How to make lemon water with olive oil for a simple wellness boost

December 22, 2025 •

5 min read

According to a 2025 review on this combination, ancient Mediterranean cultures have long revered the health benefits of pairing citrus with olive oil, leading to the trendy and nutrient-dense beverage. Making lemon water with olive oil is a straightforward process that blends heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin C into one easy-to-prepare elixir.

Quick Summary

An ancient Mediterranean tradition combines extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon to create a simple, nutrient-dense wellness beverage. This elixir, often taken in the morning, is known for its digestive support, antioxidant properties, and immune-boosting vitamins. It can be made by blending ingredients for a creamy texture or stirred for a quick shot.

Key Points

Combine EVOO and Lemon Juice for Health: Mixing extra virgin olive oil with fresh lemon juice creates a potent elixir rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
Choose Your Preparation Style: Create a quick shot with lemon juice and olive oil, or blend a creamier version using a whole, organic lemon and water.
Best Consumed in the Morning: Many find taking the drink on an empty stomach enhances absorption and digestive benefits.
Use Organic and High-Quality Ingredients: For maximum benefit, always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh, organic, unwaxed lemons, especially if you include the peel.
Supports Digestion and Cardiovascular Health: The combination can help relieve constipation and support heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol.
Protects Skin and Boosts Immunity: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, the drink supports collagen production for skin health and strengthens the immune system.
Manage Acidity and Calories: Use a straw to protect tooth enamel from the lemon's acidity, and be mindful that olive oil adds calories to your daily intake.
Consult a Doctor for Concerns: Individuals with pre-existing conditions like GERD or those on certain medications should consult a healthcare provider before starting a new health regimen.

Why add olive oil to lemon water?

The combination of lemon and high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) brings together two powerhouse ingredients celebrated in the Mediterranean diet. While individual health claims for each ingredient are well-documented, the combination provides a concentrated dose of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. EVOO is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, potent antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Fresh lemon juice, on the other hand, is a fantastic source of vitamin C and flavonoids, which support immune function and help the body absorb nutrients more effectively. Together, they create a functional beverage that supports overall well-being. The healthy fats also add a satisfying richness to the otherwise tart citrus flavor.

Basic recipe for lemon water with olive oil

There are two main ways to make this popular wellness drink: a quick, simple shot or a more substantial, creamy elixir. Both methods are effective, so choose the one that best fits your preference and daily routine.

Method 1: The Quick Wellness Shot

For a fast and efficient way to consume this elixir, the shot method is ideal. This is often taken on an empty stomach about 20-30 minutes before breakfast.

Ingredients:

Juice of ½ fresh lemon
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a small glass or shot glass.
Add one tablespoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Stir the mixture thoroughly. Note that the oil and juice will separate, so stir just before drinking.
Drink the shot and, if desired, follow with a small glass of lukewarm water.

Method 2: The Creamy Blended Elixir

This option creates a smoother, more palatable drink by blending the whole lemon. This method also incorporates the beneficial fiber and nutrients found in the lemon peel, assuming you use an organic, unwaxed lemon.

Ingredients:

1 whole, organic lemon, washed and cut into quarters
2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
3 cups filtered water
1-inch knob of fresh ginger (optional)
1-2 tablespoons raw honey (optional, to taste)

Instructions:

Combine the whole lemon pieces, olive oil, filtered water, ginger, and honey into a blender.
Blend on high speed for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Strain the blended liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a jar to remove any remaining pulp or seeds.
Store the elixir in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before each use.

Comparison of Preparation Methods


Feature	Quick Shot Method	Creamy Blended Elixir Method
Preparation Time	Minimal (under 5 minutes)	Medium (10-15 minutes, including straining)
Ingredients	Lemon juice, EVOO	Whole lemon, EVOO, water, optional additions
Flavor Profile	Intense, potent, very tart	Milder, creamier, can be adjusted with honey
Nutritional Value	High in vitamin C and oleic acid	Includes additional fiber, citrus oils, and nutrients from the whole lemon rind
Servings	Single serving	Multiple servings, can be stored
Best for...	A fast, daily health boost	A smoother, more enjoyable drink to sip throughout the morning

Tips for getting the best results

To maximize the nutritional benefits and taste of your lemon water with olive oil, consider these expert tips:

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, organic lemons, especially if you're blending the entire fruit to avoid pesticides and wax coatings. Likewise, use cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil for the highest antioxidant content.
Choose the Right Timing: For some, consuming the shot on an empty stomach can improve absorption and digestive benefits, but starting with a smaller amount or taking it with food can prevent nausea if you're sensitive.
Protect Your Teeth: The acidity of lemon juice can weaken tooth enamel over time. To protect your teeth, drink the mixture quickly, use a straw, or rinse your mouth with plain water afterward. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
Consider Additional Ingredients: If the taste is too strong, dilute the shot with lukewarm water. Adding a touch of raw honey can balance the tartness, while a small piece of fresh ginger can provide an extra anti-inflammatory kick.
Listen to Your Body: This elixir isn't a miracle cure, and its effects can vary between individuals. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust the amount or timing as needed. People with GERD or other digestive issues should be cautious.

Potential benefits of a lemon and olive oil drink

While scientific research on this specific combination is limited, the individual ingredients offer significant, evidence-backed health benefits. The synergistic effect can be a powerful addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Digestive Health

Olive oil acts as a natural lubricant, aiding in bowel regularity and easing constipation. Lemon juice helps stimulate bile flow, which assists in fat digestion. The combination promotes overall gastrointestinal health and can alleviate bloating.

Antioxidant Power

Both lemons and EVOO are packed with antioxidants, including vitamin C and polyphenols. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals that contribute to cellular damage and inflammation throughout the body. This provides a valuable form of cellular protection.

Heart Health

As a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats that have been shown to support cardiovascular wellness by lowering "bad" LDL cholesterol and raising "good" HDL cholesterol. Paired with lemon's antioxidant properties, this can help protect arterial walls from oxidative damage.

Skin and Immune Support

Lemon's high vitamin C content is crucial for collagen production, supporting skin elasticity and a healthy complexion. Combined with the polyphenols and vitamin E in olive oil, the drink offers comprehensive support for skin wellness from within. It also provides an immune-boosting effect, helping to strengthen the body's natural defenses.

Conclusion

Incorporating lemon water with olive oil into your daily routine is a simple and effective way to enjoy the combined benefits of these two potent ingredients. Whether you opt for a quick morning shot or a creamy blended elixir, this beverage is easy to prepare and provides a concentrated dose of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. While not a cure-all, it offers significant support for digestive health, heart health, and immunity. As with any wellness ritual, consistency and the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients are key to reaping the rewards. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you have any pre-existing health conditions before starting a new dietary regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are two popular methods. For a quick dose, mix 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil with the juice of half a lemon. For a creamier, milder drink with extra nutrients, blend one organic, whole lemon with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 3 cups of filtered water.

It is highly recommended to use a high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). EVOO is extracted without heat or chemicals, preserving its beneficial antioxidants and healthy fats better than regular olive oil.

Most people can safely take olive oil and lemon juice on an empty stomach. Taking it about 30 minutes before breakfast may improve absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. However, individuals with a sensitive stomach may prefer to take it with a meal to avoid potential nausea or discomfort.

While the drink contains antioxidants that support your body's natural detoxification processes, it is a myth that it is a 'miracle detox cure'. Your liver and kidneys efficiently handle detoxification naturally, and this drink serves as a wellness boost rather than a replacement for those functions.

The monounsaturated fats in olive oil can promote a feeling of fullness, which may help reduce overall calorie intake. Additionally, vitamin C from the lemon assists in producing carnitine, which transports fat to be burned for energy. However, olive oil is calorie-dense, so it's not an instant weight-loss solution.

The high acidity of lemon juice can potentially harm tooth enamel over time. To minimize this risk, it is recommended to drink the mixture quickly, use a straw, or rinse your mouth with plain water immediately afterward. You should wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.

If you are blending the elixir, using the whole, organic lemon (including the peel) adds beneficial fiber, flavonoids, and other nutrients. For the simple shot method, just the juice is sufficient. The peel is especially important for the 'creamy elixir' preparation.