A brief history of the discovery of a new drug: from the taste to the health Oleocanthal EVOO paradygm

Abstract

Mediterranean diet is consistently beneficial with respect to cardiovascular risk. Virgin olive oil is the pillar fat of Mediterranean diet.
Oleocanthal represents approximately 10% of the total phenolic compounds in Extra Virgin olive oil and has relevant pharmacological properties. Educational campaigns emphasizing the bitter-health link for olive oils should be developed and more epidemiological studies evaluating the quality of oil and his prevention role would be needed.