The wonders of olive oil are beginning to take the world by storm. While most households have switched to olive oil for cooking for better health, there are even more benefits of the oil if applied on our body and hair.

Olives are not a vegetable, but a fruit and extra virgin olive oil is the pure oil obtained from the fruit, without using any solvents or synthetic treatment.

Olive oil has been used since generations to moisturize and rejuvenate skin and hair. This is because it contains a high amount of vitamins A, D, K and E. Vitamin E is considered a key source of protein used to fight against free radicals. It thus helps in the fighting against skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, and eczemas.

Regular use of olive oil can add radiance to your skin and hair. Here are some suggestions on treating daily ailments with this wonder oil:

1. Reduce Blackheads

Massage your face with olive oil in circular movements. Leave for a minute, then gently scrub your face with a hot towel. Repeat for one or two weeks and notice a visible difference in your skin and minimize blackheads.

2. Makeup Remover

Removing makeup can be tough, especially around the eyes. Opt for olive oil over chemical removers. Simply dab some oil on a cotton swab and wipe away makeup from your skin. It works well without causing harm to your skin.

3. Face Masks

Olive oil can be a great ingredient for making face packs. Mix it with an egg white to soothe dry skin. Another great face pack is one made from one teaspoon olive oil mixed with honey and milk.

4. Daily Skin Lotion

Rubbing olive oil on your body every day after a bath will keep your skin smooth and supple. It works well for both summer and winter months. You can also soothe relaxed eyes and reduce dark circles by dabbing a bit of olive oil under your eyes before going to bed.

5. Exfoliation

Mix olive oil with sea salts and rub on stubborn skin like elbows, knees, neck and heels. It works wonders in removing dead skin cells.

6. Hands and Feet Care

Apply olive oil to your finger tips to keep nail beds and cuticles soft while adding shine to it. You can make a scrub for your hands by adding one teaspoon of sugar to two teaspoons of olive oil and massaging well, before washing off. Regular use of this scrub will ensure your hands never go dry.

For dry, scaly feet, soak your feet in a mix of lukewarm water and one tablespoon of olive oil every night. The sugar scrub works well for the feet too.

7. Reduce Stretch Marks

Massaging the belly with olive oil is recommended for pregnant women to maintain skin elasticity. This helps reducing the stretch marks that appear post delivery.

8. Reduce Dandruff and Deep Condition

Regular scalp massage of olive oil has proven to reduce dandruff over time. It also acts as a deep conditioner. Simply wrap a hot towel or a shower cap on your head after a massage and leave for 10 minutes. Shampoo normally and get smooth, shiny hair that is more manageable with each wash. You can also warm the oil in winters before applying.

The wonders of olive oil never seem to cease. Hopefully, these tips will make you a fan of this therapeutic oil and keep you and your skin radiant and supple for years to come!