The olive tree originates from the Mediterranean and was known as early as 12,000 BC. The first cultivated plants likely appeared in Crete and Syria. The Phoenicians then spread them along the entire Mediterranean coast. Olive oil, much like salt, was a valuable currency. The olive tree was a symbol of peace, and winners of the Olympic Games were often crowned with a wreath woven from olive branches. In the 5th century BC, the olive tree spread from Greece to Sicily, Italy, and the Iberian Peninsula.

They are tasty on their own, but are also added in Italian and Spanish cuisine as a seasoning that creates a divine sweet and sour flavour.

Olives have a sweet and sour taste and a neutral nature. They nourish the blood, moisten the lungs, clear heat, and detoxify.