Olive oil is a fruit oil extracted from olives, a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean Basin. The oil is produced by pressing whole olives. It is commonly used in cooking, for frying foods or as a salad dressing. It is also used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and soaps.
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats. It also contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage. Olive oil has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.