Compounds found in the skin of olives may help fight colon cancer, according to new research conducted in Spain.

Researchers from the University of Granada and the University of Barcelona studied the effects of maslinic acid, which is derived from olive-skin pomace.

They found that this acid was able to significantly inhibit cell proliferation and lead to apoptotic death among colon cancer cells.

The researchers suggested that natural ingredients could be used to develop inexpensive and widely available health resources to protect against deadly diseases.

“Chemopreventive agents of a natural origin, often a part of our daily diet, may provide a cheap, effective way of controlling such diseases as cancer of the colon,” a press release from the universities stated.

Apparently, many plants with medicinal properties contain low concentrations of maslinic acid, but the concentration in olive skins is close to 80 percent, according to the scientists.

Other properties of olives may also have cancer-fighting effects. Separate research has suggested the phytochemicals present in extra virgin olive oil can help protect against breast cancer