Olive Oil

The Nutrient-Rich Healer — Olive oil nourishes, protects, and fortifies the skin, body, and mind with a powerhouse blend of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins.

Cautions

Skin Sensitivity: Rare, but some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Storage: Store in a cool, dark place to prevent rancidity, as exposure to heat, air, and light can degrade its quality.

Known Chemical Constituents

Fatty Acids: Oleic acid (omega-9), palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid (omega-6).

Vitamins: Vitamin E (tocopherols) and Vitamin K.

Polyphenols: Hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and tyrosol, which provide powerful antioxidant benefits.

Sterols: Beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol, supporting heart and skin health.

Botanical Description

Source: Extracted from the fruit (olives) of the olive tree (Olea europaea) through cold pressing to retain its rich nutrients.
Color and Texture: Golden yellow to green, with a rich, smooth, and slightly thick texture.
Aroma: Mild, fruity, and earthy, with subtle grassy undertones.

Fun Facts

Olive trees can live for thousands of years, with some ancient trees still producing olives today. The oldest known olive tree is over 3,000 years old and still bears fruit.

Parts Used

Fruit (olives) of the olive tree

Harvest

Olives are harvested from autumn to winter. The fruit is cold-pressed to extract extra virgin olive oil, the highest quality form.

Preparations

Herbal-Infused Oils: Used as a carrier oil for infusions with herbs like calendula and lavender.

Massage and Body Oil: Applied as a warming, hydrating massage oil for dry or irritated skin.

Hair and Scalp Treatments: Used as a pre-wash treatment to strengthen hair and nourish the scalp.

Soap Making: Used as the primary ingredient in Castile soap.

Salves and Balms: Blended with beeswax and herbal infusions to create soothing, protective salves.

Sacred Rituals

Anointing Ritual — Place a small amount of olive oil on your fingertips and anoint your forehead, heart, and palms as a symbol of protection, peace, and abundance. As you do this, repeat the affirmation: “I am abundant, protected, and nourished by the wisdom of the Earth.”

Affirmations

“I am abundant, protected, and nourished by the wisdom of the Earth.”

Spiritual Associations

Abundance and Prosperity: Symbolizes abundance, peace, and prosperity, as the olive branch is a global symbol of peace.

Protection: Represents protection and security, both energetically and physically, through its role as a barrier oil.

Wisdom and Longevity: Embodies wisdom, patience, and longevity, as olive trees can live for over 1,000 years.

Functions