Volcanic soil-grown olive oil, especially when harvested in October, is considered some of the best in the world due to a combination of soil composition, climate, and early harvest benefits. Here’s why:
Volcanic soil is highly fertile and packed with essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which contribute to the robust flavour and high polyphenol content in olives.
The porous nature of volcanic soil ensures excellent drainage, preventing root rot and allowing the olive trees to develop deep, strong roots.
Olive trees grown in volcanic regions (e.g., Sicily, Santorini, Etna, Vesuvius, and parts of Greece and Spain) benefit from a mild climate with good sunlight exposure and optimal rainfall.
These conditions lead to slow, steady fruit ripening, which enhances flavour complexity and nutritional quality.
Olives harvested in October are still green or slightly turning purple, meaning they have higher levels of polyphenols (natural antioxidants responsible for the peppery, bitter taste in premium olive oil).
Early harvest oils tend to be more vibrant, aromatic, and rich in polyphenols, making them not only flavourful but also healthier with stronger anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Due to the rich volcanic soil and early harvest, these oils often have lower acidity (<0.3%), making them extra virgin and of superior quality.
They also have a longer shelf life because of their natural antioxidant content.
Olive oil from volcanic regions tends to have bold, peppery, and slightly spicy notes, making it stand out in taste.
The balance of bitterness and fruitiness is ideal for drizzling over dishes, enhancing the depth of flavours.
Volcanic soil-grown, October-harvested, cold-pressed olive oil is one of the healthiest oils you can consume. Thanks to the mineral-rich soil, early harvest timing, and gentle extraction method, it offers a range of benefits for overall health.
The collagen content of male skin reduces at a constant rate, whereas female skin is affected later in their life, significantly after menopause. This is when a woman’s skin thins dramatically, and the effects are more pronounced than in male skin.
Early-harvest olives (picked in October) have higher polyphenol content, which contributes to their bitter and peppery taste.
Polyphenols reduce inflammation, fight oxidative stress, and protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Packed with monounsaturated fats (oleic acid), which help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
Helps reduce blood pressure and protect arteries, lowering the risk of strokes and heart disease.
Contains oleocanthal, a natural compound with similar effects to ibuprofen in reducing inflammation.
Beneficial for arthritis, joint pain, and other inflammatory conditions.
High in antioxidants that help combat brain aging and cognitive decline.
May lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Cold-pressed olive oil is gentle on the stomach and helps balance gut bacteria.
Its anti-inflammatory effects may help with gastritis, bloating, and digestion.
High in essential minerals (from volcanic soil) like magnesium, potassium, and zinc, which boost immunity.
Polyphenols help fight infections and strengthen the body's defence system.
Helps protect skin from oxidative damage, keeping it youthful and imparting a wonderful healthy glow!
The Mediterranean diet, rich in high-quality olive oil, is linked to a longer lifespan.
Increases satiety (keeps you full longer), reducing overeating.
Helps maintain a healthy metabolism without contributing to unhealthy fat storage.
Cold pressing preserves the oil’s nutrients, antioxidants, and flavour, unlike refined oils that lose health benefits due to heat processing.
If you’re looking for the best olive oil for flavour, nutrition, and health, volcanic soil-grown, early-harvest, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is the top choice.
Ideally, just take a tablespoonful per day, first thing in the morning!
Or use it raw (drizzled over salads, vegetables, or bread) to maximize its benefits.
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