Olive oil and lemon juice are common ingredients in many cuisines, especially in the Mediterranean and Levant regions.
Some people claim that the combination of olive oil and lemon juice can treat a range of conditions, such as gallstones, joint pain, and premature aging.
Additionally, studies have investigated the potential health benefits of nutrients found in olive oil and lemon juice separately.
In this article, we’ll discuss whether there’s research to back up the supposed benefits of the combination of olive oil and lemon juice. We’ll also review the benefits and potential downsides of each of these ingredients individually.

Olive oil is extracted by squeezing out the oil from the ripe olive fruits using various methods, including pressure and centrifuge. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is considered the highest quality type (
EVOO is made up of approximately 73% oleic acid, a heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA). It is also a great source of vitamins E and K (
Another attractive quality of olive oil is the abundant presence of natural compounds called polyphenols. These are powerful antioxidants that clean up harmful compounds called free radicals in your body, protecting you from oxidative stress (
SummaryOlive oil is made by extracting oil from the ripe olive fruit. The oil contains many nutrients, including MUFAs, polyphenols, and vitamins E and K.
The sour liquid squeezed from lemons is known as lemon juice. Lemon is a citrus fruit that originates from the Mediterranean and is part of the Rutaceae family of plants (
Lemon juice is a rich source of antioxidants, especially vitamin C. Lemons also contain flavonoids, which have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities (
SummaryThe sour juice squeezed out of lemons is called lemon juice. It is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants such as vitamin C.
Some people claim that consuming olive oil and lemon juice together leads to positive health outcomes. People claim to use them for cleanses and detoxes, to treat and prevent gallstones, and to promote weight loss.
Let’s examine each of these claims individually.
Cleanse and detox claims
With a quick online search, you’ll find various concoctions said to cleanse and detox using lemon juice, olive oil, or a combination of the two.
Cleanses and detoxes supposedly flush out waste and toxins that have built up in your body over time (
However, there do not appear to be many studies on whether lemon juice and olive oil can help cleanse or detoxify.
A 2018 review of 27 high quality studies looked at the health effects of consuming olive oil compared with other plant oils.
The researchers found that when people consumed olive oil over the study period, they had lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol in their blood compared with people who consumed other plant oils (8).
No studies in our search of high quality research demonstrated that consuming olive oil relieves digestion issues.
However, the antioxidants and polyphenols in olive oil and lemon juice could be called “cleansing” in that they neutralize or “clean up” harmful free radicals, which otherwise cause cell damage and may contribute to illness and disease (
The human body has various biological methods to remove toxins and maintain optimal functioning (
To help your body function at its best, I recommend eating a varied diet that contains fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and lean sources of protein (
Weight loss claims
Research has shown that specific components in lemon juice and olive oil — vitamin C in lemon juice and MUFAs in olive oil — play a role in weight management.
Lemon juice is high in vitamin C. A 3-ounce (100-gram) serving contains 38.7 mg, which is 43% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for men and 52% of the RDA for women (
In the human body, vitamin C is an important component needed to make carnitine.
Carnitine is a compound that transports fat molecules into the cells, where they are broken down and used as an energy source. Therefore, inadequate vitamin C intake may lead to a reduced breakdown of fat (
In an older study from 2006, healthy adults with marginally low vitamin C burned 25% less fat when walking on a treadmill for 60 minutes compared with people who had adequate vitamin C levels (
In another study, obesity-prone mice were given ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and fed a high fat diet for 15 weeks. The mice gained less body fat and had other markers of better health compared with mice that were fed a high fat diet but weren’t given vitamin C (
There appear to be no studies that observe the effects on weight of consuming a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice. However, the individual components may continue to be effective when combined.
It’s also important to note that newer studies in humans are needed.
Kidney stones and gallstones claims
Your dietary habits can play a crucial role in the formation of kidney stones and gallstones. A low intake of vitamin C and a high intake of saturated fats are known to contribute to these conditions (
Gallstones are solidified deposits of digestive fluids and cholesterol that develop in the gallbladder. Depending on the size and location of the gallstones, you may or may not experience any symptoms.
Some sources have suggested that some people use a combination of lemon juice and olive oil to promote the movement of gallstones as a folk remedy. However, there’s no research to back up this claim.
There are many healthy eating guidelines to help prevent gallstones, including the recommendation to consume healthy fats such as olive oil.
Some evidence suggests that eating healthy fats, such as olive oil, may help prevent gallstones by contracting and emptying the gallbladder on a regular basis (
Vitamin C deficiency has also been linked with an increased risk of developing gallstones. Vitamin C may inhibit the crystallization of cholesterol by converting it into bile acids, thus preventing gallstones from forming (
One large but older study from 2000 found that, for every 27 micromol/L increase in ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in the blood, there was a 13% decrease in the formation of gallstones in women ages 20 to 74 (
Overall, the research is limited and older, so more research is needed.
SummaryThe vitamin C in lemon juice and the MUFAs in olive oil may protect against gallstones. However, research observing their effectiveness for weight loss, cleanses, and detoxes is limited. No studies examine the combined effects of these foods.
(Video) Mix Lemon Juice and Olive Oil Amazing Benefits and Side Effects
Many nutrients found in olive oil and lemon juice may have positive effects on your health. Each ingredient has its own powerful health benefits.
But when combined, could olive oil and lemon juice be regarded as a super duo with greater effects than each one has when consumed individually? In short, no.
People have claimed that this mixture can improve digestion, purify the body, reduce joint pain, prevent premature ageing, and treat gallstones. However, no studies show that their effects are enhanced when they’re combined.
SummarySome sources have touted the mixture of lemon juice and olive oil to improve digestion, purify the body, reduce joint pain, and prevent premature aging. However, there is no research to support these claims.
No studies or case reports have found that combining olive oil and lemon juice has harmful effects. Still, it’s not a good idea to expect the mixture to cure disease, as some anecdotal sources claim it does (
There are no specific known downsides to the combination of olive oil and lemon juice, but each of these components comes with a few minor downsides to be aware of.
As with many foods, for a small proportion of people, lemons or olive oil may cause an allergic reaction (28, 29).
Acidic foods such as lemon juice may also harm your tooth enamel if you consume them frequently (30).
Also, remember that olive oil is very calorie-dense. One tablespoon (13.5 grams) of olive oil provides 119 calories. So if you’re trying to limit your calorie intake for weight loss or other reasons, consume olive oil in moderation (
If you have a health condition and you’re wondering what treatments might work for you, speak with a healthcare professional.
SummaryThere are no known major risks associated with use of olive oil and lemon juice and few minor downsides to each individually. It is a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before self-treating any health condition.
Should you combine olive oil and lemon juice?
(Video) 1 Cup Mix of Olive Oil, Lemon, & Honey & THIS Happens to Your Body
Should you combine olive oil and lemon juice?
If you’re curious about combining lemon juice and olive oil in your diet, go for it!
No research shows that lemon juice and olive oil are harmful when combined. Moreover, they’re a popular flavor pairing, and people often use them together in recipes, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine.
In addition to providing some of the potential health benefits listed above, lemon juice and olive oil make a great salad dressing or base for a Mediterranean chicken and potato bake (my personal favorite), among many other tasty recipes.
If you experience an allergic reaction or other concerning health effects after consuming them, make sure to stop consuming them and consult a healthcare professional.
SummaryIn addition to their individual health benefits, olive oil and lemon juice taste great when mixed to make a salad dressing or used together in other dishes.
Anecdotal sources have suggested that olive oil and lemon juice are a powerful duo when combined. Some people claim this combination can improve digestion, purify the body, reduce joint pain, prevent premature ageing, and treat gallstones.
However, there is no research to support these claims. The health qualities of olive oil and lemon juice don’t appear to be enhanced when the two ingredients are combined.
On the other hand, some individual components of olive oil and lemon juice may have other research-backed health benefits.
They also make a tasty mixture that you can use in cooking.
Just one thing
Try this today: If you want to combine olive oil and lemon juice in your diet, try making a simple vinaigrette salad dressing. It can go on almost any type of salad — green salad, potato salad, tomato salad, couscous, and more.
Whisk together about 3 parts lemon juice to 4 parts olive oil, then mix in some Dijon mustard, finely chopped garlic, honey or maple syrup, and salt to taste.
FAQs
What are the disadvantages of taking olive oil? ›
Olive oil lowers the blood sugar level below normal and may lead to health problems like hypoglycemia, sweating, trembling, weakness, etc. Over-consumption of olive oil can cause a massive fall in the blood pressure and may lead to problems like dizziness, lightheadedness, stroke, and even kidney failure.
Does olive oil and lemon reduce belly fat? ›Olive Oil For Weight Loss: How To Make A Belly-Fat Burning Drink Using Olive Oil. Mix a tablespoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of lemon juice in a bowl. This concoction can help relieve digestive woes and also helps in burning belly fat.
Does olive oil and lemon juice help your liver? ›The combination of lemon juice and olive oil provides you with a simple way of detoxifying your body. The detox will help cleanse your gallbladder and liver – it also lowers cholesterol, clears stored bile, and prevents gallstones.
How much olive oil and lemon juice do you mix together? ›...
Lemon Olive Oil Cure
- (extra virgin) olive oil.
- lemon.
- 1 x tablespoon and 1 x teaspoon (for measuring)
Olive oil is a healthy source of fat and phosphorus-free, making it a great option for people with kidney disease. Frequently, people with advanced kidney disease have trouble keeping weight on, making healthy, high calorie foods like olive oil important.
What happens when you drink olive oil every morning? ›These fatty acids have been proven to aid in the regulation of the immune system, and even help treat some autoimmune diseases. Olive oil in the morning is a great boost to your immune system and get those necessary fatty acids to keep you feeling good and healthy.
What oil burns belly fat? ›Coconut oil is the best bet to reduce belly fat. Since there are shreds of evidence that show that coconut oil boosts fat loss, it reduces belly fat. It happens due to MCTs in coconut oil which stimulates metabolism and suppresses appetite by inducing satiety.
Can you drink olive oil and lemon juice at night? ›In the world of natural medicine, drinking olive oil and lemon juice before bedtime, or as part of a detox cleanse on an empty stomach, is seen as a potential health-booster for a variety of reasons.
How much olive oil should I take a day to lose weight? ›It has now been shown to have proven weight-loss properties, which can be achieved by having three tablespoons or about 50ml of EVOO a day. These are the findings of US nutritionist and associate professor of clinical medicine Dr Mary Flynn, who's been studying the effects and health benefits of EVOO since the 1990s.
How do I know if my liver is detoxing? ›- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Anxiety.
- Tremors.
- Headache.
- Confusion.
- Insomnia.
- Restlessness.
How can I detox my liver in 3 days? ›
- Morning detox tea.
- Breakfast drink.
- Supplements.
- Lunch drink.
- Supplements (multivitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics)
- Snack drink.
- Dinner drink.
- Detox ultra-bath.
Lemon Water
Many citrus fruits, including lemon, can be added to water to help stimulate and flush out the liver. To help improve liver function, enjoy 4-6 tablespoons of lemon juice mixed with water each day.
The Ultimate Morning Drink to Cure Constipation
Olive oil, lemon, and water. Sounds simple, right? But when these three ingredients are combined, this isn't your typical water cleanse. These 3 ingredients can radically boost your immune system, detox your body, cure constipation and improve your health.
Olive oil: Olive oil remains the most beneficial for liver cleansing. Choose an olive oil that is minimally processed. Look for extra virgin olive oil that comes from fresh olives and does not involve heat or chemicals while producing it.
What is the fastest way to flush your kidneys? ›- Drink more water. Drinking enough fluid every day is essential to a person's overall health. ...
- Reduce sodium intake. ...
- Make dietary changes.
Water: Water is simply the best drink you can have! Water is a zero-calorie, perfectly hydrating, cheap drink. If you are in the earlier stages of kidney disease, choosing water most of the time to quench your thirst will keep your body and kidneys functioning well.
How do you rejuvenate your liver and kidneys? ›- Drink Water. Most people need to drink around two to three liters of water per day. ...
- Low Sodium Diet. ...
- Maintain Normal Blood Pressure. ...
- Maintain a Healthy Body Weight. ...
- Prevent Diabetes. ...
- Exercise. ...
- A Kidney Healthy Diet. ...
- 25 Comments.
In order to enjoy its many benefits, it is recommended that you drink a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil as soon as you wake up on an empty stomach, or at least half an hour before having breakfast.
Is 2 tablespoons of olive oil a day too much? ›As a general rule of thumb, between one and two tablespoons a day is a good amount of olive oil to consume. This goes for both olive oil that you drink for health benefits and also olive oil that you consume with food as part of your regular cooking process.
Is it better to drink olive oil before bed or in the morning? ›Pre-sleep extra virgin olive oil treatment is being suggested to those with insomnia who would like to be able to fall asleep as well as improve the quality of the given rest throughout the night. The anti-inflammatory health benefit is possible once a good olive oil is taken consistently before retiring at night.
What natural ingredients burn belly fat? ›
- Turmeric. Contains curcumin that may help the body burn fat by increasing heat, which, in turn, can help boost metabolism. ...
- Cinnamon. ...
- Fenugreek. ...
- Cayenne pepper. ...
- Cumin. ...
- Ginger. ...
- Oregano. ...
- Ginseng.
If you are suffering from stomach pain and do not want to take medication for it you can try applying olive oil to your belly button for some relief. Massaging the belly button with oil can relieve irritable bowel movement, constipation, bloating and indigestion, nausea, and upset stomach, etc.
What does drinking lemon and water do before bed? ›Hot lemon water may induce relaxation before bed, which could help with sleep. It can also help with general hydration. Lemon contains vitamin C, which is important for several bodily functions. Hot lemon water may provide other benefits, but there is a lack of evidence behind most health claims.
How long does olive oil and lemon juice last in the fridge? ›Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. The olive oil will solidify a bit in the fridge. To soften, let the dressing sit at room temp for a few minutes and stir before using.
Does olive oil with lemon juice help for bloating? ›This results in better nutrient absorption and less bloating. The daily consumption of olive oil provides energy to the body, while filling it with modest amounts of vitamins E and K. The combination of olive oil and lemon water oxygenates and energizes the body, giving you a great boost to start your day.
Does olive oil speed up metabolism? ›A serving of Extra Virgin Olive oil boosts your metabolism which means that you'll burn more calories even while you're resting. Consuming a pure form of a healthy fat and fewer carbs throughout the day, will train your body to use fat for fuel instead of glucose.
Does 2 tablespoons of olive oil help you lose weight? ›Overall, olive oil is an excellent addition to any healthy diet, especially if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Its high MUFA content can help reduce your appetite, increase your metabolism, and reduce your body fat, leading to weight loss.
Can I take extra virgin olive oil in the morning for weight loss? ›Yes, drinking olive oil in the morning may help you keep healthy – It has been proven to contain antioxidants; it can be good for weight loss, for your skin, for your throat, contains anti-inflammatory nutrients and comes with other health benefits, but there are other things to keep in mind too when it comes to your ...
Where do you itch with liver problems? ›Itching associated with liver disease tends to be worse in the late evening and during the night. Some people may itch in one area, such as a limb, the soles of their feet, or the palms of their hands, while others experience an all-over itch.
Can Apple cider vinegar clean out your liver? ›Apple Cider Vinegar
Incredible detoxification actions of ACV work to flush out the harmful toxins from the liver that hinders its normal functions. Studies discloses that regular intake of ACV promotes weight loss, diminishes cholesterol levels, lessen inflammation, and uplift the overall health of the liver.
What does a sluggish liver feel like? ›
In the gastrointestinal system, common symptoms may include indigestion, nausea, burping, bloating, flatulence and a reduced ability to tolerate fatty foods. Elsewhere, other symptoms of a sluggish liver may include: Fatigue. Constipation.
Does turmeric repair the liver? ›In addition, turmeric also aids bile production, which supports the liver detoxification process and prevents fat build-up in the body while restoring liver function. Therefore, turmeric one of the most popular herbal remedies for fatty liver treatment.
What cleanses liver fast? ›- Leafy Greens: ...
- Nuts: ...
- Cruciferous Vegetables: ...
- Turmeric: ...
- Citrus Fruit: ...
- Beets: ...
- Blueberries & Cranberries: ...
- Fatty fish:
- Lemon Water.
- Ginger and Lemon Drink.
- Grapefruit Juice.
- Tumeric Tea.
- Green Tea.
- Chamomile Tea.
- Oat Tea.
- Jujube Fruit Juice.
Gastrointestinal Issues and Ulcers
The acid in lemons can harm the stomach and intestinal linings, leading to ulcers. If you are already prone to ulcers, it's best to avoid drinking lemon water daily.
- Coffee. Coffee is one of the best beverages you can drink to promote liver health. ...
- Tea. ...
- Grapefruit. ...
- Blueberries and cranberries. ...
- Grapes. ...
- Prickly pear. ...
- Beetroot juice. ...
- Cruciferous vegetables.
No. The idea of detoxing is to flush out harmful toxins from the body, but the human body already naturally rids itself of waste through digestion. There is no evidence that any kind of “detox diet” removes toxins from the body or has any notable health benefits.
Does olive oil loosen bowels? ›Olive oil – consuming a teaspoon of olive oil in the morning on an empty stomach can encourage stool to flow through the gut. The oil acts as a lubricant in the digestive system, meaning it's easier for solids to slide through. It also softens up the stool, making it easier to empty your bowels completely.
Is lemon and olive oil good for your liver? ›The combination of lemon juice and olive oil provides you with a simple way of detoxifying your body. The detox will help cleanse your gallbladder and liver – it also lowers cholesterol, clears stored bile, and prevents gallstones.
Should I take olive oil and lemon in the morning or night? ›A lot of health experts recommend eating olive oil in the morning, with just a dash of lemon juice. The lemon is added to make the oil more palatable and also give a boost to the digestive system.
What does drinking olive oil first thing in the morning do? ›
These fatty acids have been proven to aid in the regulation of the immune system, and even help treat some autoimmune diseases. Olive oil in the morning is a great boost to your immune system and get those necessary fatty acids to keep you feeling good and healthy.
How often do you drink mixing olive oil lemon juice and honey? ›A glass of water with honey, olive oil and lemon every morning. The drink is very simple to prepare and it is also very effective, as it protects you against colds and flu, it gives you energy, reduces stomach aches and improves digestion while detoxifying your organism.
What are five herbs that flush fatty liver? ›- Milk thistle (silymarin) Silymarin, often called milk thistle, consists of a group of compounds extracted from milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seeds, including silybin, silychristin, and silydianin ( 10 ). ...
- Ginseng. ...
- Green tea. ...
- Licorice. ...
- Turmeric. ...
- Garlic. ...
- Ginger. ...
- Danshen.
Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Eat a well-balanced diet every day. That's five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables, along with fiber from vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Be sure to include protein for the enzymes that help your body detox naturally.
What are the negative benefits of olive oil? ›The monounsaturated fats in olive oil offer several health benefits. However, excess consumption of olive oil may cause several side effects. It may cause acne, allergies, skin rashes, blackheads, and saturated- and trans-fat-related diseases. It may also cause diarrhea and inflammation in some people.
Is it safe to take olive oil every day? ›As a general rule of thumb, between one and two tablespoons a day is a good amount of olive oil to consume. This goes for both olive oil that you drink for health benefits and also olive oil that you consume with food as part of your regular cooking process.
How much olive oil is safe per day? ›Is two tablespoons of olive oil a day too much? Have you wondered: is two tablespoons of olive oil a day too much? Well, according to the experts, they recommend daily consumption of about 40 ml of extra virgin olive oil, which means four tablespoons a day, representing about 37 grams.
Is taking a spoonful of olive oil bad for you? ›Consuming between one teaspoon and one tablespoon (three teaspoons) of olive oil should be enough to get you the benefits without upsetting your stomach. While you can drink olive oil at any time of day, many people say that they prefer to do it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
Does olive oil interact with medications? ›Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with OLIVE OIL. Olive oil might lower blood pressure. Taking olive oil along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely.
Is olive oil a blood thinner? ›Olive oil might slow blood clotting. Taking olive oil along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Is olive oil unhealthy or healthy? ›
Olive oil is extremely healthy. It's not only loaded with beneficial fatty acids and powerful antioxidants but also a dietary staple for some of the world's healthiest populations.
Is olive oil good for the liver? ›“Olive oil is very healthy for your liver,” notes Dr. Lindenmeyer. “Olive oil raises your good cholesterol, which is actually protective for your liver against fatty liver disease and also separately good for your heart.”
Is it better to drink olive oil in the morning or at night? ›The morning advocates claim that taking a shot of extra virgin olive oil on an empty stomach jumpstarts digestion and provides optimal absorption into your system. The nighttime crowd suggests that the EVOO's natural anti-inflammatory properties do their best work while the body is at rest.
Can you drink olive oil and lemon before bed? ›Drinking olive oil and lemon juice is a surefire way to get the benefits of both health-promoting ingredients. Whether you choose to drink first thing in the morning or before bed, your body will thank you for the nutrient boost.
What does Mayo Clinic say about olive oil? ›Healthy fats instead of unhealthy ones
Olive oil is the primary source of added fat in the Mediterranean diet. Olive oil provides monounsaturated fat, which lowers total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (or "bad") cholesterol levels. Nuts and seeds also contain monounsaturated fat.
Most people with high blood pressure know to reduce sodium in their diets, but adding olive oil can also help to improve outcomes. Olive oil is well known for its role in reducing heart disease and atherosclerosis and can also help reduce blood pressure for people who suffer from Hypertension.
Can olive oil reduce belly fat? ›Including extra virgin olive oil being the best olive oil for the Mediterranean diet contributes significantly to weight loss. Eating foods rich in monounsaturated fatty acids such as are found in extra virgin olive oil will help reduce your belly fat storage.
What happens if you take a tablespoon of olive oil everyday? ›The ancient Greeks were on to something when they referred to olive oil as an "elixir of youth and health." Centuries later, research offers evidence about the benefits of olive oil in our daily diets. Consuming more than half a tablespoon of olive oil a day may lower heart disease risk, a 2020 study found.
Can I drink water after taking olive oil? ›This helps cleanse the body, and gives the body a kick-start for the day. Usually, the small cup of olive oil is followed by a small glass of warm water with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Some people even suggest that a tablespoon or two of olive oil may be all you need to fully reap its benefits.
How long does olive oil take to lower blood pressure? ›Our analysis of seven key studies found that EVOO with a total phenol content of at least 161 mg/kg at a minimum intake of two tablespoons (25 ml) a day could significantly decrease systolic blood pressure in as little as three weeks.