A modern wellness trend is gaining traction online, promising a simple path to glowing skin, improved digestion, and a boost in energy. The “lemon olive oil shot”—a morning concoction of extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice—has become popular on social media, particularly within the “wellness girlie” community. But is this daily ritual backed by science, or is it just another fleeting internet fad?
The trend gained prominence following an Instagram post on January 28, 2026, by content creators Kateri and Isabelle of Everything Krause, who reported positive health transformations after a 30-day trial. They suggest mixing 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and consuming it on an empty stomach each morning. Proponents claim this simple shot offers a range of benefits, from improved digestion and glowing skin to increased energy levels.
What are the Claimed Benefits of the Lemon Olive Oil Shot?
According to Everything Krause’s post, the lemon olive oil shot is a multifaceted wellness booster. The purported benefits include improved digestive health—reducing bloating and supporting regular digestion—aesthetic gains like clearer skin and thicker, shinier hair, internal support for liver detoxification and lymphatic drainage, and a sustained energy boost throughout the day. The creators emphasized the importance of using high-quality, cold-pressed organic extra virgin olive oil, attributing the benefits to the oil’s ‘polyphenols’ (antioxidants).
The Expert Verdict: Separating Fact from Fiction
To assess the scientific basis of these claims, Dr. Shireen Furtado, a senior consultant in medical and cosmetic dermatology at Aster CMI Hospital in Bengaluru, weighed in. Even as acknowledging the nutritional value of both ingredients, Dr. Furtado cautioned against expecting dramatic, immediate results. “Drinking a lemon and olive oil shot can support overall skin and hair health, but it is significant to understand that it works slowly and indirectly rather than giving instant visible results,” she explained.
Dr. Furtado elaborated on the specific benefits. The monounsaturated fats and vitamin E in olive oil contribute to maintaining the skin’s barrier and hydration from within. Meanwhile, the vitamin C in lemon is essential for collagen production. Interestingly, she pointed out that lemon’s vitamin C improves iron absorption from food – and since low iron is a leading cause of hair thinning, this shot could indirectly contribute to stronger hair.
Limitations and What the Shot Can’t Do
While the shot may offer some support for liver function, Dr. Furtado clarified that it is not a cure-all. It won’t treat medical conditions such as hormonal acne or melasma, genetic pattern baldness, thyroid-related hair loss, or severe dandruff. “Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, which help maintain the skin’s natural barrier, reduce dryness, and support overall hydration from within, while lemon contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps in collagen production, protects the skin from free radical damage, and may support a brighter and more even-looking complexion over time,” she said. “When the body receives adequate antioxidants and healthy fats regularly, it can reduce internal inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and support better circulation, all of which contribute to healthier-looking skin and shinier hair.”
For hair health, olive oil’s healthy fats may help nourish the scalp, while vitamin C in lemon improves iron absorption. However, Dr. Furtado stressed that correcting nutritional deficiencies alone may lead to stronger, smoother, and less brittle hair over time, but this drink won’t address underlying medical conditions.
Is the Lemon Olive Oil Shot Safe for Everyone?
Before incorporating this shot into your daily routine, Dr. Furtado highlighted potential cautions. “It is necessary to apply this mixture in moderation due to the fact that too much lemon can irritate the stomach lining, worsen acidity, and, in some cases, trigger acid reflux,” she warned. Excess olive oil adds calories, potentially contributing to weight gain, which can negatively impact skin health. “Clear skin and healthy hair depend much more on a well-balanced diet, quality sleep, and sun protection,” Dr. Furtado emphasized. She added that the lemon-olive oil shot should be considered a supportive addition to a healthy lifestyle, not a replacement for medical treatment or a comprehensive skincare routine. Individuals with sensitive stomachs or those monitoring their caloric intake might uncover it more beneficial to simply drizzle olive oil over a salad.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. No independent verification of the claims has been conducted.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
As wellness trends continue to emerge online, it’s crucial to approach them with a critical eye and prioritize evidence-based practices. While the lemon olive oil shot may offer some nutritional benefits, it’s unlikely to be a magic bullet for achieving optimal health. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential effects of this combination, and individual results may vary.
What are your thoughts on this wellness trend? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below.
