There has been a lot of talk out there about how good olive oil can be for you, especially extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Olive oil is loaded with the same powerful polyphenols and antioxidants that can be found in green tea and red wine. It can help protect your body from oxidative stress and damage that is caused by free radicals making it a necessary ingredient to combat the effects of aging. Taking it on a daily basis can help improve your heart’s function and keep you skin looking supple and smooth. On top of that, Olive Oil, especially the Extra Virgin variety, is also a perfect all natural ingredient that can help you counteract the effects of joint pain.

Anti-Inflammatory

Researchers have found that EVOO contains the compound oleocanthal, which is powerful all natural anti-inflammatory. This compound acts pretty much the same way that ibuprofen works: through blocking the COX-2 enzymes take part in the inflammation process that leads up to joint pain. While it does take a bit more olive oil to bring about the same effects as 400 milligrams of ibuprofen or aspirin, regular consumption of olive oil can bring about a natural anti-inflammatory response without all of the negative side effects that are associated with taking NSAIDs for the long haul.

Why Extra Virgin

While all Olive Oils contain these anti-inflammatory compounds, Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains higher amounts of Oleocanthals because is it is not refined using high heat or chemicals that destroy these ultra-beneficial compounds. The presence of these compounds can be detected in olive oil by the peppery burning feeling that they produce in the back of your throat. In essence, the stronger the sensation, the better the oil is. Keeping the oil stored in a cool, dark place is also essential to preserve the natural healing benefits of this oil.

Supplementing with Olive Oil

A good way to benefit from the effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil is to use it regularity in your meal plan. Make fresh dressing with it, use it as a dip or lightly brush on to your lightly cooked veggies. There are also supplements available that contain olive oil and all of the healing benefits that come with it. One such supplement is the SIX Nutrition Supplement for Men which includes olive oil in its supplement for men’s joint health.