Description

Olive is generally an evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Olea europaea family. It is edible in nature and is revered for its contribution to the culinary world, it is this fruit from which olive oil is extracted. They are majorly cultivated in the Mediterranean region. Olives have a long history as that of the western civilisation, and happens to be one of the very first accomplishment of the civilized men. They have been found to be cultivated in two places, Crete and Syria. According to archeological shreds of evidence, it is fathomed that the initial cultivation of olives dates back to 2500 B.C in the region of Crete, and from there it got transferred to Rome, Greece and other Mediterranean regions. It is been introduced to a subtropical and warm temperate climate. These fruits are small drupes 1 to 2.5 cm long having paper-thin flesh. They are usually harvested at the green stage or are left to get ripe, attaining a rich purple colour. The canned black olives might contain chemicals that make them black artificially. They usually bloom in late springs, with two different kinds of flowers, one perfect, which carries both male and female parts, hence are capable of developing into olive fruits. While the other one is male, which only contains the pollen-producing parts. Olive that has its pit or stone removed is called pitted olives in the culinary world. The ingredients with which olives can be stuffed are jalapeno, onion, garlic, dried tomato or pimiento. Both green and black olives can be pitted. Pitted olives are best served on salads, pizza topping or can be eaten by itself. 

Health benefits

• Olives are rich in antioxidants, therefore, they carry great potentials of warding off inflammations and reducing microorganism growth.⁽¹⁾
• They help in improving bone health, adding them in one’s diet helps in reducing the chance of osteoporosis, a chronic condition in which the bones become brittle.⁽¹⁾
• Olives are considered to be a sacred medicinal plant, which is been used traditionally to treat diabetes, stomach problem, hypertension, bacterial and fungal infections, etc.⁽²⁾
• Olives contain oleuropein, which is a significant chemical component that functions as an antibacterial agent for the body. It helps the body to fight against bacterial infections.⁽²⁾

Selection Guide

At the time of purchase, one should always look for the date of expiration. It should be firm in touch, but should not be tough and woody. It should not be mushy and should not have visible bruises.