Most of us use olive oil as part of our daily cooking routine, but it is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) that should be used at home due to its health properties and rich taste. When classified as extra virgin, this olive oil is the highest in quality since it is in its purest state. The olives used for this oil have virtually no defects and maintain their fruitful taste. Derived from the first pressing of the olives, EVOO has the strongest health benefits that range from the heart to the skin yet maintains its delicate and balanced flavor.

History: Thought to have originated in Syria or Crete between five and seven thousand years ago, olives are native to the lands of the Mediterranean. The oil of the olive may have been consumed as early as 3,000 B.C. Remains of olive oil have been found in Egyptian jugs dating 4,000 years old in tombs on the island of Naxos in the Aegean Sea.

Olive oil has been used for various means, including rituals, medicines, fuel in oil lamps, soap-making and skin care application. In the Minoan civilization, olive oil was used in religious ceremonies and was thought to represent wealth.

Today, much of the cultivation of olive oil remains in the Mediterranean region. Spain, Italy and Greece are the top producers. These countries also consume two-thirds of the olive oil produced, along with the remaining European countries. South America (especially Chile) and Australia are increasing their consumption and production of olive oil, as well.

In cooking: EVOO can be used in a multitude of recipes. From dressing salads to being incorporated in cooked foods, the possibilities are endless with this ingredient. Instead of butter with bread, try dipping bread rolls in a small cup of EVOO with your favorite spices to enhance the taste; drizzle EVOO over vegetables or a salad before serving; or include it with minced garlic and Advertisement

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Benefits: EVOO has no bounds when it comes to its medical properties. As the least processed form of olive oil, EVOO has more monounsaturated fatty acids than any other oil, which benefits the heart. Including a higher amount of monounsaturated fatty acids in one’s diet has been linked to a lower risk of coronary heart disease. EVOO also contains hydroxytyrosol, a polyphenol, which has been shown to protect the cells that line blood vessels resulting in a cardioprotective result.

EVOO also embodies anti-inflammatory benefits. These benefits can be obtained with as little as 1-2 tablespoons per day. Along with bone benefits for post-menopausal women, EVOO also reduces the risk of cancers to the breast, respiratory tract, and upper and lower digestive tract.

One of the more known benefits that EVOO possesses is its moisturizing properties. When used to cleanse the skin, EVOO is a natural, deep penetration moisturizer that regenerates skin cells and softens tissue. If you would like to regain some of your youthful elegance, you may want to consider including EVOO in your daily cleansing routine.

Storage: EVOO should be stored in a location that is away from any light or heat source. To ensure the nutrients found in extra virgin olive oil remain intact, plan to use your oil within two months time. Oxidation occurs when the oil is exposed to air, so by transferring 7-10 days’ worth of storage to a smaller container you protect the flavor and antioxidants. The rest of the oil can be refrigerated. Take note that the olive oil will turn cloudy as it slightly solidifies when chilled, but will return to normal when restored to room temperature. While it is most convenient, heat damages EVOO and should therefore not be stored near the stove.

Fun Fact: With the largest per capita consumption of olive oil worldwide, over 26 liters are consumed per person per year in Greece.