daily dose of Olive oil may act as a natural pain reliever, according to a new study that shows the Mediterranean staple contains an anti-inflammatory ingredient. Researchers are said to have discovered a previously unknown ingredient in freshly pressed, extra virgin Olive oils that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, much like Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

The soothing effects of the enzyme, which they named Oleocanthal, may be responsible for some of the health benefits associated with the Mediterranean diet, such as a reduced risk of stroke, heart disease, breast cancer, lung cancer, and some forms of dementia, all of which have been linked to inflammation.