Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Properties and Benefits

The properties and benefits of extra virgin olive oil have been known since ancient times.

Since 2010, the olive tree has been included among the elements considered Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Indeed, it has always provided sustenance and nourishment to countless families, it is rooted in the collective imagination as a symbol of hope and new life, and its fruits are powerful allies for our well-being.

Over the years, numerous scientific studies have shown that olives and extra virgin olive oil truly offer many health benefits to those who consume them regularly.

But which ones, exactly? Here are some of its beneficial properties:

• Despite containing 9 calories per gram, olive oil reduces cases of obesity in populations where its consumption is habitual.
• It is an excellent antidepressant, as it increases serotonin levels in the brain.
• Olives, and therefore extra virgin olive oil, are a natural source of vitamins A, B, C, E and mineral salts.
• Thanks to the presence of Omega 3, they help protect us from numerous cardiovascular diseases.
• They are rich in phenols, precious antioxidants.
• Olive oil is good for eyesight, helping protect it from possible degeneration.
• Monounsaturated acids help regulate blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

These are only some of the benefits of regular consumption, and the reason behind the popular saying “For aches and pains: oil inside and oil outside”. In Greek-Roman and later medieval times, olive oil was known not only as a food but also as a healing ointment, capable, for example, of soothing skin irritations and burns.

In our shop, you will find different types of extra virgin olive oils, all obtained from local olives and suitable for pairing with different dishes:

• Favola Tonda Iblea, with a fresh aroma and notes of tomato and freshly cut grass. An oil ideal raw to enhance traditional Mediterranean dishes and soups. It is also exceptional enjoyed raw on a simple slice of bread.
• Favola Opunzia, a blend of the Nocellara Etnea cultivar, typical of the area between Syracuse and Catania, and Cerasuola, typical of western Sicily. Excellent for enhancing grilled meats and vegetables.
• Favola Moresca, a delicate extra virgin olive oil with light bitterness and spiciness, excellent for salads, such as orange salad, and raw fish.
• With its intense bitterness and spiciness, Favola Cerasuola is a must on traditional Sicilian “pane cunzato”: bread cut in half, warmed, generously seasoned with EVO oil and finally topped with local ingredients such as primosale or pecorino cheese and anchovies.

A good olive oil not only encourages conviviality, but also helps us stay in shape and protect our physical and mental well-being!