Surprising uses for Olive Oil

I have always touted the health benefits of eating olive oil but today I also use it to nourish my hair, condition my skin and polish my furniture.

Olive oil is mainly made up of monounsaturated fatty acids, void of cholesterol. It also contains antioxidants and vitamin E. For the maximum flavor and health benefits, buy extra virgin olive oil. Heat, light, and air all affect olive oil in a negative way so it is best stored in sealable metal tins or dark glass bottles away from light and heat. 

My mother insisted that we swallow a tablespoon of olive oil a day to keep our digestive systems lubricated and our hair and skin moisturized but apart from ingesting it discover some other surprising ways I use olive oil.

1. LIFELESS HAIR

If your hair is dry and brittle try warming 1/2 cup olive oil, and then liberally applying it to your hair. Cover your hair with a plastic grocery bag and wrap it in a towel. Let it set for 45 minutes, then shampoo and thoroughly rinse. Your hair will shine and feel silky and soft. 

2. BODY SCRUB

Add a cup of olive oil to 1 cup of salt or fine sugar and use in the shower as a total body scrub. Leaves your whole body smooth, soft and moisturized.

3. ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Acne products can be drying and harsh; make a paste mixing 4 tablespoons salt with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Gently exfoliate your face and leave it on for a minute or two then rinse it off with warm, soapy water. If you apply daily for week 1, then cut back to two or three times a week you should see a noticeable improvement in your condition. 

4. ANTIQUE FURNITURE

My mother always told us to rub food spills into the old dining table. Restore your old furniture by combining 2 parts olive oil and 1 part lemon juice in a clean recycled spray bottle, shake it up, and spritz on. Leave on the mixture for a minute or two, then wipe off with a clean terry-cloth or paper towel. 

5. LEATHER 

Work oil into your faded leather couch, cracking baseball glove, tired pocket book, belt or wallet and leave for 30 minutes then wipe off excess with a soft cloth.

written by Marjolein Brugman

Marjolein Brugman is the founder of lighterliving and Aeropilates. “lighterliving is a movement and lifestyle choice we can all make. Let’s make it simple – make one decision a day to be better and watch the small steps lead to big changes. Eat smart, stay active, and you’ll live to feel a lighter life."