Today, science is catching up with tradition. Extra virgin olive oil is now recognized not just for its place in cooking but for its wide-ranging benefits in areas like skin health, hair care, healing, and daily wellness routines.
A Timeless Liquid With a Rich Legacy
Olive oil’s use goes back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians applied it to skin for beauty and healing. Greek athletes rubbed it onto their bodies before competitions. In religious texts, olives and olive oil are symbols of peace, purity, and blessing.
So while we may see EVOO as a trendy health product today, its broader uses are deeply rooted in history. The difference is that now we also have modern research to explain why it works.
Skin Health:
One of the most celebrated uses of extra virgin olive oil beyond cooking is skincare.
1. Moisturizer for Dry Skin
EVOO is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids that lock in moisture. Unlike many commercial lotions, it hydrates without artificial chemicals. Applied directly to elbows, knees, or hands, it helps soften rough patches.
2. Anti-Aging Properties
Olive oil contains antioxidants such as polyphenols that fight free radicals — unstable molecules that accelerate aging. Regular use can reduce the appearance of fine lines and keep skin supple.
3. Soothing Sensitive Skin
Because it’s gentle and natural, EVOO can calm irritation from dryness or mild eczema. Some mothers even use diluted olive oil on babies’ skin for its softness.
4. Makeup Remover
Oil attracts oil. EVOO dissolves makeup, including waterproof mascara, while leaving skin nourished instead of stripped.
Takeaway: EVOO doubles as both nourishment for inside the body and a protective shield for the skin outside.
Hair and Scalp Care
Women and men alike have long turned to olive oil as a natural beauty ritual.
Strengthens Hair: Its fatty acids penetrate the hair shaft, reducing breakage and frizz.
Soothes Scalp: EVOO helps calm dryness and dandruff when massaged into the scalp.
Adds Shine: A small amount rubbed onto hair tips restores natural gloss.
Protects Against Damage: With regular use, it shields hair from environmental stress.
DIY treatments are simple: warm a little olive oil, massage into scalp, leave for 20–30 minutes, then wash with shampoo.
Natural Healing and Remedies
Beyond beauty, EVOO has been used as part of home remedies for centuries.
1. Wound Soothing
Because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, olive oil has been used to gently treat small cuts or scrapes. It supports skin healing and prevents dryness around wounds.
2. Ear Aches and Wax Build-Up
Traditionally, a drop of warm olive oil was used to soften ear wax and relieve minor discomfort. (Of course, medical guidance is recommended for serious issues.)
3. Joint Massage
Blending EVOO with essential oils creates a massage oil that relieves stiffness. For people with arthritis, its anti-inflammatory compounds may bring comfort.
4. Digestive Aid
While olive oil is famous in food, small spoonfuls on an empty stomach have traditionally been used to relieve mild constipation. Its natural lubricating effect eases bowel movement without harsh laxatives.
Dental and Oral Care
An ancient practice known as oil pulling — swishing oil in the mouth — is experiencing a revival.
EVOO can be used for oil pulling to reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
Its antimicrobial effects help support gum health.
Regular use may even reduce plaque buildup.
While not a replacement for brushing and flossing, it’s a natural supplement to oral care.
Emotional and Spiritual Connection
Beyond physical uses, olive oil carries symbolic and emotional weight.
A Symbol of Care: Many families in Pakistan and elsewhere gift olive oil as a gesture of health and love.
Religious Importance: In Islamic tradition, olives and olive oil are mentioned in the Quran as a blessed food.
Peace and Purity: The olive branch has long stood for peace, while its oil represents healing and blessing.
For many households, simply having olive oil at home feels like keeping something special — even sacred.
Household Uses You Might Not Expect
Extra virgin olive oil can also serve surprising purposes around the home:
Polishing Wood: A little EVOO can restore shine to wooden furniture.
Stainless Steel Cleaner: Buffing with a soft cloth removes streaks from appliances.
Leather Conditioner: Prevents cracking and extends the life of leather goods.
Squeaky Hinges: Works as a natural lubricant.
Who knew that the same oil drizzled on bread could also fix a squeaky door?
Supporting Mental Wellness
Emerging research suggests EVOO may support mental health too:
Its omega-3 fatty acids are linked to improved mood and lower risks of depression.
Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress that affects brain health.
Traditional Mediterranean diets rich in EVOO are associated with lower rates of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
This shows that olive oil nourishes not just the body, but the mind as well.
Everyday Rituals With EVOO
Here are simple ways to enjoy its benefits beyond cooking:
Morning Boost: A teaspoon of EVOO with warm water and lemon to start digestion.
Night Routine: Massage a drop into under-eye skin for overnight hydration.
Weekend Self-Care: Use as a hair mask or skin oil.
Family Bonding: Gentle massage oil for kids or elders at home.
Small rituals like these connect families to both wellness and tradition.
Myths About Olive Oil Beyond the Kitchen
Even though it’s popular, EVOO is surrounded by myths.
“It clogs pores.” In reality, it’s non-comedogenic and suits most skin types.
“Only edible oils work inside the body.” EVOO benefits skin and hair externally too.
“Expensive lotions are always better.” Often, pure olive oil works as effectively, without the chemicals.
Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil Matters in 2025
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re bombarded with artificial solutions for beauty, health, and cleaning. EVOO stands out because:
It’s natural and chemical-free.
It bridges ancient wisdom with modern science.
It’s versatile: food, beauty, home, and health.
It’s accessible — available on supermarket shelves and local stores.
Instead of juggling multiple synthetic products, one bottle of EVOO can simplify life.
Extra virgin olive oil is far more than a kitchen staple. It’s a timeless wellness ally that touches every part of life: from glowing skin to stronger hair, from soothing small ailments to creating emotional and spiritual bonds. It even finds a place in household care, making it truly multi-purpose.
In a world where health and beauty industries sell countless products, EVOO remains simple, natural, and powerful. Its benefits beyond the kitchen remind us that sometimes the oldest solutions are still the best.