Olive oil is not only a flagship culinary staple of the Mediterranean, but an emblem of the region, deeply woven in its historical landscape, cultural fabric, spiritual tapestry and economic framework, from ancient times to the modern-day, spanning across various civilizations, and becoming one of the most successful industries in antiquity. This ancient elixir has spread its golden essence across the globe over time, becoming an integral part of various cuisines and cultures, and a sizeable global industry. So what’s the secret behind the long-standing history, enduring influence and everlasting popularity of olive oil?
To unlock the mystery, it’s essential to explore olive oil’s pivotal role in culinary, medicinal and cosmetic practices across various cultures.
- Olive Oil in Mediterranean Cuisine
Olive oil takes center stage in Mediterranean cuisine, where it has been an integral and fundamental part of culinary practices since ancient times including Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans cuisines; and it has remained a key part of the diets of many cultures till present day. This golden nectar adds delicious depth and flavor to food, and is used for cooking, dressing salads, sautéing vegetables, and marinating meats… But the dietetic popularity of olive oil is credited to the Ancient Greeks, who believed the consumption of olive oil would make them stronger and healthier, which is the reason why many Ancient Greek athletes were pictured with olive oil bottles in their hands. The Ancient Greek diet was rich in vegetables, fruits, and olive oil, which helped them live long and healthy lives. This was the cornerstone of the ‘Mediterranean diet,’ the dietary style followed in various countries that have this sea as their border, and adopted since by millions around the world. This model of healthy, balanced and nutritious diet, in fact, has olive oil at its very foundation, as a veritable treasure trove of virtues. Its
distinct taste, nutritional profile, health attributes and versatile applications give olive oil a privileged position in the food pyramid. As awareness of its health benefits – recognized since ancient times – spreads, olive oil consumption continues to rise in various parts of the world. The culinary delight and versatility of olive oil allows it to complement diverse food cultures; as olive oil makes its way into different culinary traditions, it undergoes cultural adaptations. It merges with local flavors and becomes an integral part of various cuisines worldwide.
- Olive Oil in Traditional Medicine
Olive oil had a vital role in ancient medicine that recognized its potent healing properties. The Phoenicians and Assyrians used olive oil for medicinal purposes. Ancient Egyptians also used it to treat wounds and skin diseases as well as key ingredient in mummification. Ancient Greeks considered it an essential part of their medicinal practices and even used it as a primitive contraceptive. Hippocrates, often referred to as the father of medicine, called olive oil the “great healer” and praised its therapeutic benefits for various ailments including skin conditions, wounds and burns, ear infections, and more. Ancient Romans used it as an ointment to promote the healing of wounds or as an excipient to treat ulcers, colic or fever. It has been employed ever since over the centuries in traditional remedies for soothing skin conditions, relieving inflammation, and promoting digestion. In Mediterranean countries, it is still considered a natural remedy for various diseases.
- Olive Oil in Beauty and Cosmetic
Olive oil was highly prized for its moisturizing, soothing and elasticizing properties, making it a popular component of ancient beauty regimes. Olive oil was used for skin and hair care by ancient Phoenicians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Phoenicians also used it as a base for perfumes and ointments. Greek and Spartan athletes used olive oil to rub themselves before exercising at the gym or participating in games. Romans applied it to their bodies too before sporting activities to protect the skin from the sun and promote hydration. Olive oil was also commonly used in soap-making and producing perfumes. Ever since and to date, the cosmetic industry have recognized olive oil as an excellent ally for nourishing the skin, relieving skin irritations and giving vigor and strength to the hair. Olive oil can be found in moisturizers, soaps, shampoos, and other skincare products.
Leave a Reply