells. In the product of sunflower seeds, the content of this component is 50%. This is why nutritionists advise frying food in olive oil.
2. Share of vitamins. In an olive product many times more vitamin components. Especially in it there is a lot of vitamin K necessary for the synthesis of bone protein. The content of sunflower grains is three times higher than the content of tocopherol (vitamin E).

Differences in the balance of trace elements in different types of vegetable oil are noted. Therefore, you should never argue that one type of oil is better, and the other loses to it according to certain indicators. Both products are able to complement each other if they are properly included in the diet.

Composition and calorie content

The energy value or calorie content of any product is critical when it comes to a weight loss program. But, as a rule, people on a strict diet keep a special diary in which the number of calories consumed is regularly noted. Of course, olive oil cannot be called a low-calorie product, since the energy capacity of 100 grams is 884 kcal, that is, 1 tablespoon "weighs" as much as 120 kcal.

To list completely all the components of the composition of oil from olives is a very time-consuming procedure. Therefore, we dwell on the main ingredients from this list:

1. Monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic).
2. Saturated fatty acids (steatico, palmitic).
3. Phenolic compounds.
4. Substance of praise (prevents the development of oncology).
5. Sterols - the components of this group are found only in olive oil, they are responsible for cholesterol.
6. Vitamin range (extra-class olive oil contains the most complete set of vitamins).
7. Terpene alcohols.

Such a rich set of useful elements provides a positive impact on the work of almost all organs and systems of the human body. This complex, like an electric battery created by nature, charges with energy. It is important only to correctly determine when the body will need a new “recharge”. In other words, any natural product will bring maximum benefit only with its reasonable use. If in a fit of fanaticism a person begins to add olive oil to all dishes, and to strengthen the result he will still take it on an empty stomach in the morning, then even such a useful product will cause a serious blow to health.

What is useful olive oil

It is very difficult to make a detailed list of all the beneficial properties of natural olive oil, because in the human body all processes are interconnected. This means that with positive changes in the work of one system, shifts in the work of other important organs will be mandatory. For example, if you can stabilize blood pressure, the pressure on the vessels will decrease. Regarding the usefulness of olive oil, the main properties of the product can be distinguished:

General benefit

1. Improves intestinal motility, which helps to solve a number of problems with gastrointestinal diseases.
2. It has antioxidant properties, so it is recommended to use the product for effective cleansing, treatment of constipation, and elimination of congestion.
3. Due to the content of vitamin B group, oil has a positive effect on the state of the nervous system, helps to establish normal sleep.
4. As a prophylactic for oncology, olive oil is an ideal option, since it contains components that can block the growth of foreign cells.
5. With regular intake of a high-quality product, memory, concentration, and intellectual abilities noticeably improve.
6. With the help of olive oil you can lose weight without harming your health.
7. The product is extremely useful for people suffering from alcohol and nicotine addiction, as it neutralizes the negative effects of toxic agents.

To what has already been said, it is worth adding that the body of patients after complex operations and serious diseases is greatly weakened, and therefore needs additional servings of useful substances. Olive oil can compensate for the lack of vitamins and other necessary elements. Scientists have proven that it can slow down aging and prevent the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Of course, a lot depends on the age of the patient, as well as his gender. We will try to understand some of the nuances of this issue.

For women

The fair sex is most interested in ways to preserve natural youth and beauty. And in this case, olive oil can provide significant assistance. There are an incredible variety of recipes for home use that will help get rid of wrinkles, freckles and other skin problems. Olive oil has a beneficial effect on the structure of the hair and activates their growth.

The product contains components that stimulate tissue regeneration. Therefore, it can be used to treat small wounds. In addition, women should use olive oil in the following situations:

1. If there is a problem with conception.
2. To stabilize the menstrual cycle.
3. With intense peeling of the dermis in any area, including on the face.
4. For preventive purposes, residents of the southern regions are advised to regularly take 20 ml of pure olive oil to prevent breast cancer.
5. During menopause, an olive product will help reduce the frequency of hot flashes, relieve irritability and pain.

For men

No less useful olive product for men's health. Even in ancient times, healers in various formulations added oil extract from olive fruits to restore the reproductive functions of men. After all, providing a powerful flow of blood to the groin area, the oil components thereby contribute to the improvement of potency. A mixture of squeezed olives with fried garlic gruel will help any man improve their sexual capabilities.

The product is very useful after a plentiful meal, accompanied by an excessive intake of strong drinks. Olive oil cleanses the liver well and quickly removes ethyl alcohol. Most men after 45 years have heart problems. Natural squeezing from olives will help cleanse blood vessels of deposits of harmful cholesterol and normalize the functioning of the entire cardiovascular system.

During pregnancy

Olive oil will help expectant mothers:

• establish regular stools;
• improve digestion and metabolism in general;
• relieve fatigue;
• eliminate heartburn;
• normalize hemoglobin levels.

A natural product has a positive effect on the condition of the developing fetus. In particular, the regular addition of oil to dishes that are present in the diet of a pregnant woman will support the proper development of the nervous system of the unborn child, as well as reduce the risk of developing defects. The product has a beneficial effect on the hematopoietic system of the fetus.

When breastfeeding

Nursing mothers need to be responsible in their diet. Therefore, many products for them during the period of feeding remain banned. But this rule does not apply to olive oil.On the contrary, pediatricians include him in the list of obligatory foods of a nursing mother.

Extra grades are recommended. Oil should be added to salads, which will maximize the preservation of useful components that, together with breast milk, will enter the baby's body. Squeezing olive fruits contributes to the rapid recovery of a woman's body after childbirth. In addition, the product due to its high content of vitamin E enhances lactation and promotes the healing of wounds and cracks in the nipples. Oil is used as an external remedy to eliminate stretch marks (striae).

For kids

Children in their first year of life are forbidden to add foods high in fat to their food, as their digestive system is not yet ready for such a rich meal. But for newborn babies, olive oil is ideal as an external remedy for diaper rash.

It can be added to children's dishes after a year, provided that the child is not allergic to this product. Of course, the minimum dosage should be observed - only a few drops (1-2) of oil. Older children can be given 3-4 drops, but it is always recommended to combine the olive product with vegetable oil.

The benefits and harms of fasting olive oil

The benefits of fasting olive oil are claimed by doctors and traditional healers. This action of the product is explained by the fact that nutrient components are better absorbed by an empty stomach. This method of application is not burdened by strict rules, but it gives amazing results if you stick to it for a long time. The complex of useful elements easily penetrates tissues, saturating them and stimulating the flow of important biochemical processes. The effect quickly makes itself felt: the skin of the face becomes younger, the hair acquires a natural shine, and the strength of the nails is restored. The basis of the positive transformations is a set of properties characteristic exclusively for olive oil.

Accepted fasting product:

• cleanses the body of toxins;
• provides conditions for better absorption of fatty acids, especially Omega-3;
• eliminates cholesterol deposits;
• localizes foci of inflammation;
• helps to lose weight;
• normalizes the function of almost all internal organs;
• stimulates the regeneration of damaged tissues.

The fasting schedule for olive oil is extremely simple, but there are a number of rules that should be followed.

1. Before taking, you can not even drink water, that is, the stomach should be empty in the literal sense of the word.
2. The initial serving is 1/2 tablespoon.
3. After consuming the oil, it is allowed to eat only after 30 minutes.
4. The standard course of wellness therapy is 3-4 weeks.
5. To make the procedure pleasant, you can combine the intake of the oil component with lemon juice or honey.

For fasting, it is recommended to purchase only cold-pressed oil.

How to take olive oil while losing weight

There are many diets for weight loss, the central element of which is natural olive oil. But the most effective and safe is the Mediterranean weight loss program. It is she who, in combination with moderate physical exertion, helps to lose extra pounds and return attractive feminine lines to the figure.

The principle of action of the olive diet is the ability of one of the main components of the product, namely oleic acid, to synthesize the substance oleletanolamide. The fact is that a person has a feeling of fullness if the concentration of this component rises. In other words, as a result of such a diet, a feeling of hunger is dulled, and a person does not try to seize the moment to eat.

It is impossible to accurately determine the time frame for maximum weight loss while following a diet with olive oil, since each organism has individual characteristics. But, as experience shows, after a month of a soft diet, weight loss will be noticeable.

The method of admission. The initial dose is one teaspoon. It is recommended to take the product on an empty stomach in the morning, about 40 minutes before a full breakfast.For maximum effectiveness, use oil with normal water. If there are problems with the liver, then it is better to combine the olive product with tomato juice. Due to the high calorie content of the oil, the amount of calories consumed should be controlled. This also applies to other dishes with his presence.

Olive oil in medicine

Doctors highly value the capabilities of natural ingredients. The unique properties of olive oil are often used in clinical practice in the treatment of a huge number of pathologies. We will tell you what abilities olive oil exhibits in various diseases.

With diabetes

For diabetics, doctors strongly recommend using exceptionally good olive oil for cooking. By research, it was possible to prove that monounsaturated acids, which form the basis of the product, are able to reduce the level of glucose and triglycerides. In addition, squeezing olives with regular use slows the progression of this serious disease.

Important: the glycemic index of olive oil is zero!

With pancreatitis

With pathologies of the pancreas, one should be extremely careful in enriching the diet with olive oil. In the period of exacerbation, it is better to completely abandon the use of this product. But during persistent remission, it is allowed to consume oil in small portions (up to 30 ml) once a day in the form of additives to main dishes. Do not drink a pure product for people suffering from pancreatitis, as this can trigger an exacerbation of the disease.

With gastritis

Therapy of gastritis necessarily includes a diet. You can localize inflammation of the gastric mucosa using olive oil. It is better to take it on an empty stomach, and then drink it with a glass of clean water. The first results of treatment are usually noted after a weekly course of therapy, but the standard course is designed for 2-3 months.

For the intestines

High-quality vegetable oil from the fruits of the olive tree has a beneficial effect on the intestines. Since the product has a mild laxative property, its use helps to establish regular stools. In addition, it is recommended to use it as a prophylactic for the prevention of inflammatory processes and oncology of the large intestine. But before using such an ambiguous product, it is still better to consult a doctor.

For constipation

With regular constipation, most people try to solve the problem with potent laxatives, which is not entirely safe for the intestines and the whole body. You can correct the situation with olive oil if you drink 25 ml each morning on an empty stomach. Herbal components of the composition activate digestion, envelop the intestinal mucous membranes, as a result of which its cleansing process easily passes.

With gout

The complex compounds that make up the cold-pressed product bring tangible benefits to patients with gout. First of all, they are able to reduce the manifestations of inflammation, which is most often expressed in severe pain and swelling. Since the composition contains a whole set of vitamins, among which there is tocopherol, olive oil improves the condition of cartilage and connective tissue. Taking this natural preparation according to the scheme of the well-known Mediterranean diet can improve the condition without potent medications. With gout, the allowable daily dose of olive oil is 1-2 tablespoons.

With colitis

In acute colitis, cold-pressed oil is included in the diet, and is also used for microclysters. This type of local treatment contributes to the rapid healing of the injured intestines. The procedure is recommended to be performed at night so that the damaged mucosa has time to absorb all the beneficial components.

In addition, any oil well lubricates the internal walls of the intestine, which greatly facilitates the passage of feces. As shown by the results of clinical studies, patients with colitis, who were regularly taken orally in a tablespoon of olive oil in the morning, managed to significantly increase the period of stable remission.

For the liver

The liver in the human body performs the function of a kind of protective barrier. Due to various diseases, these abilities are reduced, which leads to the development of various pathologies. Olive oil will help cleanse the liver of toxins and free radicals. The cleansing procedure is recommended only after the approval of a doctor. The day before, you need to switch to a vegetable diet, you can drink apple juice. On the eve of purification, you cannot eat anything.

Cleansing scheme

1. Be sure to cleanse the intestines. For this, it is recommended to put an enema.
2. Then combine in one container lemon juice (140 ml) and the same amount of olive oil.
3. Then every quarter hour you should drink 30 ml of the mixture.
4. The entire period of the procedure you need to lie on your side with a warm heating pad.

This is a hard cleansing option. The gentle method consists in daily fasting intake of a mixture of 200 ml of tomato juice and 40 ml of olive oil. Both of the procedures described here are very beneficial for the liver. They will help not only remove toxic products, but also improve the body.

With hemorrhoids

In the presence of hemorrhoids, olive oil is always included in the treatment complex. With the internal use of the product due to its special properties, it is possible to establish digestion processes and ensure regular bowel movement. An olive product is included in many topical formulations for hemorrhoids. By using such drugs, it is possible to stop bleeding, reduce swelling, and localize inflammation.

In addition, vegetable oil activates the healing process of wounds. Olive oil is used for the preparation of therapeutic microclysters and ointments. The product is necessarily included in the diet for this disease.

With cholecystitis

In acute inflammation of the gallbladder, olive oil should be used only with the permission of the doctor. Otherwise, the most unforeseen consequences may occur. It is best to use this useful product for prophylactic purposes to stimulate the outflow of bile and prevent the appearance of stones.

As in the other cases described here, olive oil can be added to food, as well as taken on a tablespoon in the morning on an empty stomach. Both methods will help maintain the functions of the gallbladder at the proper level, and with cholecystitis they will eliminate the likelihood of an exacerbation of the disease.

Traditional medicine recipes based on olive oil

Olive oil has long been used not only for cosmetic purposes, but also for the treatment of various diseases. Alternative medicine appreciates its healing properties: the correct use of the product allows you to get rid of skin problems, helps with diseases of internal organs.

Homemade Recipes

1. Vascular improvement and thrombosis prophylaxis. It is recommended to use about 1 tbsp. tablespoons of olive oil per day (use caution in chronic pancreatitis). The tool returns elasticity to the vessels, prevents the formation of blood clots. Olive oil is considered one of the best remedies for the treatment of varicose veins - it can be added to the cream for external use.
2. Treatment of duodenal ulcer. It is necessary to mix 1 glass of olive oil with a glass of aloe juice and let this mixture brew for 3 days. Then add a spoonful of natural honey, boil the composition in a water bath for 2 hours (over low heat). The prepared product should be taken 4 times a day for 1 tbsp. spoon for a month.
3. With constipation and to normalize the digestive tract. To get rid of regular constipation, take olive oil twice a day (morning and evening) for 1 tbsp. spoon for 10 days.
4. Gum disease treatment. Warm a small amount of the product in a water bath, apply to a soft toothbrush, and gently rub into the gums.To get rid of pain, rinse your gums in the morning with oil warmed up to body temperature.
5. With gastritis. In the morning on an empty stomach, drink a glass of clean water, and after 20 minutes - 1 tbsp. a spoonful of olive oil. Breakfast is available after 30 minutes. This procedure must be repeated for 2.5 months.
6. With cholecystitis. Take the drug inside, 25 ml for 10 days. It is best to do this in the morning, before eating. It is allowed to drink oil with a glass of orange or grapefruit juice.
7. Getting rid of periodontal disease. Prepare a mixture of 1 tbsp. tablespoons of olive oil and pharmacy tincture of celandine (30%). Stir the ingredients until smooth. With the prepared composition, lubricate the affected gums 2 times a day.

Olive oil in cosmetology

Many women prefer natural cosmetics to expensive products of famous brands. And olive oil is an ideal way to maintain female attractiveness and prolong youth. It is no coincidence that the first beauties of the Roman Empire and Ancient Greece applied it to the skin after baths with medicinal herbs. Today, this gift of nature, called olive oil, is actively used for home treatments. As an example, we offer several simple recipes, the effectiveness of which is confirmed by successful results.

Hair masks

Olive oil can be added to various hair care products, as well as to colorings. There are many simple, but very effective masks that will restore health and beauty to curls and ensure normal hair growth.

For example, a mask of only two components will help restore a healthy shine to hair: a freshly prepared apple puree - 25 g (you can use baby food), olive oil - 10 ml. After mixing the ingredients, apply the nutrient mass to the entire surface of the hair, leave for 20 minutes, and then rinse.

Face masks

To maintain the beauty of funds, you should not regret it. Therefore, for home procedures, it is reasonable to buy only a product of excellent quality. In a duet with honey, cold-processing oil moisturizes, nourishes, smoothes wrinkles. In a word, even a single procedure gives an amazing result.

The sequence of manipulation: heat a teaspoon of honey, add the yolk, and then another tablespoon of olive oil. Apply the composition evenly on the face, and after 15 minutes wash off. This recipe is universal: suitable for any skin type.

Olive oil for eyelashes and eyebrows

Experienced beauties know that you can increase the volume of eyelashes without using mascara. A special mask for cilia and eyebrows will perfectly cope with this task.

Everything is extremely simple: 10 ml of the main component (oil) must be mixed with the same amount of chamomile broth, then add 5 g of petroleum jelly. The nutrient mixture is applied with a brush to the eyebrows and eyelashes to the very tips. After 15 minutes, the mask can be washed off.

For hands and nails

The condition of female hands and nails says a lot. Therefore, you must take care of them.

To keep your hands always attracted by a well-groomed look, it is enough to perform a simple procedure twice a week: grease them with olive oil at night, and then put on cotton gloves over them. During a night's rest, the nutrients absorb well into the nail plates and skin of the hands.

Is it possible to fry in olive oil

Much has been said above about the intricacies of olive oil production. The fundamental differences between different varieties of products affect their area of ​​application. As for culinary purposes, the use of first cold-pressed oil as a salad dressing will bring maximum benefit. Olive oil is an excellent choice for frying, a product that is a combination of unrefined and refined oil. It can be cooked at temperatures up to 180ºC, that is, you can fry potatoes, eggs. When cooking using higher temperatures, it is better to choose refined varieties of olive oil. They do not lose their taste, do not burn.

Harm and contraindications

Undoubtedly, olive oil, when used wisely, will bring tremendous benefits to humans.But we must not forget about the pitfalls that can cause significant harm. To avoid this, the following rules must be observed:

1. Do not exceed the prescribed portion of the product.
2. Use only good quality oil with an effective shelf life.
3. Always consider the possible risks, and if there are contraindications, abandon any type of use of this product.

The list of contraindications is small. The use of olive oil should be discarded:

• in the presence of intolerance to the product;
• if there is an exacerbation of cholecystitis, gallstone disease, pancreatitis;
• with obesity of the last stage.

Young children should also limit the presence of this type of oil on the menu. As already mentioned, one should always adhere to a measure, otherwise the abuse of olive oil can lead to diabetes mellitus and other disorders of the digestive system. The most serious consequence of immoderation is fatty hepatosis.

Can olive oil be given to dogs

Many caring pet owners find it necessary to add additives to their pets ’diet, such as vegetable oils. It should be noted that four-legged friends adore such a treat. Moreover, if the dog has excess weight, olive oil can help in the process of losing weight. In addition, this unique product has many beneficial properties.

• Reliably protects the animal’s immune system.
• Extends the years of his life.
• Improves brain function.
• Provides a boost of energy for an active life.
• Improves the quality of the coat and vision of the animal.

How to choose and where to store olive oil

The best grades of oil pass strict quality control. Moreover, all indicators should not go beyond the standards adopted for this product. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to find really high-quality olive oil for sale, since the production of such varieties is limited. But POMACE oil can be easily found on the shelves, even in rural stores. Although this type of product is inferior in many respects to extra class oil, it is ideal for preparing tasty and wholesome food.

When choosing oil, you should pay attention to the indicator of acidity and additives. It must be remembered that the less impurities, the better the product. Store high-quality olive oil for a long time and can not be in the refrigerator. It must be used quickly, and it is recommended to store it in a dark place. Only frying varieties are subject to long-term storage.

How to check for authenticity

At home, determining the authenticity of the oil is difficult, but possible. There are several tried and tested methods.

1. First, you need to evaluate the color of the product. High-quality oil without impurities will have a pronounced greenish tint.
2. The second is taste. The bitterness of natural oil has already been mentioned above. This attribute is the best confirmation of the high quality of the product.

True, unscrupulous businessmen today change both the color and taste of products. Therefore, for authentication, put the oil in the refrigerator for several hours. If the contents of the container becomes cloudy and thickens, the product is natural.

There is another test method: soak the wick with oil, and then set it on fire. Extra-class product will burn with an even, clean flame. Fake oil will not catch fire at all, but will only smolder.

Interesting facts about olive oil

In addition to the above information, I would like to give a few facts that will be interesting to curious people.

1. Archaeologists have found that olive oil was widely used at the dawn of human civilization. About 140 centuries ago, wealthy citizens could afford the luxury of oiling their bodies.
2. The fact that the inhabitants of the Mediterranean regions are leaders in life expectancy is a proven fact.Scientists attribute this to the fact that, for example, the Greeks consume 20 liters of olive oil per year.
3. From ancient times, the olive tree branch symbolized success, fertility and wealth. Perhaps that is why today olive oil is at the top of the list of healthy products. It is believed that if this product is dreamed in a dream, you can count on an early resolution of everyday problems.
4. Despite the fact that olive trees grow in warm regions, they are considered winter crops, since the peak of the crop falls on October - December.
5. The oldest olive tree grows in Jerusalem on the Mount of Olives. Historians claim that his age exceeds two thousand years.

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