Rawpower

Olives are truly a universal food, marinated in the richness of  history - their very name invoking imagery of ancient lands and mythic lore. It is the oldest cultivated tree on the planet, and the olive tree is so hardy it can potentially live for thousands of years.  It has associations in Ancient Greece with victory, wealth and fertility, and the oil was used to anoint kings and athletes.  It was burnt in temples and fueled the 'Eternal Flame' of the original Olympic Games.  The Dove carrying an Olive branch is an immortal symbol for peace dating back to the beginning of recorded time.  Olives leaves were discovered in the tomb of Tutankhamen, and the olive is referred to in literature and sacred texts almost more than any other food. The olive is so fundamental to the human race that the word 'oil', in multiple languages, ultimately derives from the word olive.    A food so immortal, so sorely tested in the crucible of time, must be vital for inclusion in our daily vision for yummy, decadent eating and exceptionally euphoric wellness. 

The olive fruit and leaves are the consumable section of the tree.  The fruit is also pressed to make a tasty and versatile oil.   There are thousands of different types of cultivated olives, coming in a variety of colours and flavours depending on how they were grown and processed. The general distinction made is between green olives, and black olives.   Olives are very bitter in their innately raw state, so traditional  techniques of fermenting or curing in brine are used to enhance the flavour and concentrate nutritional components.  The result is a product that will store without refrigeration – historically relevant to the olive, as a desert food stuff. They can also be soaked in a marinade or stuffed with a filling.  Some modern processing methods are more efficient  but can damage the healthful and flavorsome properties of the olive. 

Very extensive scientific research and anecdotal evidence since antiquity demonstrate the potent and wide ranging therapeutic qualities of the olive fruit, leaves, and oil.    The complex and diverse healthful benefits of the olive are now absolutely accepted and even taken for  granted by the international medical community – even by the more conservative factions usually cautious about regarding food as a medicine.

The leaves of the olive tree have many medicinal properties, with  powerful immune system support being the most well known.  It has recently become very popular as a nutritional supplement.  The olive fruit and thus the oil is mostly comprised of oleic acid –a nutritious  mono-unsaturated fat also known as an Omega 9 fatty acid.  This fat is actually required for life. It is a key component of the cellular membrane, maintains appropriate blood cholesterol count, protects against the consumption of 'bad' fats & protects the DNA – amongst an assorted host of other biological functions. Oleic acid and the high vitamin E content of olives maintain healthy blood pressure and ensure a happy heart. Because the  brain is composed of mostly fat, olive keeps it strong and healthy too. Modern research discusses the many unique antioxidants living in the olive, which keep our cells fresh and alive and fight degeneration.  This lucky, yummy fruit has proven to successfully treat many diseases including cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and all heart conditions including stroke.  High levels of iron and fibre top off this veritable trove of goodness.  Perhaps the olive gave Socrates his wisdom?

Olives are absolutely delicious to eat on their own, or in their marinated or stuffed form, and this is the most simple way to enjoy their many benefits. The olive  also travels best when in this whole state, not needing refrigeration. The  recipes for preparing olives are boundless and only limited by ones creativity. There are salads, dips and pastes, fillings, toppings and condiments, and even decorative.  
Olea Europaea – the Olive – a marvelous medicine and versatile delicious treat,  enjoyed since the dawn of humanity to our present day.

Article by Anson

Check out our range of delicious, raw organic Peruvian olives HERE (You will need to scroll to the bottom of the page to see them)