Aeons Ancient Roots olive oil commands nearly £50 for a 250ml bottle, positioning itself as a premium high-polyphenol extra virgin olive oil from Tuscan volcanic soil. But independent lab verification for those polyphenol claims remains unavailable—a gap that matters when competitors publish specific mg/kg figures at lower prices.
Origin: Volcanic Tuscan soil · Pressing: Cold-pressed within 24 hours · Polyphenols: Naturally high · Size: 250 ml · Awards: Award-winning
Quick snapshot
- Tuscan origin with volcanic soil sourcing (Aeons)
- Cold-pressed within 24 hours of harvest (Aeons)
- Award-winning quality (Crown Supplements)
- Exact polyphenol mg/kg not publicly specified (UK Blogspot)
- Independent lab verification remains unavailable (High Polyphenol Olive Oil)
- Organic certification status unconfirmed (UK Blogspot)
- 2014: Systematic review links olive oil to reduced heart disease risk (PMC)
- 2021: Khandouzi study shows 22% CRP reduction from high-polyphenol EVOO (PMC)
- 2025: UK investigation into Ancient Roots/Aeons pricing and claims (UK Blogspot)
- Aeons continues sales under new branding
- Competitors like ONSURI publish specific mg/kg data
- Buyers can demand third-party lab reports before purchase
The table below summarises the core attributes buyers need before evaluating the product against alternatives.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Ancient Roots by Dr. Sarah Brewer |
| Origin | Tuscany, Italy |
| Type | Extra virgin olive oil |
| Key Feature | High polyphenols |
| Bottle Size | 250 ml |
Is Ancient Roots extra virgin olive oil good for you?
The health angle drives most purchases, and the brand leans heavily on Dr. Sarah Brewer’s endorsement alongside claims about anti-inflammatory properties. The core promise: polyphenols in this oil work like a natural ibuprofen without the side effects.
Heart and skin support
The European Food Safety Authority notes that olive oil polyphenols “help protect blood lipids from oxidative stress” (Masworth). The American Heart Association reports that people who use more than 0.5 tablespoon of olive oil daily have a lower risk of heart disease (Masworth). Polyphenols reduce morbidity in cardiovascular, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer via their antioxidant activity (PMC).
High-phenol olive oil reduces ox-LDL and MDA oxidative stress biomarkers more effectively than low-phenol alternatives, according to a meta-analysis published in Food Science & Nutrition (Wiley Online Library).
Polyphenol content
Oleocanthal, a polyphenol unique to extra virgin olive oil, functions similarly to ibuprofen in the body (UK Blogspot). Hydroxytyrosol scavenges free radicals and activates endogenous antioxidants (PMC). Ancient Roots claims ultra-high polyphenol content exceeding standard EVOO (UK Blogspot), but the exact mg/kg figure isn’t publicly available.
User reviews
Buyers report flavor notes of green apple, grass, artichoke, and a peppery finish—markers that typically indicate high polyphenol presence (Crown Supplements). However, some UK customers note that verifying polyphenol levels independently proves difficult (UK Blogspot).
The implication: the underlying science on polyphenols is solid, but Ancient Roots doesn’t publish lab results that would let buyers confirm the specific levels they’re paying a premium for.
Where does Ancient Roots olive oil come from?
Tuscany remains the heartland of premium Italian olive oil, but Ancient Roots adds a specific geological twist to its origin story.
Tuscan volcanic soil
The olives are sourced from groves growing in volcanic soil, which the brand claims delivers higher mineral content—particularly magnesium and potassium—that boosts polyphenol levels (Aeons). Volcanic soil does influence mineral uptake in plants, though the direct causal link to higher polyphenols in the finished oil isn’t independently verified in published literature.
Production process
Ancient Roots is cold-pressed within 24 hours of harvest (Aeons), which is faster than many mass-market brands and helps preserve sensitive polyphenols. The olives are pressed at cold temperatures to avoid heat degradation of those compounds.
What this means: the origin story is credible but specific to Tuscan groves with volcanic geology—the same terroir that underpins other premium Italian EVOOs.
Which olive oil has the highest polyphenols in the UK?
This is where the comparison gets sharp. UK buyers have options, and rivals are publishing data that Ancient Roots doesn’t.
Ancient Roots vs competitors
ONSURI Arbequina oil for the 25/26 harvest specifies polyphenols exceeding 1000 mg/kg (High Polyphenol Olive Oil). Ancient Roots has not released a comparable figure. Koroneiki olives offer among the highest polyphenol levels among early-harvest EVOOs (Masworth), and Greek EVOOs generally rank high in polyphenol content (Crown Supplements).
Lab results
A 2021 study by Khandouzi et al. demonstrated that high-polyphenol EVOO reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) levels by 22% and interleukin-6 (IL-6) significantly (PMC). High polyphenol EVOO is stable against oxidation, reducing carcinogenic lipid peroxidation (PMC).
The olive oil market is saturated with “high polyphenol” claims, but not all brands publish third-party lab results. For UK buyers who want hard numbers, competitors like ONSURI provide specific mg/kg data that Ancient Roots currently does not.
The trade-off: Ancient Roots carries Dr. Brewer’s endorsement and brand authority, but lacks the transparent lab data that budget-conscious or scientifically-minded buyers increasingly expect.
What does a spoonful of olive oil before bed do?
The “daily spoonful” trend circulates around social media, with claims about overnight metabolism support and improved sleep quality.
Sleep benefits
A 2020 Nutrients review found that olive oil polyphenols feed gut bacteria, which improves immunity and may indirectly support sleep regulation (Masworth). High phenolic olive oil antioxidants cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially protecting against cognitive decline (Artisan Olive Oil Company), though direct sleep-specific studies remain limited.
Daily intake effects
Consuming more than 0.5 tablespoon daily correlates with lower heart disease risk according to the American Heart Association (Masworth). The anti-inflammatory properties of oleocanthal—similar to ibuprofen without pharmaceutical side effects—may support overnight recovery (The Governor EVOO).
Morning or evening timing for a spoonful remains largely unstudied for polyphenol-specific effects. What matters more is consistent daily intake over time, which aligns with the Mediterranean diet pattern linked to better cardiovascular outcomes.
The pattern: any high-polyphenol EVOO taken daily over months delivers the documented benefits—no need for the premium Ancient Roots bottle specifically.
Where to buy Ancient Roots olive oil?
The pricing question is where UK buyers often pause. A 250ml bottle commands nearly £50, which sits well above typical EVOO pricing.
Retailers
The product is available through Aeons.co.uk (the brand’s official store), Amazon UK, and the Artisan Olive Oil Company (Artisan Olive Oil Company).
Price and availability
The 250ml bottle costs nearly £50 in the UK (UK Blogspot). For context, that prices out at roughly £200 per litre—a significant premium over most supermarket EVOOs and even many specialty oils. The brand now operates under the Aeons name (UK Blogspot), having rebranded from Ancient Roots.
Critics note that Ancient Roots makes independent polyphenol verification difficult for customers (UK Blogspot). Before spending nearly £50 on a 250ml bottle, buyers should consider whether the brand’s endorsement and packaging justify the price—or whether competitors with published lab data offer better transparency at lower cost.
The implication: for buyers prioritizing verified polyphenol content, competitors like ONSURI publish specific numbers that Ancient Roots doesn’t. The brand’s Dr. Brewer association carries authority, but the science itself doesn’t require the premium label.
Comparison: Ancient Roots vs UK competitors
Three high-polyphenol EVOOs in the UK market, three different transparency approaches.
| Brand | Polyphenol Claim | Price (250ml) | Lab Data Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ancient Roots / Aeons | Ultra-high (unspecified) | Nearly £50 | No public mg/kg |
| ONSURI Arbequina | >1000 mg/kg | Lower | Published |
| Greek Koroneiki EVOO | High (early harvest) | Mid-range | Varies by brand |
The pattern: competitors with published lab data undercut Ancient Roots on price while offering verifiable polyphenol counts.
Specifications
The specifications table below consolidates the technical details from the brand and verified sources.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product type | Extra virgin olive oil |
| Origin | Tuscany, Italy |
| Soil type | Volcanic |
| Processing | Cold-pressed within 24 hours of harvest |
| Bottle size | 250 ml |
| Brand | Ancient Roots (now Aeons) |
| Endorsement | Dr. Sarah Brewer |
| Certification | Not specified (organic status unclear) |
Upsides and downsides
Upsides
- Dr. Sarah Brewer endorsement adds brand credibility
- Documented anti-inflammatory polyphenols (oleocanthal, hydroxytyrosol)
- Cold-pressed within 24 hours preserves sensitive compounds
- Volcanic Tuscan origin aligns with premium EVOO standards
- Award-winning recognition
Downsides
- Nearly £50 for 250ml (≈£200/litre) is steep
- No public mg/kg polyphenol figure published
- Organic certification status unconfirmed
- Independent lab verification unavailable
- Competitors publish specific data at lower prices
What experts say
“The European Food Safety Authority notes, olive-oil polyphenols ‘help protect blood lipids from oxidative stress.'” — European Food Safety Authority via Masworth (UK health publication)
“According to the American Heart Association, people who use more than half a tablespoon of olive oil a day have a lower risk of heart disease.” — American Heart Association via Masworth
“Daily consumption of HP-EVOO reduced CRP levels by 22% (p = 0.01), while IL-6 significantly dropped (p = 0.015).” — Khandouzi et al. (PMC)
“Oleocanthal from archives like PubMed Central show it functions similarly to ibuprofen in the body.” — UK Blogspot
For UK buyers weighing whether to invest in Ancient Roots, the choice hinges on what they value most: Dr. Brewer’s endorsement and the premium terroir story, or transparent lab data and competitive pricing. The science on polyphenols is solid and well-documented across peer-reviewed sources, but the specific polyphenol count in Ancient Roots remains unpublished. Competitors like ONSURI already provide specific mg/kg figures for less money, which means the burden of proof for that premium falls on the brand to clarify.
Related reading: Probiotics for Gut Health – Best Strains and UK Guide · Exercises to Lose Belly Fat – Science-Backed Strategies
Ancient Roots olive oil’s exceptional polyphenols and health claims find strong support in this detailed Ancient Roots review, which also notes its rebranding to Aeons.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if you take a spoonful of olive oil every day?
Daily consumption of more than 0.5 tablespoon correlates with lower heart disease risk according to the American Heart Association. Over time, consistent intake of high-polyphenol EVOO may reduce inflammation markers, support cardiovascular health, and provide antioxidant benefits. The key is regular, long-term use—not a single dose.
Should I take a spoonful of olive oil in morning or at night?
No strong evidence favors either timing specifically for polyphenol benefits. What matters is consistent daily intake. Some prefer evening for the potential overnight anti-inflammatory effects of oleocanthal, but morning use aligns with Mediterranean dietary patterns. Choose whichever fits your routine.
Can olive oil help with scars?
The vitamin E and polyphenols in olive oil have antioxidant properties that support skin health, and some anecdotal evidence suggests topical application may soften scar tissue. However, no clinical trials specifically for scar healing from olive oil exist. For medical skin concerns, consult a dermatologist rather than relying on dietary oil.
What is the price of Ancient Roots olive oil?
A 250ml bottle costs nearly £50 in the UK. That works out to approximately £200 per litre, placing it at the premium end of the specialty EVOO market. Compare this to ONSURI Arbequina oil, which publishes its >1000 mg/kg polyphenol count at a lower price point.
What are the benefits of Ancient Roots olive oil?
The documented benefits of high-polyphenol EVOO include reduced oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory effects from oleocanthal, protection of blood lipids from oxidative damage per EFSA, and potentially lower heart disease risk. Ancient Roots adds Dr. Sarah Brewer’s endorsement and volcanic Tuscan terroir—but without published mg/kg data, the specific polyphenol content remains unverified.
Which brand of olive oil has the most polyphenols in it?
Among UK-available options, ONSURI Arbequina publishes >1000 mg/kg for its 25/26 harvest. Greek Koroneiki early-harvest EVOOs also rank among the highest. Ancient Roots claims ultra-high polyphenols but does not publish a specific figure, making direct comparison impossible.
What are 5 foods that will help you sleep through the night?
While no food guarantees uninterrupted sleep, these five support sleep quality: almonds (magnesium for muscle relaxation), kiwifruit (serotonin precursors), chamomile tea (calming compounds), tart cherry juice (natural melatonin), and high-polyphenol olive oil (anti-inflammatory effects via gut-brain axis). Combining these within a balanced diet supports overall sleep architecture.
Hanna oversees reviews and standards at DailyBrief. With a background in health and consumer journalism, she second-reads our health, money and other sensitive articles against primary sources — the NHS, NICE, Mayo Clinic and official government guidance — before they publish, and writes much of our wellbeing and personal-finance coverage.