Olive oil as an anti-inflammatory

Inflamation occurs as a result of infection to a tissue from an external pathegon or as a result of tissue damage such as when you pull a muscle. It is often painful and in the case of external infection can lead to redness on the surface of the skin and the build-up of toxic fluids under the skin.

When a person strains or pulls a muscle, anti-inflammatory medicines are often prescribed by there practitioner for the dual purpose of reducing the amount of inflammation and reducing the amount of pain that occurs as a result.

Olive oil has shown to have properties similar to that of known anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen. Although it is not recommended you replace olive oil with any medicinal drug, olive oil can be an excellent way to give your immune system a boost to help with any inflammation you may be suffering.

Olive oil as a daily boost

Olive oil also contains known antioxidants which can assist in the prevention of oxidative stress on your body, which is the breakdown of body tissues due to diet, lifestyle or aging. The main defense mechanism against oxidative stress is your immune system. It is important to give you immune system a boost by providing your body with anti-oxidants that combat the oxidation process. By including olive oil in your daily diet regime and restricting the consumption of saturated fats, alcohol, caffeine and limiting lifestyle choices such as smoking and being exposed to excessive sunlight. You will give your immune system a boost by decreasing the amount of oxidative stress on your body and increasing the amount of anti-oxidants in your body.

Sources
www.wikipedia.org - olive oil
www.clevelandclinic.org - Diet, Exercise, Stress, and the Immune System
http://nutrition.about.com - Anti-inflammatory Foods

Health Disclaimer
The health section of the Olive Oil from Spain website is designed for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice. The information provided on this site should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider and always continue using any medicines or medical treatment prescribed by your health care provider unless specified otherwise by them.