The Healing Power of Real Olive Oil: Why This Ancient Superfood Still Reigns Supreme
- Casey Zeck
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 25
In a world saturated with synthetic oils and hyper-processed fats, real olive oil remains one of the most powerful, time-tested staples in holistic health. Used medicinally across the Mediterranean and Middle East for centuries, this golden elixir has supported everything from digestion to detox—and yet, most American kitchens are stocked with seed oils and artificial spreads like margarine or "I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter." Meanwhile, real olive oil is quietly working its magic across Europe, day in and day out.
Let’s unpack why real, high-quality olive oil is one of the most medicinal foods on the planet—and why most options on U.S. shelves don’t cut it.
Top 20 Health Benefits of Real Olive Oil
Improves Digestion – Stimulates bile production and promotes smoother breakdown of food.
Relieves Constipation – Acts as a natural lubricant for the colon, encouraging healthy bowel movements.
Supports Liver Function – Aids in detox pathways and reduces oxidative stress in the liver.
Boosts Detoxification – Helps eliminate toxins through improved lymphatic flow and cellular function.
Strengthens Immunity – Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds to fight off illness.
Reduces Inflammation – Contains oleocanthal, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to ibuprofen.
Heart Healthy Fats – High in monounsaturated fats that support balanced cholesterol levels.
Balances Blood Sugar – Helps stabilize post-meal glucose spikes when paired with carbohydrates.
Promotes Healthy Circulation – Supports blood vessel elasticity and reduces arterial plaque buildup.
Protects Skin Health – Rich in antioxidants and vitamin E for internal and topical glow.
Supports Hormone Balance – Fats are essential for hormone production and metabolic health.
Improves Brain Function – Linked to improved memory and reduced risk of neurodegenerative disease.
Soothes Gastric Lining – Gentle on the stomach, ideal for those with ulcers or acid reflux.
Promotes Longevity – Core to the Mediterranean Diet, which is linked to long life and low chronic disease.
Reduces Risk of Stroke – Numerous studies have shown real olive oil may protect against stroke.
Fights Free Radical Damage – High in polyphenols that counter oxidative stress.
Strengthens Bones – Supports calcium absorption and bone mineral density.
Supports Weight Management – Provides satiety and reduces cravings when included in meals.
Enhances Nutrient Absorption – Helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
Improves Mood + Mental Health – Brain-supporting fats are crucial for emotional balance and cognitive clarity.
Why Most Olive Oils in America Are a Scam
Here’s the tough truth: the majority of olive oils on U.S. grocery shelves are cut with junk. Many are multi-sourced, blended with cheap seed oils, chemically deodorized, or oxidized due to poor storage. What looks like a bottle of health might be degrading your body from the inside out.
True olive oil should come from a single source, ideally from regions that don’t allow GMO crops or glyphosate spraying. Countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain have long-standing olive traditions—and it's where the magic still lives.
Enter: Olive Tree People’s Bioactive Olive Oil
Sourced directly from organic mountain groves in southern Spain, Olive Tree People’s Arbequina olive oil is in a league of its own. Unlike mass-market brands, it’s:
Cold-pressed and bioactive – No heat or refining, preserving every vitamin and antioxidant.
From organically cultivated trees – No pesticides, no chemicals, no glyphosate.
Made with the Arbequina variety – Known for its smooth, potent oil with a high antioxidant content.
Biodynamically farmed – Beyond organic, this approach respects the natural cycles of the land.
You can grab the olive oil I keep on hand for fresh dressings and recipes here. I even take a shot every single morning—a tablespoon with lemon on an empty stomach! If you’re just getting started, ease in with a teaspoon, especially if your digestion is sensitive.
The Fridge Test: Is Your Olive Oil Real?
A quick home test: put your olive oil in the fridge overnight. Real olive oil solidifies in cold temperatures due to its natural fat profile. If it stays completely liquid, there’s a good chance it’s been cut with other oils.
A Return to Ancient Wisdom
Cultures that rely on olive oil as a daily staple—whether for cooking, skin care, or healing—experience dramatically lower rates of chronic disease. The closer we return to these traditional food medicines, the more our bodies can thrive.
If you’ve been using vegetable oils or synthetics out of habit, it’s time for an upgrade. Let real olive oil do what it was designed to do: heal, protect, and nourish from the inside out.
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