Oleocanthal olive oil molecule, molecular model. Atoms are represented as spheres and colour-coded; carbon (green), hydrogen (white) and oxygen (purple). This molecule is found naturally in fresh olives and good quality olive oil. It has been found to have the same anti-inflammatory action as non-steroidal painkillers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. This anti-inflammatory property may explain some of the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet.