Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day is celebrated on September 30 each year. While you might think every day is about olive oil, this day is set aside to honor one of the finest products available. Olive oil not only tastes great but is also healthy. It’s known for its good fats and high levels of compounds that reduce inflammation and act as antioxidants. How much olive oil is best for you depends on factors like your size and how active you are.
History of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day
Extra Virgin Oil Day celebrated an age-old “superfood.” The history of olive oil goes back to ancient times. People in the Mediterranean once believed olive trees were gods’ gifts.
According to legend, when Athens was founded, the goddess Athena planted the olive tree to win the favor of the city’s people over the god Poseidon.
Ancient Greeks Thought olive trees were divine because they provided a yearly harvest of delicious fruit for food, lighting lamps, cosmetics, medicine, and more.
Greeks thanked their gods for olive cultivation and even had a god named Aristaeus, who was honored for safeguarding olive groves. In Judaism, olives are also highly valued and are considered one of the seven special fruits blessed by Israel.
There is a mitzvah (commandment) to bring olives and other fruits to the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. A special blessing is recited when eating these fruits. Although it’s unclear if olive trees were truly a divine gift, we know a lot about the early history of olive oil and its benefits.
| 2500 B.C. (Olive Oil is First Used) | It is first used as lamp fuel and in religious ceremonies in the Mediterranean. |
| 2000 B.C. (Olive Oil is First Cooked) | It is first used in cooking. |
| 1450 (Olive oil enters its golden age) | It entered its golden age with the Greeks, as they used it for food, fuel, skin lotion, contraceptives, detergents, preservatives, pesticides, perfume, and adornment. |
| 2019 (World Olive Day is Created) | The International Olive Council celebrates the first anniversary of World Olive Day since its creation by UNESCO. |
Seven Advantage Of Olive Oil
Skin Health: Olive oil’s moisturizing and antioxidant properties make it beneficial for the skin. It can help keep the skin hydrated, protect against oxidative damage, and may reduce the appearance of aging signs. It’s often used in skincare products and as a natural remedy for dry skin.
Detoxes the liver: Daily consumption of olive oil aids liver function by acting as a natural laxative and promoting bile production.
Strengthens the immune system: Extra virgin olive oil boosts the immune system because it’s rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
Promotes heart health: Studies show that eating more than half a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil daily can reduce the risk of heart disease and cardiovascular issues.
Enhances brain function: Olive oil supports better memory and helps protect against mental conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and depression.
Lowers blood sugar: It helps manage type 2 diabetes by stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Heart Health: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering bad LDL cholesterol levels while raising good HDL cholesterol. It also contains antioxidants like polyphenols that can reduce inflammation and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day on September 30 is not just a celebration of a culinary staple but a tribute to its rich history and numerous health benefits. From its divine origins in ancient Mediterranean cultures to its modern-day acclaim as a superfood, olive oil has played a significant role in both cuisine and wellness.
Its remarkable qualities, such as enhancing skin health, detoxifying the liver, boosting the immune system, and promoting heart and brain health, make it a vital addition to any diet. By recognizing this special day, we honor not only the tradition but also the science behind one of nature’s most cherished gifts. So, this Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day, let’s celebrate and savor the diverse benefits of this remarkable oil, integrating it into our lives for both its taste and health advantages.
Frequently Ask Question
1. What is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day?
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day is celebrated on September 30 each year to honor and recognize the exceptional qualities of extra virgin olive oil. This day highlights its historical significance and numerous health benefits.
2. Why is olive oil considered special?
Olive oil is renowned for its health benefits, including its rich content of good fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. It has been valued since ancient times for its taste, versatility, and positive impact on health.
3. What is the history behind Extra Virgin Olive Oil Day?
Olive oil has been used since ancient times, with early records dating back to 2500 B.C. Greeks and other Mediterranean cultures considered olive trees divine, and olive oil was used for various purposes including food, medicine, and religious ceremonies. The International Olive Council later established World Olive Day in 2019.
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