Uses for Olive Oil Part 1

DAY 4 OF OLIVE WEEK

Olive oil is one of the most useful natural products, and their health benefits have been proclaimed for centuries. You would not believe that such a humble fruit as so many uses, including its use in food, soap, to condition your hair, to cure cracked heels, the list goes on....

If you are interested in picking your own olives, you can view our article on how to pick your own olives, which includes information on how to pick from your trees, visiting the olive processing plant as well as how to cure your olives. 

If you would like to see the plant for yourself when you are on holiday in North Cyprus, then Cyprus Paradise run a very interesting tour to the Karpaz Peninsula on Fridays, which encompasses a trip to an olive oil factory, where you can see the machinery and also sample some of the products made with olive oil in North Cyprus. 

Over the coming days, we will explore some of the many uses for olive oil...

Olive Oil Conditioner

The best way to use olive oil on your hair, is to make a conditioner from it, which will leave your hair shiny, softer and more manageable.

You will need:

·         Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil

·         Microwave

·         Shower Cap

·         Old Towel

For short to medium length hair, pour half a cup of olive oil into a bowl which is safe to use in a microwave. If you have long hair, you may want to use 1 cup of oil. Heat the oil in the microwave for approximately 20 seconds, or until the oil is warm. Next, place a towel over your shoulders to protect your clothes. Ensure that your hair is dry, then place a small amount of the oil into the palm of your hand and massage it gently into your hair. If you have a dry scalp, or dandruff, massage some of the oil into your scalp as well. If you have particularly oily hair, do not massage your scalp with the oil, as this could make the condition worse. 

Keep massaging small amounts of oil into your hair, until all of your hair is covered. Now pile your hair on top of your head and cover your head with the shower cap. You need to wait at least 30 – 40 minutes for the oil to soak into your hair. 

Next you need to wash your hair with a mild shampoo, ensuring that you rinse well so that all of the oil is removed from your hair and scalp. This may take longer than your normal shampoo. If you wish, you can then lightly condition your hair further with your normal conditioner. Dry your hair as normal. You should now notice that your hair is softer, more shiny and more manageable.