Although the olive tree originated in Asia, it has been cultivated for over 3,000 years in Mediterranean countries, where much of the olive crop is used to make olive oil.
One tablespoon of olive oil contains 120 calories and 14 grams of fat, but the fat is mostly monounsaturated; it has a beneficial effect on blood cholesterol levels and is easily digested. In Greece, Italy and Spain where olive oil is consumed extensively, there is a low incidence of cardiovascular diseases. The mild vegetable mucilage in olive oil protects the body's digestive tract.
Ancient civilizations used olive oil to help heal wounds . Today, it is considered a good remedy for skin problems and an effective moisturizer. In addition, the vitamin E in olive oil is an antioxidant.
Use only olive oil that is labeled "extra virgin" . This guarantees that the oil has been cold-pressed from freshly harvested olives and does not contain chemicals. Extra virgin olive oil supplies the best flavor and oil that is golden -yellow in color is of higher quality than green.
