10 Different Uses for Olive Oil

Olive oil is a totally natural product. You probably already know that’s it’s an ingredient in many foods – especially those of Mediterranean origin. It is the base for most salad dressings and is used as a dip for breads with vinegar. Did you know that this ancient food has many other uses as well? Here are 10 things you can do with that bottle of olive oil – that have nothing whatsoever to do with food!

1. Skin moisturiser

Olive oil is an ideal natural skin moisturiser – it has been used for centuries to soften and help retain the natural moisture content of the skin. It can be used in its pure form or combined with other things like essential oils. You will soon those dry patches of skin disappear and your skin will feel more supple and youthful. All you need to do is massage a few drops into your body. Try doing this twice a day.

2. Natural makeup remover

It is important to remove make up at the end of the day to prevent a build up of impurities in your skin. However, artificial products can be harsh on your skin and have been known to cause reactions. Olive oil can also be used as a great natural makeup remover! It is suitable for all skin types and it is also very effective. You can apply it with a cotton wool ball and then gently wipe it off. Just remember to wash your face properly aftewards to remove all the oil, especially if you have oily skin.

3. A shaving gel

Most men and women have to shave at some point in their lives! For most of us this is a daily or at least weekly activity. Both men and women can use olive oil like a shaving gel or foam. Apply a bit of olive oil to your face, legs, or wherever you would like to shave, and it will help the razor glide along the skin more easily, causing less irritation and redness.

4. Cleaning cooking containers

Olive oil is a useful detergent for cleaning pots and utensils after cooking. All you have to do is apply a few drops of olive oil to the surface that you want to clean and scrub well for a few minutes. Then rinse well with clean water and wash the pot or utensil with washing up liquid as normal. The oil makes it much easier to do the washing up.

5. Stove cleaner

Olive oil can also be used to clean the surface of stoves, ovens and hobs. These areas are notorious for accumulating dirt, grease and grime. All you need to do is apply is a few drops of olive oil on the surface of the stove and rub with a non-abrasive cloth.  Then wipe off with a clean, fresh cloth to get a sparkling clean surface and remove the oil well.

6. Remedy for sore throat

An irritated and uncomfortable throat can be cured by swallowing one teaspoon of olive oil.  It really helps to ease the pain and discomfort. If you would prefer, you can combine it with some honey to make it more palatable.

7. Natural household lubricant

Olive oil is, after all, an oil. It works like other oils as a lubricant around the house. It is useful for lubricating creaky doors or windows. It can even be used to help with jammed zips on trousers, jackets or bags, or with any other metal that constantly produces friction.

8. Pet protector

If you have a cat, olive oil can help prevent hair balls from forming in their stomach. It helps the balls to pass through the digestive system. Simply add a bit of olive oil to your cat’s food.

9. Natural furniture cleaner

Leather or wood furniture are natural products and react best to a natural cleaner. The olive oil nourishes them and makes them look shinier. To do this, apply a few drops on a clean rag and rub it over the surface of the furniture piece.

10. Natural degreaser

As an oil, it can remove grease stains caused by industrial products like petroleum derivatives. All you have to do is mix some olive oil with some salt and scrub the stain.