A marvellous practical guide to unlocking the secrets of olive oil - learn why this well-loved 'liquid gold' is such an important part of the life-prolonging Mediterranean diet. The Miracle of Olive Oil is a compact yet comprehensive guide on the many ways to use this wonderful product of nature - not only in cooking, but also for health and beauty. This is the only book on olive oil whose author offers health information as an experienced doctor, alongside recipes as an able and creative cook. Olive oil's colour is attractive, its aroma is delightful, its flavour is luscious, and its feel in the mouth and on the skin is sensual. So valuable has it been over the centuries that it is easy to understand why Homer called it 'liquid gold' in the Odyssey, and why the father of medicine, Hippocrates, referred to it as 'the great healer'. On health: an account of the nutrients and other health-giving properties of olive oil, with an easy-to-understand explanation of how the oil's fatty acids aid the body's balance of 'good' and 'bad' cholesterol; also, an A-Z of ailments describing how olive oil can help with 42 common conditions and illnesses On beauty: practical ways to use olive oil to enhance hair, nails and skin On cookery: invaluable general advice, plus 32 tried-and-tested, delicious recipes How to choose olive oil: essential consumer-friendly guidance on choosing olive oils with explanations of the recently revised principles of classification and labelling Book jacket.