Olive Oil

Background: There are several types of Omega Oils, many of which are beneficial to the body: omega-3, 6, 7, and 9.

Omega 3 we get from seafood, nuts, and seeds. It is very beneficial for inflammation and the heart, and for lowering cholesterol. Omega-3 may help suppress the appetite.

Omega-6 is also found in different oils like sunflower, corn, soy, sesame, and others. Omega 6

helps support bone, hair, metabolism, and the reproductive system. It may also help suppress the appetite. Note that taking too much may increase inflammation rather than decrease it as intended.

Omega-7 is something you hear little about. It does have potential health benefits. It is typically found in fish and various nuts and seeds. It can help reduce inflammation (especially in arthritis), lower bad (LDL) cholesterol, and help burn fat. It might also reduce inflammation, help dry eye, and support cardiac and cognitive function. 

Omega 9 - The following focuses on Omega 9. Unlike the other Omegas (3, 6, and 7), our body produces some Omega-9. Still, supplementation is often recommended for added beneficial

effects for the body, for example, heart health, diabetes, and skin/hair health. Olive oil is rich in Omega-9, and while this particular omega is not felt to be as helpful as Omega-3, it is a good option for those who do not consume much fish.

OTHER NAMES: EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)

HISTORY: From Greece, pressing olives began about 3000 BC, to Egyptian tombs in 2000 BC

PROPERTIES:

Antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antihistamine, antibacterial, antifungal

CONSIDERED USES

Respiratory: It has some anti-inflammatory effects on the lungs and ear problems (it may help prevent swimmer's ear and soften earwax).

Cardiovascular: Decreases risk of cardiovascular disease, may help decrease atherosclerosis and possibly increase vasodilation, and lowers blood pressure

Gastrointestinal: This may help with gastrointestinal inflammation (IBD), digestion, and as a laxative.

Musculoskeletal: Osteoporosis, anti-inflammatory, rheumatoid arthritis, bone health

Neurologic: May help prevent the progression of Parkinson's

Skin: Skin allergy may help with some wound healing, eczema, psoriasis, and some have antifungal properties

Glucose: Improved insulin sensitivity may help prevent diabetes in some people

Cholesterol: Helps increase good (HDL) cholesterol and decrease bad (LDL)

Immunity: May help fight off infection

Cancer: May help decrease the risk of cancer (especially bladder)

Other: Numerous phytochemicals (plants with many health benefits)

Side Effects: Heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, headache, body odor, contact dermatitis/irritation when used on the skin, allergic reaction

Cautions/Contraindications: Antidiabetic drugs (may cause blood sugar to go too low), Some blood pressure medications, and diuretics (may cause low blood pressure). Caution with blood thinners

Forms: Preferably extra virgin oils, greenish color, creams, enemas (olive color does not matter)

Note: Note: The olive oil that tends to have the most health benefits is extra virgin olive oil. The"light taste" of olive oils tends to be from more processed oils. Krill oil tends to have more Omega-3, is reportedly as efficacious as extra virgin olive, and is more easily absorbed.

Note: olive oil can make a very effective base (carrier oil) for aromatherapy, especially when used topically.

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

• California Olive Ranch® 100% California Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Medium (available at some retail stores)

• California Olive Ranch® Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Everyday Blend (available at some retail stores)

• Life Extension® California Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil (order through Life Extension link here)

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DOSAGES: As directed

The following are reported doses and may NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources, i.e., WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, ConsumerLabs, German Commission E, NIH publications, and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

• General: 25-40 ML by mouth daily

• Enema: 100-250

• Ear: 2-3 drops 1 to 2 times daily

Recommendations: Note the harvest date if listed (it loses some nutrients after six months), the area it comes from, and the olive type when you buy this. Become a connoisseur of olive oils!

Question: What is the difference between plain olive oil and extra virgin olive oil?

Regular olive oil is processed with heat or chemicals, removing some of its health benefits—antioxidants and nutrients. So, the best olive oil will be the [unprocessed] extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), but some are pretty "fishy" tasting. It's a trade-off.

Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.