Olive oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural cosmetic. Ancient Egyptians coated their faces and skin with cosmetics created from natural dyes and olive oil. The ancient Greeks would use olive oil to lubricate skin prior to engaging in exercise. For many cultures, olive oil has played a role in body anointment for religious purposes or has been a natural way to beautify a person. Extra virgin olive oil is one of the purest ways to hydrate the skin.
Everyone knows that olive oil is a delightful cooking oil. People use olive oil in salads and for dipping vegetables or fruits. They use it to fry foods and to create delicious sauces. When it comes to cooking oil, extra virgin olive oil is the very best on the market. What many people do not know is that olive oil has many natural benefits for the human body. It contains vast amounts of vitamin E and antioxidants which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals in the environment. Exchanging butter or margarine for olive oil in daily use can actually lower cholesterol levels and restore the body's cells. Eating just a few teaspoons of olive oil each day can lower the risk of many cancers and provide essential nutrients for the skin and the hair.