Olive oil has had its share of spotlight…from olive oil lemon shots to faulty extra virgin olive oil. However, in Palestine, olive oil has been used throughout the centuries, and the taste and quality are not like any other olive oil. With its bold flavor come heightened health benefits.
5 key benefits of olive oil
Anti-inflammatory
High-Quality Oive oil is known to have a high percentage of polyphenols. Polyphenols are compounds possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-inflammatory properties protect the heart, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and lower blood pressure.
Improves Brain health
Olive oil is shown to increase cognitive function and decrease the risk of cognitive decline.
Rich in antioxidants
Olive oil contains vitamin E and other antioxidants. These antioxidants improve skin health, immune function, and support heart and brain health.
Improves Digestion
The fat in olive oil improves the digestive tract and promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
Not all olive oils are the same
Many olive oils on the market do not possess these health benefits
Market olive oils lose many polyphenols and antioxidants due to heat processing, filtering, dilution with cheaper oils, and poor farming techniques.
While high-quality olive oil possesses these qualities:
- Single estate origin
- Harvested in the past 2 years (especially harvested from the past autumn)
- First cold-pressed | Extra Virgin Olive Oil (the first press produces the highest quality olive oil)
- Avoid olive oil that may be mixed with other cheaper oils
- Organic: comes from olives grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides
- Pungent taste
Why is Palestinian Olive Oil so Special?
Palestinian olive oil serves as a healing substance. We take care of the land, and it takes care of us
Generations of farmers pass down traditional knowledge and methods, as well as the strong relationship to the land.
Palestinian olive oil is characterized by family-run farms, small-scale harvesting, and traditional methods that preserve the quality of the olive oil and, in turn, higher polyphenol levels.
Olive trees are native to the Levant area, including Palestine, with many trees having lifespans of over 1,000 years. These trees include Nabali and Rumi trees, which are ancient heirloom varieties
Palestinian olive oil exemplifies Palestinian resistance, with many farmers cultivating their land despite numerous risks of displacement and violence from the occupation
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