Olives in Provence, Vitamin Rich for Well Being
Top Oil for Healthy Mediterranean Diet and Natural Skincare
May 15, 2009
Olive trees grow well in the dry stony lands of Provence where each area offers one or more of over a dozen varieties of fruit. Olives are like wine, a matter of personal preference, serious business for professional tasters and high quality products guaranteed by the AOC label. All claim the same health giving properties but favourites include the Lucques, Picholine and Aglandau.
The most productive district is the Bouches du Rhône, around Aix en Provence and Les Baux, with 785 800 trees yielding close to 6000 tons of olives.
Green and black olives come from the same tree, the colour depending on harvest time which lasts from September to February. This is done by hand to preserve quality and appearance, 5kg of olives for every litre of oil. Green or black, fruit or oil, olives are fit for consumption only when the bitterness has been removed. This is done by a chemical free process ensuring a natural product.
Vitamin Rich Olives from Provence, Well Being and Healthy Mediterranean Diet
Praised since ancient times, olives are rich in anti-oxidant vitamins, especially E, minerals, calcium and monounsaturated fat, in particular oleic acid. This is good for bones, brain and digestive system, regulates cholesterol and reduces the risk of coronary heart disease.
In Provence, the fruit often compliments pre-dinner drinks and can add flavour to any dish, from fish stew bouillabaisse to pissaladiere, the local pizza, from olive cake to garlic dip. It is also served as tapenade, a tasty spread at aperitif time.
The oil comes in different grades. Top of the range are extra virgin and virgin oils which claim the least acidity and the most flavour and are best with salads, cold or sauté dishes. Refined olive oil which can withstand high temperatures, including deep frying, should be used for cooking.
Stored away from light and extreme temperatures, olive oil will keep fresh for up to a year.
Mediterranean Top Olive Oil for Natural Skincare
Extra virgin oil provides the best skincare and is available in a range of beauty products. There’s the famous soap from Marseille, boasting over 70% olive oil, shaving and moisturising creams which help prevent skin cancer.
Besides enjoying their nutritional benefits, the people of Provence turn to olives for traditional skincare and cosmetic treatment.
- Apply olive oil, mixed with grape pip and sunflower oil, to relieve sunburn.
- Mix with lemon juice and massage to reduce wrinkles.
- Rub on hands and feet to keep the skin smooth.
- Strengthen brittle nails by dipping in olive oil with a few drops of lemon essence.
- Add a few drops of lavender oil and massage to heal spots.
- Rub on teeth regularly for a bright smile.
- Add a little thyme essence and massage scalp for healthy hair.
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