Olive oil is one of the cheapest and readily available natural oils found in the Nigerian market. It is gotten from pressed ripe olives and is sold in different sizes to accommodate the budget and needs of the population. It contains antioxidants, saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins E and K and at least thirty phenolic compounds. Although most people understand that olive oil is very good to keep in the house, they might not actually know about the numerous uses of the oil. In case you belong to this category of people, here are some important uses of olive oil you did not know:
- In cooking: Olive oil is popularly used to cook various dishes to improve the flavour and aroma. Since it is rich in antioxidants, it is very beneficial to the health compared to other artificial oils containing cholesterol and bad fat. Instead of cooking with only the usual oils you are used to, why not try adding at least a teaspoon of olive oil to your cooking since it has no adverse effect on your health?
- In skin treatment: Olive oil delivers amazing benefits to the skin to make it more beautiful and healthy. It can serve as a moisturizer, cleanser and an exfoliator, it can even help in removing make-up from the face when mixed with honey and dabbed gently onto the face. The oil naturally soothes the skin and can be used in place lotions and creams containing harsh chemicals that damage the skin over time.
- In surface polishing: When next you decide to add a little shine to your furniture or work surface, try using olive oil instead of ordinary soap and water. It will serve as a good agent in making your stainless steel, pots and even shoes look brighter and smoother.
- In teeth whitening: Swishing olive oil around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes every morning will help bind the bacteria present in your mouth, giving you brighter teeth and an odor-free mouth. The important thing with this technique is to be consistent.
- In massage: Instead of buying expensive massage creams and oils that contain unknown ingredients, try using olive oil as an alternative for a great massage. You can rub the oil all over the body or just on certain areas depending on your choice. It is gentle and soothing to the skin, it will also moisturize it and protect it from premature ageing.
- In hair treatment: Olive oil can be used to improve the beauty of the hair, to treat split ends, dandruff or dry scalp. It can also be used to condition the hair, reduce hair loss and make it look shinier and healthier.
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