The Modern Hippy

     Olive oil is not just for cooking. In spa class, we discussed the different oils that could be used as carrier oils for essential oils. Olive oil was among the other oils discussed. Out of spa class olive oil is toted for its health benefits in and on the body as well. It is high in omega 3 fatty acids, which are natural anti-inflammatory agents. Olives are also high in anti-oxidants. Recently, the beauty industry has been tapping into the ancient oil that has been used for centuries. It is very moisturizing, great for sensitive skin, I love it. I have eczema on my hands and another form on my upper arms. This more natural form of a moisturizing agent has worked very well when my poor arms were red this summer. I pulled out my bottle of the green oil when I noticed my hands were cracked on all side and getting very red a couple of days ago. And took a hot bath.
     The Olive Oil Source has a good bit of information about this little fruit.

     How to use this lovely oil:
• One version of application is in a hot bath. Pour out one or two tablespoons into a small bowl. Draw a hot bath. Apply the oil wherever you want or need it. Try to keep whatever part of your body, arm or foot, under the water. It forces the “good stuff” deeper into your skin.
• If you want add some essential oils. Be sure that the oils you use are high quality. You can get high quality oils from Samara Botane. For the blend to be more effective use an oil like rose that has great effects on skin. The heat from the water will help to force the essential oils deeper into the skin and with it will go the oil. And unlike baby oil, also known as mineral oil, unless you have an allergy this will not give you zits.
• You can of course just apply directly as a lotion. You could combine other oils with it, such as jojoba oil. Or melt shea butter or something else like it, blend together and create your own body butter.

     Consider using this oil in cooking and for skin care so you make it through the winter with fewer cracks and red spots.
     Also, on the eco side of things, if you buy organic olive oil it is better for the environment. As long as you don’t get a blended oil you won’t have to worry about poor ingredients or synthetics. Buy in a glass bottle and you won’t be using plastic.

Photo from: Visit Messinia