Olive leaf is the therapeutic part of the olive tree (Olea europea). This tree is native to Asia Minor and Syria and cultivated in Mediterranean countries, South Australia, Chile, and Peru. It was in Egypt where the medicinal properties of Olive leaf began, it was used to treat a variety of health conditions. It was also used by Egyptians when they mummify their pharaohs. For them, apart from the olive leaf benefits, it also signifies heavenly power. According to historical records, olive leaf was prescribed by Hippocrates and Pliny for gum inflammations, boils, insomnia, and nausea. In the early 1800s, pulverized olive leaves were used as treatment for fevers.
Because of the therapeutic uses of Olive leaf recorded in history, it attracted researchers to discover what the plant is really capable of doing in terms of health promotion and disease prevention. Studies revealed that olive leaf, especially its extract can increase energy levels, control blood pressure, and boost the immune system. The active ingredient in olive leaf responsible for its ability to treat certain conditions is known to be oleuropein. In 1995, olive leaf extract became available as a supplement to produce a wide variety of health benefits.
Olive Leaf Benefits
- Olive leaf possesses anti-viral properties capable of fighting common viral infections like flu, common colds, candidiasis, diarrhea, gonorrhea, shingles, hepatitis, meningitis, and encephalitis.
- As a preventive agent, regular use of olive leaf extract can prevent some virus-caused diseases as it boosts the immune system.
- The active ingredients in olive leaf can help lower blood pressure by increasing blood flow in the coronary arteries and by inhibiting the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE).
- Olive leaf can fight infections caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria, fungi, and yeasts.
- Olive leaf extract is very beneficial to those with chronic fatigue syndrome. It interferes with the production of micro-toxins, the most common cause of chronic fatigue. Olive leaf extract enhances energy levels in these patients and gives them an improved sense of well being.
- Flavonoids present in Olive leaf extract have anti-inflammatory properties and may be a safer alternative to common Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Studies suggest that Olive leaf supplements can lower blood cholesterol levels. This action is very favourable to those with atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and other diseases caused by hypercholesterolemia.
- The anti-oxidant power of Olive leaf can slow the effects of aging and gives a younger and healthy feel.
Olive Leaf Side Effects
Generally, Olive leaf supplements produce no harmful side effects. During the first days of use, you may experience the “die off” effect which is a period of detoxification. This side effect is actually beneficial as your body vigorously gets rid of harmful toxins and parasites. Symptoms of “die off” effect includes diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, joint and muscle pains, and flu-like symptoms.
