The Olive (olea europea) —by Michealin Daugherty Olives are mentioned in both biblical and classical writings as a symbol of peace, purity, happiness and goodness.   Myths and Legends The highest position held by the olive tree was in Biblical myth.  Moses is said to have exempted men from military service who would work at its cultivation.   In Arician legends, during times of drought, people carved images of Damia and Auxesia (female powers connected with fertility) in sacred olive wood and immediately the earth began to bear fruit. Olive oil was burnt in the sacred lamps of the temples, while the victor of the Olympic games was crowned with its leaves. Minerva presented an olive as "most useful to mankind" and won the city of Athens. Skin Remedies Olive leaves have astringent and antiseptic qualities. Olive oil relieves stings and burns. Olive leaf extract is thought to be good for the treatment of warts and shingles. Soak your nails in olive oil to build strong fingernails and soften cuticles. For earaches, soak olive oil on cotton ball, add five drops of lavender, and place in affected ear for 5 minutes. Wonderful as a treatment for dry skin and stretch marks. Thought to prevent hair loss. Internal Applications Taken internally, olive oil removes impurities and may be used as a laxative. Renowned 19th century naturalist, Dr. Edward Bach, believed olives were a good remedy for persons who felt drained, emotionally exhausted, or "out of steam" due to personal problems or illness. Mix 1 tsp. of olive oil with lemon juice and water and drink to relieve constipation. In the Diet The Vitamin E in olive is an antioxidant. The monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Olive oil promotes digestion and lubricates mucous membranes. Several studies have proven that people who use the so-called "Mediterranean Diet" have lower incidences of cardiovascular diseases. The Mediterranean Diet uses olive oil, fresh vegetables and fruits and fish.   Sources: Balch, JF, Stengler, M. Prescription For Natural Cures, John Wiley & Sons, 2004. The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters, 2008. Frazer, G. The Golden Bough: A Study in Magic and Religion. MacMillan, 1951. Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal. Vol II. Dover, 1971. Martin, RP: Bulfinch's Mythology: The Age of the Fable, The Age of Chivalry, Legends, HarperCollins 1991. Personal knowledge/beliefs.   For more about flowers, plants and herbs, see Ireland's OWN Myths and Magic Page last updated 15 Aug  2008 Website Design and Myths & Magic logo by Míchealín Daugherty Copyright © 2008 Ireland's OWN All Rights Reserved.