Benefits of olive oil: The secret to a long life

For centuries, olive oil has been considered one of the fundamental pillars of the Mediterranean diet. Not only for its unmistakable flavor, but also for its nutritional value, its medicinal properties, and its role in the culture of the peoples surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. Today, we explore the origin of this "liquid gold" and all the benefits it brings to our health and well-being.

A little history: the origin of olive oil

Olive oil has a long history. Its cultivation dates back more than 6,000 years, with records in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. In ancient Greece, the olive tree was considered a sacred tree, a symbol of peace, wisdom, and prosperity. In fact, it is said that Athena, goddess of wisdom, offered an olive tree as a gift to the Athenians, which gave it the honor of giving its name to the city of Athens.

This oil wasn't just used in cooking. It was also used in religious rituals, in the preparation of perfumes, as a healing ointment, and even as fuel for lamps. Over time, olive oil became established as an essential ingredient in the diet and healthy lifestyle of millions of people.

Benefits of olive oil

1. Rich in antioxidants

Extra virgin olive oil contains a high concentration of polyphenols, antioxidant compounds that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body. These antioxidants are key to preventing premature aging and degenerative diseases.

Reserva Familia Ecológico EVOO is an excellent choice if you're looking for an oil with a high polyphenol content.

🔸 What does this mean to you?

Including olive oil in your daily diet can help you maintain younger-looking skin, protect your internal organs, and prevent degenerative diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

🔸 Key fact:

A tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil a day can have an effect comparable to antioxidant supplements… but 100% natural!

2. Protects the heart

Numerous studies have shown that regular consumption of olive oil helps reduce LDL (the "bad") cholesterol and increase HDL (the "good") cholesterol, thereby improving cardiovascular health. It also promotes blood vessel elasticity, reducing the risk of hypertension and heart disease.

Incorporating oils like Empeltre EVOO can be a delicious and heart-healthy habit.

🔸 Why does it matter?

Lower cholesterol means clear arteries, better circulation, and a heart that works more effortlessly. This translates into more energy, a lower risk of disease, and a longer life expectancy.

🔸 A longevity trick:

The regions where olive oil is consumed the most (such as Sardinia or Crete) have some of the highest longevity rates in the world.

3. Improves digestion

Olive oil has a mild laxative effect and stimulates bile production, which facilitates fat digestion and improves bowel movements. It's ideal for people with digestive problems or occasional constipation.

🔸 Do you suffer from heavy digestion or constipation?

A teaspoon on an empty stomach or with a high-fat meal can help you avoid the feeling of heaviness , reduce heartburn, and improve your intestinal transit.

For these cases, the Premium Double Pack (Tradition + Empeltre) allows you to alternate flavors and take advantage of different acidity profiles.

🔸 Extra tip:

Many naturopaths recommend a tablespoon of olive oil with lemon juice on an empty stomach to detoxify the liver.

4. Promotes brain health

Thanks to its monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, olive oil can help preserve cognitive function, especially in old age. It has been associated with a lower incidence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

🔸 Do you have trouble concentrating or retaining information?

Consuming olive oil regularly can improve memory, prevent cognitive decline, and reduce the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer's .

To keep your mind active, try early harvest oils like Coratina EVOO , renowned for its intensity and character.

🔸 Did you know that…?

Recent studies at Harvard University have linked olive oil consumption to a lower risk of death from neurodegenerative diseases.

5. Natural anti-inflammatory power

The oleocanthal compound present in extra virgin olive oil acts as a natural anti-inflammatory similar to ibuprofen, making it a great ally for people with chronic ailments or inflammatory diseases.

🔸 Do you have chronic pain or internal inflammation?

Including olive oil in your daily diet can help reduce systemic inflammation without the need to constantly resort to medication.

Some of our oils, such as Reserva Familia Ecológico , have a polyphenolic profile ideal for this type of benefits.

🔸 Ideal for:

People with arthritis, autoimmune diseases, or chronic intestinal inflammation.

6. Benefits for skin and hair

Applied topically, olive oil deeply moisturizes the skin, helps heal minor wounds, and soothes dry areas. On hair, it nourishes, adds shine, and reduces frizz. It's a common ingredient in natural cosmetics due to its many properties.

If you're looking for a gentle and versatile oil for natural cosmetics, Empeltre EVOO is ideal for its smoothness and low bitterness.

🔸 On the skin:

Use it as a natural moisturizer, to treat dry areas like elbows or heels, or as a gentle makeup remover that respects your pH.

🔸 In the hair:

A 20-minute warm olive oil mask restores shine, smooths frizz, and strengthens damaged hair .

🔸 Pro tip:

You can also add a few drops to your usual cream or homemade exfoliant to enhance its effect.

Uses of olive oil

• In the kitchen: Ideal for dressing salads, marinating meats, preparing sauces, or simply dipping bread. Although it's best eaten raw, it can also be used in cooking, as it withstands medium-high temperatures without spoiling.

  Tradición EVOO has a balanced profile that makes it ideal for both dressings and mild stir-fries.

• Personal care: As a natural makeup remover, hair mask, or body moisturizer. It can also be mixed with sugar or salt to create an effective homemade scrub.

• Home remedies: In some traditional homes, it is still used to soothe sore throats, treat minor burns, or even to clean or moisturize leather objects.

Olive oil is much more than an ingredient. It's a tradition, a natural medicine, and a symbol of health. Including it in our daily lives—both in cooking and in personal care—is not only a pleasure but also a smart choice for our long-term well-being. As Hippocrates, the father of medicine, said: "Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food." Olive oil fulfills both.

In our store, you can find special EVOO packs that bring together the best of Dehesa El Molinillo for everyday use or as a gourmet gift.