Most of us have heard that olive oil is good for us - we know it's the "good oil," but few of us know why and how it benefits our bodies.

1. Health Benefits

Studies have shown it's benefits heart disease by controlling LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL cholesterol levels. By eating only two tablespoons of virgin olive oil a day for one week a significant difference can be caused in cholesterol levels.

Spanish researchers have shown through their studies with rats that olive oil has colon cancer prevention benefits. In fact, they found that olive oil kept colon cancer rates down nearly as well as fish oil.

2. Properties

The main properties of olive oil that are so beneficial is it's high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and high content of antioxidants. It's protecting abilities offer help to ulcers and gastritis. It also lowers the formation of gallstones because it activates the secretion of bile and pancreatic hormones.

While all olive oil is healthy, extra virgin olive oil contains the highest level of antioxidants such as vitamin E because it is less processed, less pressed.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: comprised from the first pressing of olives and considered the best olive oil.

Virgin Olive Oil: from the second pressing.

Pure Olive Oil: some processing such as filtering and refining.

Extra Light Olive Oil: considerable processing and retains a mild olive flavor

The less the olive oil is handled the better quality and health benefit it retains. It should be kept in a cool dark location to keep it from becoming rancid. And here's some really good news, the quality is not hampered when used for cooking. Only if the oil reaches a smoke point of 410 degrees F is it harmed.

3. Hair Benefits

Olive oil nourishes and conditions the hair and scalp. It also helps with the elasticity and strength of the hair. Here is an easy hair treatment.

1/4 cup olive oil

5 drops (any) essential oil 

1 plastic bag large enough to fit over the head

Combine the olive oil and essential oil into a jar, shake well. Set in dark, cool place overnight. Shake again before using.

Rinse hair with warm water. Using about a tablespoon of the oil mixture poured into your hand rub it through your hair all the way to the ends. Repeat as needed.

Put the plastic bag over your head and secure it with a clip, leaving it for a half hour. Rinse well and shampoo.

4. My Favorite Recipe

Tomato and Basil Pasta

Ingredients

1 - 16 oz pkg penne pasta

3 roma tomatoes, diced

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup fresh basil, cut into thin strips

1 small can sliced black olives

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Sea salt & pepper to taste

Cook pasta per package instructions. In a large bowl combine pasta and remaining ingredients, toss and serve. Easy-peasy.