In recent posts, we have introduced you to our very own 100% pure and natural extra virgin olive oil, looked into the marketing scandal of impure oils, and addressed questions about how to store it in your home. Since we released our olive oil, our customers have have been loving its flavor, consistency, and freshness.
The most common uses for olive oil are for bread dipping, salad dressing, and cooking. However, there are lots of other ways that cooks and naturalists use olive oil every day in their homes. Just ask Carol Firenze, author of The Passionate Olive: 101 Things You Can Do with Olive Oil. Let’s explore a few of these creative and practical uses.
Olive Oil for Hair and Skin
Olive oil is a natural way to smooth your skin, and when combined with salt, sugar, or ground coffee, it can serve as an exfoliant as well. Homemade olive oil mixtures are often used to remove makeup and to soothe diaper rash. Try using olive oil mixed with natural herbs instead of chemical-ridden massage oil next time your sweetheart has back or neck pain. One great way to restore moisture to dry, damaged hair is to coat strands in olive oil, let it sit for an hour under a shower cap, and rinse until clean. You can easily make your own homemade hair conditioner and hand soap with olive oil, and some local craft stores even offer DIY classes.
Olive Oil for Wood and Leather
Believe it or not, olive oil makes a great polish and conditioner for wood furniture. It can also protect and restore shine and suppleness of leather, whether it be your couch, coat, or shoes. Before application, wipe away any dust and residue with a damp towel. Once, dry, apply a light coat of olive oil to the wood or leather and rub until it has fully soaked in.
Olive Oil for Metal
Olive oil makes a great lubricant for metal around your home and garden, including knives, hinges, and tools. Metal surfaces should be clean upon application, so be sure to wipe away dirt and rust first. Just a few drops go a long way.
Olive Oil for Pet Care
Naturalists swear by olive oil for hairball prevention, since just a couple drops in pet food can serve as a safe dietary lubricant. You can also apply olive oil to your dog or cat’s irritated skin when it becomes dry or attacked by fleas. If your dog regularly takes walks on rough sidewalks, try applying a few drops of olive oil on his sore, cracked paws.
When it’s pure and natural, olive oil has the power to work wonders in your body, on your body, and around the house.