The history and lore surrounding olive oil, that mediterranean liquid gold, is a fascinating and much storied one. The luscious oil dates back more than 8000 years as is attested to by the accidental (they were excavating for a road) archaeological discovery in modern-day Israel of shards and fragments of clay pots that once contained olive oil.

The ancient Greeks used olive oil, as was recorded by Hippocrates, for many medicinal purposes. The father of modern medicine used olive oil to remedy skin injuries and wounds such as burns, infections, gynecological issues, to eliminate scars and much more. In fact Hippocrates recorded over 60 medicinal uses for the liquid gold. Many of the ancient uses for olive oil remain today and it is often used as an approved home remedy.

Olive trees were among the first plants to be cultivated and date back to a time before even written language was invented. The cultivation of olive trees led to the production of olive oil and once the Roman Empire was established olive oil became a valuable commodity and remains so today.

Those in the time of ancient Rome and civilizations around the Mediterranean region used olive oil as a cleansing agent, in religious ceremonies and to fill their lanterns. Gladiators were fed a diet that included olive oil prior to battle as it was considered a source of strength and energy.

If you’ve been to the Mediterranean region you no doubt have seen the endless and beautiful groves of olive trees that attest to the fact that the world just can’t get enough of this golden goodness.

Still A Very Coveted Commodity

The market for modern day olive oil is expected to reach a staggering 11.09 billion (US) dollars by 2025. And just what drives the popularity of this magnificent Mediterranean treasure? Well, for one thing, olive oil is absolutely delicious and can be used for cooking, in salads or drizzled on a piece of bread. And those are just a few of the culinary capabilities of olive oil.

Quality of Life Attributed to This Golden Goodness

As part of a healthy diet olive oil is proven to lower the risks of high cholesterol by contributing to the consumption of healthy fats. As a cornerstone of a healthy diet Extra Virgin Olive Oil also aids in lowering the risk of blood pressure, diabetes, certain cancers, heart disease and even depression. Is it any wonder this ancient miracle oil figures so

prominently in the Mediterranean Diet?

For anyone familiar with the popular interest in so-called Blue Zones, those areas of the world where people enjoy life and good health well into their centenarian years, it’s important to note that olive oil is a staple of their diet. In fact two of the five recognized Blue Zones are in the Mediterranean (Sardinia, Italy and Ikaria, Greece) and olive oil is an essential part of their daily diet.

The Mediterranean Diet and Its Benefits

Further underscoring the benefits of this incredible ancient oil is the fact that it is a main go-to for healthy fat sources in the Mediterranean Diet. This fantastically healthy way of eating is a favorite of healthcare professionals. In fact, for the seventh year in a row the Mediterranean Diet has topped the US News & World Report’s list of healthy ways to eat. Likewise, it is the number one diet favored by doctors by 51%. Let’s look at this popular and delicious way of eating.

Some of the more prevalent benefits, in addition to lowering weight, of the Mediterranean Diet?

• Lower risk of heart disease
• Reduced risk of stroke, especially in women
• Improved brain health
• Balanced gut health
• Reduced risk of cancer

Sound familiar? These are the same health benefits you gain by including olive oil in your diet.

Of course the Mediterranean Diet incorporates many of the fresh foods and lean proteins enjoyed by those in the region. Vegetables, legumes, certain fish, some dairy, whole grains and fresh fruit round out the ideal foods for your health.

Warm Sea Breezes and Sun Drenched Olive Groves

If you’ve been to Greece, Italy, Spain, France or any of the other countries that surround the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, you’ll recognize these foods as the ones most likely to appear on the table at meal time. Kissed by the breezes off the azure blue Mediterranean Sea and named by the sun, many of these local favorites are easily and readily available. Including the ever-present olive oil.

But you shouldn’t take our word for it. Join us on an adventure to one of these magnificent Mediterranean destinations and find out for yourself. It’s not only a wonderful trip but a great way to improve your health!