The Olive Oil
History of the olive tree
The history of the olive tree goes back many thousands of years. The first evidence of the cultivation of the olive tree and the existence of olive oil comes from various archaeological finds (fossilized olive leaves) from around 50-60,000 years ago. The exact origin of the olive has not been identified with certainty, but it is thought to have originated in the Middle East. The Greeks were the first civilisation in the European Mediterranean area to start cultivating the olive tree. After the 6th century BC it started to spread to the surrounding areas of Greece, Sicily, Italy and then throughout the rest of the Mediterranean. It is a tree that grows even in stony, barren soils and can withstand strong winds
The olive tree in mythology
The olive tree is an integral part of Greek mythology. According to the ancient myth of Athena and Poseidon, Athena gave the ancient Greeks the most precious gift – an olive tree, which was used for food, health, warmth and beautification. Since then the olive tree has been a sacred tree and is under the protection of the goddess Athena.
The olive tree in sport
Since ancient times, the olive tree has been of great importance in sports. More specifically, it has three different properties, it functioned as a muscle relaxant, as a cleanser and was the symbol of glory. Even today, in the Olympic Games, the winners of the Marathon are crowned with a wreath made of an olive branch.
The olive tree as a symbol
Since ancient times, the olive tree has been of great importance in sports. More specifically, it has three different properties, it functioned as a muscle relaxant, as a cleanser and was the symbol of glory. Even today, in the Olympic Games, the winners of the Marathon are crowned with a wreath made of an olive branch.
Beneficial Properties
In addition to its delicious taste, olive oil has a wealth of beneficial properties. It has a high content of vitamin E which contributes significantly to the protection of cells from oxidation and the maintenance of skin health. Its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids helps reduce the risk of heart disease. It also has antioxidant properties, protecting cells from various inflammations and helping to prevent certain types of cancer. In addition, it is beneficial to digestive health and improves the functioning of the digestive system. It is also an effective support for those who wish to achieve weight loss as the monounsaturated fats it contains help to achieve a feeling of fullness.
