Olive oil has many uses. Is the cult oil in the Mediterranean diet due to its nutritional properties and many other countries are including olive oil in their daily diets. Not only that, but due to its antioxidant benefits, is being incorporated by many cosmetic companies as a skin care ingredient to their beauty products.

Olive oil has been used since old times. It was discovered more than five thousand years ago by the Egyptians, who just to use it for body and hair massage. Other cultures such as the Greeks, Phoenicians and Romans also discovered the beneficial properties of olive oil. The Romans and the Arabs extended and popularized its use. In those days they just to make soaps and perfumes from olive oil, as well as moisturizers to keep athlete's skin protected.

Olive oil is composed of essential fats and has many uses as a natural medicine. It comes from olive's juice and is rich in oleic acid. Is a great antioxidant with vitamin E, Poliphenols and Flavonoids. Its antioxidant action helps to prevent several diseases, such as heart related conditions and some forms of cancer. When shopping around for olive oil, always choose " extra virgin " because it hasn't been refined and conserves all its nutritional values. Don't think that it will make you fatter than other oils, is just the same, but don't use to much if you are watching your weight.

Olive oil and skin care uses

1- Because is an antioxidant it helps to protect the skin from the harmful action of free radicals, delaying aging skin.

2- It is also used as a moisturizer to maintain the skin elastic, hydrated and smooth. Try this mask at home: mix olive oil with an egg yolk and some honey. Put this mixture over your face and leave it on for fifteen minutes. Rinse with warm water.

3- As a tonic for the hair, to add shine and to keep it moisturized. This is a fantastic hair mask: mix olive oil with two eggs. Apply it over the hair and leave it on for thirty minutes. Wash as normal.

4- Good for the hands. Add some sugar to two spoons of olive oil. Rub your hands with this mixture. Rinse with warm water.

5- Strengthens the nails. Soak your nails in lemon juice and olive oil for five minutes. You could leave it overnight, but you must use some gloves.

6- If your mascara is dry add one or two drops of olive oil.

7- It can be used for body massage and can be added to the bath or to your usual skin care product.

8- Olive oil homemade recipe- Use this olive oil skin care mask recipe to moisturize and rejuvenate the skin. You will need few drops of olive oil, one egg yolk and one spoon of honey. Mix all the ingredients and apply over the face and neck. Leave it on for about twenty minutes and rinse off with warm water. Splash a little bit of cold water in your face and apply a moisturizer.