• Olive oil in the kitchen
• Use of olive oil

Since ancient times, olive oil has been a staple product in food preparation, for personal care purposes, and as a substance with medicinal benefits. Olive oil has a wide range of uses, both culinary and cosmetic—no wonder, then, that it has become an indispensable part of most kitchens and pantries around the world.

Olive oil in the kitchen

Due to its high content of valuable fatty acids, olive oil offers a wide range of culinary applications. It can be used for salting, frying, stewing, or boiling. Opinions are divided on whether extra virgin olive oil is safe for frying, as some experts say it negatively affects the structure of fatty acids. Others emphasize that monounsaturated fatty acids (which are present in high concentrations in olive oil) are not broken down during thermal processing, making it one of the best fats for frying.

The use of olive oil in cooking isn't limited to frying—it can be added to baked goods, interchangeably with margarine or butter. Its unique flavor and aroma pair perfectly with various herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary, as well as garlic, hot paprika, and black pepper. Extra virgin olive oil pairs best with fresh vegetables, cheese, salads, and bread. It also makes an excellent base for creating an easily digestible vegan menu.

Use of olive oil

Olive oil, however, offers uses not only in cooking but also in cosmetics. In many countries, it is traditionally used for hair, skin, and nail care, providing them with the right lubrication and hydration. You can safely use olive oil as part of your daily facial care routine—for removing makeup, as a base for clay masks, and for moisturizing the skin. The same applies to the rest of your body.

Pure olive oil or combined with other oils such as flaxseed or jojoba is ideal for at-home beauty treatments applied all over the body. High-quality olive oil, used regularly in hair care, is highly effective—from soothing the scalp to moisturizing the ends to restoring hair elasticity.

Olive oil can therefore be used both internally as part of a balanced diet and externally – in the form of compresses, masks, and scrubs. It is rich in antioxidants, which makes it so effective as a skincare product. Its vitamin E and K content protects the body both internally and externally, supports the circulatory system and heart, regulates cholesterol levels, and prevents the formation of blood clots.

Unsaturated fatty acids effectively support metabolism and remove toxins from the body. Olive oil also extends its applications to issues related to maintaining a healthy weight and even weight loss. Regulating digestive processes, combined with appetite suppressants and physical activity, can act as an effective catalyst for accelerating weight loss. There are many uses for olive oil—both in the kitchen and outdoors—so it's worth trying as many as possible to see how effective they are.