The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of EVOO: Nature’s Daily Defence

The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of EVOO: Nature’s Daily Defence

If you often feel bloated, tired, achy, or just "off," you're not alone. According to a recent consumer health survey, over a third of people in the UK may experience signs linked to chronic inflammation.

Inflammation is a natural defence mechanism. But when it becomes chronic, it can contribute to joint pain, fatigue, digestive issues, heart disease, skin conditions, and even autoimmune imbalances. Today, anti-inflammatory therapies are being explored across nearly every branch of medicine.

The good news? You can support your body’s natural balance with something as simple and delicious as extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) – especially when it’s rich in polyphenols.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes.

Is Olive Oil an Anti-Inflammatory? What the Science Says

Yes – but not just any olive oil. High-polyphenol extra virgin olive oil contains natural compounds that actively fight inflammation in the body.

Research shows EVOO helps reduce levels of pro-inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and TNF-alpha. It does this not only through its healthy fats, but thanks to powerful polyphenols that interact with your body's inflammatory pathways.

And the key ingredient leading the charge? A polyphenol called oleocanthal.

Oleocanthal: Nature’s Ibuprofen

Oleocanthal is a unique polyphenol found only in high-quality, cold-extracted olive oils. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory action that mimics ibuprofen – but without the side effects.

Here’s how it works: oleocanthal inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, the same pathways targeted by common over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. That means it helps lower pain, reduce swelling, and protect tissues at a cellular level.

Studies have linked oleocanthal-rich olive oil to:

  • Reduced joint pain and stiffness
  • Lower risk of inflammatory diseases
  • Better tolerance than synthetic anti-inflammatories over time

If you’re looking for a natural, food-based solution to everyday inflammation, this is it.

Skin-Deep Benefits: Inflammation and Your Skin

Chronic inflammation can also affect your skin – showing up as redness, sensitivity, eczema, or signs of premature ageing.

Thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, polyphenols in EVOO help soothe the skin from within. Some people also apply olive oil topically to support hydration, barrier repair, and protection from oxidative damage.

When consumed daily, high-polyphenol olive oil may:

  • Reduce inflammatory flare-ups (e.g. acne, rosacea)
  • Support skin resilience and moisture
  • Minimise free radical damage linked to ageing

Why Polyphenol Content Matters

The anti-inflammatory benefits of olive oil come down to one critical factor: polyphenol content.

Most commercial olive oils, especially refined or blended varieties, contain only trace amounts of these beneficial compounds. That means they’re highly unlikely to provide the anti-inflammatory effects you’re looking for.

High-polyphenol extra virgin olive oils, on the other hand, deliver therapeutic levels of oleocanthal and other active compounds. Clinical studies have shown a direct correlation between polyphenol concentration and reduced inflammation markers (5).

SP360 contains 1,462 mg/kg of polyphenols – placing it firmly in the “medical grade” category, a term used for EVOOs with over 1,000 mg/kg. That’s 46% above the threshold. Every batch is tested and certified, so you know you’re getting powerful, consistent polyphenol content – and maximum anti-inflammatory support – in every spoonful.

SP360: Your Natural Anti-Inflammatory Ally

SP360 is more than just olive oil. It’s functional nutrition, designed to support your body from the inside out.

Grown, milled, and bottled on our award-winning Jordanian estate, SP360 is cold-extracted within hours of harvest. That means the polyphenols – especially oleocanthal – are captured at their peak.

We go further with:

  • Refillable, UV-protected glass bottles
  • Third-party testing by the Royal Scientific Society
  • Sustainable, transparent practices

Every drop is purposeful. Every bottle supports your wellbeing.

How to Use SP360 for Inflammation Support

The ideal daily amount? 15-30ml (1-2 tablespoons).

Here are a few simple ways to make it part of your anti-inflammatory routine:

  • Sip it straight first thing in the morning or in an evening
  • Drizzle over roasted vegetables or dark leafy greens
  • Blend into your smoothie or yoghurt bowl
  • Use as a finishing oil on soups or warm dishes

Avoid high-heat cooking, as it can reduce polyphenol content. Think of SP360 as a functional food – not just a cooking ingredient.

A Simple Step Toward Less Inflammation

Reducing chronic inflammation doesn’t have to be complicated. With SP360, it can be as simple as a daily drizzle.

Rich in oleocanthal and other powerful polyphenols, SP360 gives you a natural, proven way to support your body’s anti-inflammatory response – every single day.

Science-backed. Sustainably made. Seriously effective.

Ready to feel the difference? Explore SP360 subscriptions for daily wellness.

 

 

Sources

(1) Shaffer, G. (2025). The silent epidemic. [online] FutureYou Cambridge. Available at: https://futureyouhealth.com/blogs/knowledge-centre/inflammation-survey [Accessed 18 Jul. 2025]. 

(2) Yahfoufi, N., Alsadi, N., Jambi, M. and Matar, C. (2018). The Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Role of Polyphenols. Nutrients, [online] 10(11), p.1618. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10111618. 

(3) Costa, V., Costa, M., Videira, R.A., Andrade, P.B. and Paiva-Martins, F. (2022). Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Olive Oil Polyphenols – The Role of Oleacein and Its Metabolites. Biomedicines, 10(11), p.2990. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10112990. 

(4) Santangelo, C., Vari, R., Scazzocchio, B., De Sanctis, P., Giovannini, C., D’Archivio, M. and Masella, R. (2017). Anti-inflammatory Activity of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Polyphenols: Which Role in the Prevention and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases? Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders - Drug Targets, 18(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.2174/1871530317666171114114321. 

(5) Bucciantini, M., Leri, M., Nardiello, P., Casamenti, F. and Stefani, M. (2021). Olive Polyphenols: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Antioxidants, 10(7), p.1044. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox10071044.

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