History of Olive Oil

The first records of consumption of olive oil dates back to more than 3,000 years ago, with some historians believing that olive trees may have originated in Turkistan and Iran based on some archeological findings. During the Greek expansion and colonisation, the Mediterranean region, North Africa and Egypt were already engaging in olive tree cultivation and oil production.

With its rich and varied history, it is no wonder that olive oil is a staple cooking ingredient in many cultures.

How the Greeks use olive oil

During ancient Greece, there was evidence that suggested that olive oil was primarily used by the rich for everything from cleaning to cooking, and even lighting their homes. Greek doctors also used olive oil to treat wounds, infections and burns.

Today, one of the more common uses for olive oil is in food for marinating, frying, or seasoning. A salad dressing that consisted of extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and honey that we use even today was invented by the ancient Greeks. 

What makes olive oil so special

While olive oil remains a pantry staple, we see an emergence of extra virgin olive oil being marketed for its superior taste derived from cold mechanical extraction without using solvents or refining methods.

The Mediterranean Diet, that advocates for the inclusion of olive oil in your diet, has earned the title of the best overall diet, according to 2023 ratings by the U.S. News & World Report. It focuses on a well-balanced diet, which is beneficial for our health in the long run. 

Consuming a diet that is rich in olive oil may also help to lower the risk of heart disease and cancer. This is due to the presence of phytonutrients such as high polyphenol in olive oil, and an elevated level of oleic acid that improves the body’s circulatory system. The extraction method also means that its vitamins, healthy fats and other natural ingredients are being retained. 

On top of its health benefits, olive oil contains antioxidant capacity such as vitamin E and polyphenols, that protects and tones the skin. That is why olive oil can be enriched with herbs for cleaning and moisturising the skin. In the sixth century, French artisans started to make soaps from olive oil, mixing the oil with ashes from sea plants.

References:
https://shop.weolive.com/we-olive-blog/the-history-of-olives-and-evoo-oil-how-did-it-start/
https://www.oliveoilemporium.com/pages/origins-of-the-olive/a-brief-history
https://blog.windstarcruises.com/history-of-olive-oil/