The special geo-climatic conditions of Crete and, in particular, the sun-drenched days of summer and autumn, along with the proper application of local research, not to mention the love of the Cretans for the olive tree and its oil, have all culminated in a spectacular improvement in the level of quality!
Today, over 95% of the olive oil produced in Crete belongs to the highest category of quality labeled as "Extra Virgin".
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Is the natural juice of the olive without further processing beyond cold pressing. Its acidity does not exceed 0.7% of olive acid. It’s packaged with the label “Extra Virgin Olive Oil”.
The elixir of life
Apart from its flavor, medical studies have discovered the great importance of olive oil to health and the longevity of life. This mainly applies to Extra Virgin olive oil.
Its therapeutic and beneficial attributes have been known and respected for thousands of years. Studies of today’s scientific community have recognized the Cretan diet as one of the healthiest worldwide.
Needless to say, Cretan olive oil, which is rich in non-saturated fat acids, is the main reason for this recognition. Simply put, olive oil decreases the chance of heart disease by lowering LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) which is responsible for the creation of fat deposits in the arteries.
However, olive oil does not affect HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) which works against fat deposits which may have already developed.
Olive oil helps to regulate the metabolism and the development of the brain and bones in children. It is also a source of vitamin E for children and adults.
As it is a natural antioxidant, olive oil slows down the biological ageing process. It reduces the over production of acids and the digestive system, therefore reducing the appearance of ulcers and other gastroenteric problems. It is clear that olive oil is really miraculous for the health.
Ancient Greeks
Ancient Greeks believed that Virgin Olive Oil is beneficial to human health and recommended it for afflictions such as:
Dermatological problems
Lacerations and burns
Gynecological diseases
Inducement of vomit
Ear infections
Birth control
* According to the code established by the father of medicine, Hippocrates, olive oil was held to be beneficial for over 60 therapeutic uses.
Today, the modern medicine confirms that Virgin Olive oil is beneficial for one's health and its consumption is recommended for many instances such as:
Cardio - circulatory illnesses
Prevention of breast cancer
Prevention of prostate cancer
Control of stomach ulcer
Control of diabetes
Sexual impotence
Diet for children and athletes
Diet for the aged
