Squalene is a naturally occurring compound found in virgin olive oil. Laboratory research suggests it may influence immune cells involved in inflammation and tissue repair, offering another area of interest in olive oil research.

That peppery sensation in the back of your throat when tasting some extra virgin olive oils isn't just flavor. Researchers discovered that oleocanthal, a naturally occurring compound in EVOO, affects some of the same inflammatory pathways as ibuprofen.

The olive oil phenol oleuropein has been shown to be effective at alleviating ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with rising global rates.
A new study, published in a special issue of the journal Foods, indicates that the mechanisms by which it does so open up new avenues of treatment for this and other colorectal diseases.