Introduction

Olive oil is a natural oil extracted from the fruit of the olive tree and has been treasured for thousands of years throughout the Mediterranean and beyond.

Widely used in cooking, skincare, haircare, massage, and traditional wellbeing practices, olive oil continues to be valued around the world for its nourishing and conditioning qualities.

Traditional Significance & History

Across Mediterranean cultures, olive oil has long held a special place in everyday life, ceremony, and self-care.

Ancient Greeks and Romans valued olive oil not only as a source of nourishment, but also as an important part of body care, bathing rituals, massage, and traditional healing practices.

The olive tree itself has become a symbol of abundance, resilience, peace, and longevity. Its fruit and oil have supported communities for generations, offering both practical use and deeper cultural meaning.

While each culture has its own relationship with olive oil, a shared thread is its connection to care — care for the skin, care for the body, and care carried through long-standing traditions.

Why We Use It

Rich in naturally occurring fatty acids and antioxidants, olive oil is appreciated for its moisturising and conditioning qualities.

Its smooth texture helps support the skin’s natural moisture balance while leaving it feeling soft, nourished, and cared for.

The Ānuku Connection

At Ānuku, we use olive oil within selected rongoā-inspired skincare products to create a smooth, nourishing base that supports the infusion of native rākau ingredients.

For us, olive oil works alongside our rongoā māori kaupapa as a gentle carrier oil — helping to draw out, hold, and carry the goodness of the plants we work with into our everyday skincare.