The Significance of Olive Oil in Ancient Greek and Roman Diets
The consumption of olive oil was widespread in both ancient Greek and Roman societies, though its place in their daily diet varied. Despite its popularity, olive oil never became a staple food in ancient Greece, where cereals formed the bedrock of the diet and were supplemented by more flavorful foods such as dairy products, meat, and olives themselves. This article explores the role of olive oil in ancient diets, its use in medical practices, and the differing views between its internal and external usage.
Role of Olive Oil in Ancient Greek Diets
According to Foxhall (2007), the ancient Greek diet was primarily cereal-based, with olive oil serving as a flavorful addition to meals rather than a staple. It was generally categorized alongside other opsa, a term originally denoting delicacies, but later often used to describe fish. This classification suggests that olive oil was a semi-luxury item, consumed in moderation and reserved for the more affluent. Foxhall also notes that within Hippocratic medicinal literature, olive oil was used to counteract imbalances in the body, indicating its non-staple status.
Medicinal Use of Olive Oil
Medicinally, olive oil played a significant role in treatments. According to Foxhall, it was valued for its external applications, such as cleansing and bathing, as part of a healthy regime. However, the consumption of olive oil as food was more consistent among the wealthy. Foxhall estimates that a wealthy Athenian household would consume approximately 100-200 kg of olive oil annually for food, 10-20 kg for bathing, and 90-110 kg for lighting.
Cooking and Use in Ancient Greek Cuisines
Descriptions of olive oil's culinary use, particularly in Athenian cuisine, can be found in texts such as Deipnosophistae. (Athenaeus, 2005). For a detailed analysis of olive cultivation and its significance in ancient Greek culture, scholars recommend Olive Cultivation in Ancient Greece by Lin Foxhall (2007).
Imports and Use in Roman Cuisine
While olive oil was less prominent in ancient Greek diets, its presence and use were significant in Roman cuisine. Olive oil played a central role in the daily lives of Romans, not just as a food but also in personal care routines. Romans used olive oil for numerous purposes—cooking, dressing salads, bathing, and even as a form of grooming. Strabo (1981) documented the widespread use of olive oil in Roman society, highlighting its importance in both culinary and personal hygiene.
External Uses in Roman Hygiene
Romans had a distinctly sensual relationship with olive oil. They often rubbed it over their bodies before bathing to soften skin and remove dead skin cells. After bathing, a specialized tool would be used to scrape off the oil, helping to clean the body thoroughly.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The production and consumption of olive oil were significant economic activities in ancient Roman and Greek societies. The olive groves were often owned by the wealthy, and the oil was traded widely across the Mediterranean. The abundance of olive oil also had a cultural impact, leading to the development of olive-based dishes and the creation of a social hierarchy based on access to this prized resource (Collins, 2004).
Conclusion
In conclusion, while olive oil was not a staple in the ancient Greek diet, it played a crucial role in both culinary practices and medicinal applications. Its significance in Roman culture was even more pronounced, where it served as a symbol of luxury and cleanliness. Understanding the multifaceted role of olive oil in ancient diets helps us better appreciate the economic, social, and cultural impact of this versatile and beloved food in both ancient Greece and Rome.