![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 124px 36px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 22px 22px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 24px 24px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Introduction
Internal Consumption
Benefits
Precautions
Recommended dosage
How to use
External Use
Benefits
Precautions
Recommended dosage
How to use
FAQs
References
Author Details
Last updated
29 Aug 2022 | 04:38 PM (IST)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 50px 50px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
We provide you with authentic, trustworthy and revelant information
Read our editorial policy
Olive oil
Olive oil, also known as 'Jaitoon ka tel' is a pale yellow to dark green oil. It is extensively used in cooking and as a salad dressing.
Olive oil helps to reduce high cholesterol as it lowers total and bad cholesterol in the body. It also helps in controlling diabetes by lowering the blood sugar levels and helps manage constipation due to its laxative property. Apart from these, it might also be beneficial in managing high blood pressure and rheumatoid arthritis.
Olive oil is good for skin and hair. It helps control dryness and improves overall complexion of the skin when applied daily at night. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
According to Ayurveda, Olive oil helps in balancing Vata-Kapha and slightly Pitta dosha as well. It is good for massage in babies when used along with some essential oils.
Olive oil might lower blood sugar levels. Thus, it is advisable for diabetic patients to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly while taking Olive oil so as to avoid any sudden drop in sugar levels[2][23][35][43][44].
Olive oil helps to reduce high cholesterol as it lowers total and bad cholesterol in the body. It also helps in controlling diabetes by lowering the blood sugar levels and helps manage constipation due to its laxative property. Apart from these, it might also be beneficial in managing high blood pressure and rheumatoid arthritis.
Olive oil is good for skin and hair. It helps control dryness and improves overall complexion of the skin when applied daily at night. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
According to Ayurveda, Olive oil helps in balancing Vata-Kapha and slightly Pitta dosha as well. It is good for massage in babies when used along with some essential oils.
Olive oil might lower blood sugar levels. Thus, it is advisable for diabetic patients to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly while taking Olive oil so as to avoid any sudden drop in sugar levels[2][23][35][43][44].
What are the synonyms of Olive oil?
Olea europaea, Kaau, Zaitun, Jaitun ka tel, Kaan, Julipe, Olivu, Saidun, Kandeloto, Wild Olive, Oleaster, Zaytoon, Zaytun, Zeitun, Aliv Enney, Jeeta Tailam, Oliva tela, Aliv enne, Jalapai tela, Aliv nune
What is the source of Olive oil?
Plant Based
Benefits of Olive oil
What are the benefits of Olive oil for High cholesterol?
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 12 12"%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=small}
Modern Science View
A substance known as Oleocanthal present in Olive oil has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. Also, the heart-healthy fats present in Olive oil improve the level of good cholesterol. This reduces the risk of atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup)[10][11][14].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This leads to the build-up of ‘bad’ cholesterol. Daily use of Olive oil reduces bad cholesterol as it helps digest Ama due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. These properties maintain good digestive fire and prevent the accumulation of bad cholesterol.
Tip:
1. Replace your regular vegetable oil with refined Olive oil for cooking purpose.
2. You can also use virgin Olive oil (1-2 teaspoons) as a salad dressing[27].
Tip:
1. Replace your regular vegetable oil with refined Olive oil for cooking purpose.
2. You can also use virgin Olive oil (1-2 teaspoons) as a salad dressing[27].
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Hypertension (high blood pressure)?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might help manage high blood pressure due to its antioxidant property. Olive oil can also reduce blood pressure by making nitric oxide more available in the blood. Nitric oxide relaxes narrowed blood vessels and lowers blood pressure[14].
Tip:
1. Replace your regular vegetable oil with refined Olive oil for cooking purpose.
2. You can also use virgin Olive oil (1-2 teaspoons) as a salad dressing[27].
Tip:
1. Replace your regular vegetable oil with refined Olive oil for cooking purpose.
2. You can also use virgin Olive oil (1-2 teaspoons) as a salad dressing[27].
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Constipation?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might be useful in managing constipation because of its laxative property. Olive oil lubricates the bowel and improves bowel movement. Studies suggest that Olive oil can also soften the stool, making it easier to pass through the colon[25][26].
Ayurvedic View
Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata dosha. Dietary and lifestyle imbalance may aggravate Vata in the large intestine and cause constipation. Regular intake of Olive oil helps to manage constipation because of its Vata balancing and Sara (mobility) properties. Because of these properties, Olive oil removes dryness of the intestine and helps in easy removal of stool from the body.
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Diabetes?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might help manage type 2 diabetes. This is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil reduces the breakdown of carbohydrate and lowers blood sugar levels. It also prevents the damage of pancreatic cells and enhances insulin secretion and sensitivity. A study states that oleic acid in Olive oil helps reduce fasting glucose levels[30][43].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells. This impairs the function of insulin. Olive oil helps to maintain normal sugar levels because of its Vata balancing, Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This helps to reduce Ama and corrects impaired insulin function.
Tip:
1. Replace your regular vegetable oil with Olive oil for cooking purpose.
2. You can also use virgin Olive oil (1-2 teaspoons) as a salad dressing.
Tip:
1. Replace your regular vegetable oil with Olive oil for cooking purpose.
2. You can also use virgin Olive oil (1-2 teaspoons) as a salad dressing.
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Rheumatoid arthritis?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might help manage the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis. This is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oleocanthal present in Olive oil inhibits the activity of an inflammatory protein. This reduces joint pain and swelling associated with Rheumatoid arthritis[15][33].
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Breast cancer?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might be useful as a complementary therapy in cancer treatment. Phenolic compounds present in Olive oil have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It induces apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells while leaving the non-cancerous cells unharmed. It also has anti-proliferative property and reduces the growth of cancer cells[29][31][32][44].
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Helicobacter pylori (H.Pylori) infection?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might work against H. pylori bacteria. This is due to the presence of phenolic compounds in it. Olive oil also lowers the risk of stomach ulcer and stomach cancer[24].
How effective is Olive oil?
Likely effective
Breast cancer, Constipation, High cholesterol, Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Insufficient evidence
Diabetes, Helicobacter pylori (H.Pylori) infection, Rheumatoid arthritis
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 16 16"%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=small}
Precautions when using Olive oil
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Olive oil in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Olive oil supplements if you are breastfeeding[17].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Olive oil may lower blood glucose levels. So it is generally advisable to monitor your sugar levels if you are taking Olive oil supplements along with other anti-diabetic drugs[17].
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Olive oil may lower blood pressure. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood pressure if you are taking Olive oil supplements along with anti-hypertensive drugs[14][34].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Olive oil in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Olive oil supplements during pregnancy[17].
Recommended Dosage of Olive oil
- Olive oil Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as directed by the doctor.
- Olive oil Oil - 1-2 teaspoons once a day or as directed by the doctor.
How to use Olive oil
1. Olive oil Capsules
a. Take 1 capsule of Olive oil capsule or as directed by the doctor.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water after lunch and dinner.
2. Olive oil with water
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Olive oil or as directed by the doctor.
b. Follow it by a glass of lukewarm water.
c. Take it preferably at night before going to sleep to manage constipation.
3. Olive oil in cooking
a. Use 5-6 teaspoons of Olive oil for cooking on a daily basis.
b. You can increase or decrease the quantity of oil consumption according to your diet and requirement[36].
4. Olive oil salad dressing
a. Take 2-3 cups of chopped vegetables like onion, carrot, cucumber, sweet corn, beetroot etc. in a large bowl.
b. Add 2-3 teaspoons of Olive oil to the chopped vegetables.
c. Also, add 1 teaspoon of Apple cider vinegar.
d. Add black pepper and salt as per your taste.
e. Mix all the ingredients well and have it before or during meals[8].
a. Take 1 capsule of Olive oil capsule or as directed by the doctor.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water after lunch and dinner.
2. Olive oil with water
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Olive oil or as directed by the doctor.
b. Follow it by a glass of lukewarm water.
c. Take it preferably at night before going to sleep to manage constipation.
3. Olive oil in cooking
a. Use 5-6 teaspoons of Olive oil for cooking on a daily basis.
b. You can increase or decrease the quantity of oil consumption according to your diet and requirement[36].
4. Olive oil salad dressing
a. Take 2-3 cups of chopped vegetables like onion, carrot, cucumber, sweet corn, beetroot etc. in a large bowl.
b. Add 2-3 teaspoons of Olive oil to the chopped vegetables.
c. Also, add 1 teaspoon of Apple cider vinegar.
d. Add black pepper and salt as per your taste.
e. Mix all the ingredients well and have it before or during meals[8].
Benefits of Olive oil
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Eczema?
Modern Science View
Eczema is a skin condition that makes the skin rough, inflamed and itchy. Although not enough evidence is available, Olive oil might help in case of red itchy skin in case of eczema.
Ayurvedic View
Regular application of Olive oil on the affected area helps to reduce roughness and itching. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) property. It also heals blisters due to its Ropan (healing) nature.
Tip:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Olive oil.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon Coconut oil.
3. Apply to the affected area twice a day.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Olive oil.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon Coconut oil.
3. Apply to the affected area twice a day.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Psoriasis?
Modern Science View
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, autoimmune disease that causes dry, red, scaly patches and flakes on the skin. Olive oil might be useful in psoriasis. This is due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Olive oil helps to reduce skin rash, dryness and inflammation associated with psoriasis[41].
Ayurvedic View
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and buildup of dead cells on the skin which makes the skin dry and scaly. Olive oil helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing due to its Ropan (healing) properties. It also reduces dryness and roughness of the skin because of its Snigdha (oily) and Picchila (sticky) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Olive oil.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon of Honey or Coconut oil.
3. Apply to the affected area twice a day.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Olive oil.
2. Mix it with 1 teaspoon of Honey or Coconut oil.
3. Apply to the affected area twice a day.
4. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Earwax?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might help remove the build-up of ear wax. Application of Olive oil can soften the earwax in the outer ear canal making it easier to remove.
Tip:
1. Apply warm Olive oil on the outer side of the ear.
2. Keep it for some time and then gently remove the wax[38][39].
Tip:
1. Apply warm Olive oil on the outer side of the ear.
2. Keep it for some time and then gently remove the wax[38][39].
What are the benefits of Olive oil for Ear infection?
Modern Science View
Olive oil might be useful to manage ear pain caused by an infection. A study states that ear drops containing Olive oil have antibacterial property. They can help reduce infection and pain associated with ear infection in children[40][43].
How effective is Olive oil?
Likely ineffective
Ear infection, Earwax
Insufficient evidence
Eczema, Psoriasis
Precautions when using Olive oil
Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Avoid Olive oil in body massage if your body has excessive Pitta.
Recommended Dosage of Olive oil
- Olive oil Oil - 1-2 teaspoons or as per your requirement.
How to use Olive oil
1. Olive oil with moisturizing cream
a. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Olive oil in any moisturizing cream.
b. Apply it to your skin once a day to improve your complexion and to control wrinkles.
c. Kindly consult your doctor if you have oily and acne prone skin.
2. Massage with Olive oil
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Olive oil.
b. Warm it a bit and massage on the painful area once or twice a day.
c. Repeat daily to manage pain and swelling associated with arthritis[23].
3. Olive oil with Lemon juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Olive oil.
b. Squeeze ½ Lemon into it and mix well.
c. Apply it on your skin, preferably before going to bed to control acne scars.
d. Avoid going outside in the sun after applying this mixture as it can tan your skin. This is because lemon acts as a natural bleaching agent.
e. Best time to apply this mixture is at night[7].
a. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Olive oil in any moisturizing cream.
b. Apply it to your skin once a day to improve your complexion and to control wrinkles.
c. Kindly consult your doctor if you have oily and acne prone skin.
2. Massage with Olive oil
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Olive oil.
b. Warm it a bit and massage on the painful area once or twice a day.
c. Repeat daily to manage pain and swelling associated with arthritis[23].
3. Olive oil with Lemon juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Olive oil.
b. Squeeze ½ Lemon into it and mix well.
c. Apply it on your skin, preferably before going to bed to control acne scars.
d. Avoid going outside in the sun after applying this mixture as it can tan your skin. This is because lemon acts as a natural bleaching agent.
e. Best time to apply this mixture is at night[7].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Olive oil can be stored at normal room temperature in a dry and dark place. However, it may deteriorate if kept in humid and hot conditions[21][23].
Modern Science View
Price of Olive oil may vary from brand to brand. The price for a 1 litre Olive oil bottle used for cooking is around Rs. 600. The price of Figaro Olive oil (1 litre) bottle is about Rs. 550 and extra virgin Olive oil (500 ml) is priced at about Rs. 400.
Modern Science View
Extra virgin Olive oil is produced by mechanical pressing instead of chemical mode. Its flavor is tasted before certification and its acidic content is less than 0.8%. Extra virgin Olive oil has several benefits and can be used for skin, hair as well as in cooking[22].
Modern Science View
Pomace Olive oil has several uses such as it is good for skin and hair. It is also useful for cooking purposes.
Modern Science View
Yes, Olive oil can be taken daily. Olive oil has strong antioxidant property. It reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. But, you should consume Olive oil in moderation (1-2 tablespoon daily) and consult your doctor if needed before taking[18][28][37].
Modern Science View
Yes, Olive oil can protect you from various microbial infections. Olive oil acts against bacteria that cause intestinal and respiratory infections[14][24].
Modern Science View
Yes, regular consumption of Olive oil might help manage depression. Olive oil might increase the amount of serotonin, a chemical which can lower depression[12][13].
Ayurvedic View
Vata governs all the movement in the body and the actions of the nervous system. Depression occurs when our Vata dosha is imbalanced. Regular use of Olive oil helps to control depression because of its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Olive oil can be used to reduce pain due to its anti-inflammatory property. Olive oil contains a substance known as oleocanthal which inhibits the activity of pain mediators. This reduces pain and inflammation in the body[15][16].
Ayurvedic View
In Ayurveda, pain is known as Shoola roga and is caused due to an aggravation of the Vata dosha. Regular intake of Olive oil helps to balance Vata dosha and thus minimizes pain.
Modern Science View
Olive oil is good for skin due to its antioxidant property. It also contains vitamin A, D, E and K which protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation and keep the skin moisturized[7][14].
Ayurvedic View
Olive oil is good for the skin because of its properties like Snigdha (oily), Ropan (healing) and Rasayana (rejuvenating). Olive oil gives a natural glow to the skin when used on a daily basis.
Tip:
1. Take 3-4 drops of Olive oil in your palm.
2. Massage well on the face using your fingertips.
3. Apply in the night daily for a uniform skin tone.
Tip:
1. Take 3-4 drops of Olive oil in your palm.
2. Massage well on the face using your fingertips.
3. Apply in the night daily for a uniform skin tone.
Modern Science View
Yes, regular application of Olive oil can help fight aging. Olive oil has polyphenols and vitamin E and K which have strong antioxidant property. It helps protect the skin from premature aging by reducing fine lines and wrinkles[42].
Tip:
1. Take 3-4 drops of Olive oil.
2. Apply on your face and massage using your fingertips for 5-10 minutes.
3. Repeat daily at night before going to bed.
Tip:
1. Take 3-4 drops of Olive oil.
2. Apply on your face and massage using your fingertips for 5-10 minutes.
3. Repeat daily at night before going to bed.
Modern Science View
There is very less scientific evidence to support the role of Olive oil in hair care. The primary chemical elements present in Olive oil are oleic acid and palmitic acid. These are considered to act as good emollients, which means they have softening qualities. Regular application of Olive oil helps to moisturize and strengthen your hair[45].
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 teaspoons of Olive oil or as per your requirement.
2. Warm the oil for some time.
3. Apply this warm oil on the scalp and hair and massage well for 10-15 minutes.
4. Keep it overnight and wash the next morning using a shampoo.
5. Repeat atleast once a week for silky and shiny hair.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 teaspoons of Olive oil or as per your requirement.
2. Warm the oil for some time.
3. Apply this warm oil on the scalp and hair and massage well for 10-15 minutes.
4. Keep it overnight and wash the next morning using a shampoo.
5. Repeat atleast once a week for silky and shiny hair.
Modern Science View
Even though Olive oil does not play a role in skin whitening, it contains a substance that protects the skin against the harmful ultraviolet radiations thereby acting as a natural sunblock. It also has antioxidant properties that protect the skin against oxidative damage of the sun. This helps maintain the natural skin colour and prevents tanning[46].
Ayurvedic View
Even though Olive oil does not play a role in skin whitening, it protects the skin against harmful UV rays of the Sun and sunburn. When applied to the skin it acts as a natural sunscreen and helps maintain the natural skin colour as well as prevents darkening of skin. This is due to its Ropan (healing) nature.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, applying Olive oil can help reduce dryness and chapped lips. It is usually used in cosmetic products like lip balms[47].
Ayurvedic View
Olive oil is good for the skin and helps to manage dry, chapped lips because of its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties that help to maintain the softness of the skin and heal chapped lips.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.