Olive (Olea europaea)

The ancient Greeks had many uses for this plant and its by products. Olive oil has traditionally been used to treat burns, dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, and xerosis. The major components include 56-83% oleic acid, 8-20% palmitic acid, and 4-20% linoleic acid. Steroids including B-sitosterol and tocopherols are present. Extra virgin oil also has a significant amount of polar polyphenols which provide antioxidant effect and contribute to the anti-inflammatory function of olive oil. When applied to murine skin following UVB exposure, significantly fewer tumors developed. This herb is a weak irritant. An increasing number of cosmeceuticals incorporate olive oil into the formulation (70,71).