What Is Olive Leaf Extract Good For?

Small-scale studies conducted on olive leaf extract (OLE) support its medicinal uses and health benefits for the following:

1. Infection-fighting and immune-boosting properties:
   • OLEs have strong antiviral properties, making them effective against influenza viruses, herpes, rotavirus, and the family of respiratory syncytial viruses, which are commonly acquired by our children.
   • OLE has antibacterial properties against E. coli, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (which is the antibiotic-resistant form of pathogenic bacteria).
   • Antifungal properties of OLE derivatives can kill fungi, molds, and yeast, particularly those that affect your respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.
2. Reduces blood pressure and has cardiovascular benefits:
   • The most well-known benefit of olive leaf extract is its ability to lower blood pressure, particularly in mild-to-moderate hypertension.
   • OLE’s antioxidant activity protects the hypothalamus (part of the brain responsible for temperature control, hormonal coordination, and sleep-wake cycles) specifically from oxidative stress.
   • Oleuropein lowers lipids such as triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
   • Antioxidant activity of OLE benefits the heart by preventing free radical damage to the cell membranes in the blood vessels.
   • This is an important mechanism for preventing atherosclerosis or plaque, particularly in the coronary and cerebral arteries, and it contributes to a lower risk of heart attack and ischemic stroke.
3. Inflammation:
   • Oleuropein, along with other powerful antioxidants found in the gut, may act as an anti-inflammatory agent.
4. Mental health:
   • Depression, stress, and anxiety are all complex mental health disorders that can be caused by various factors.
   • Preliminary research suggests that oleuropein, along with other antioxidants, may aid in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder–induced anxiety, stress, and depression by increasing serotonin levels.
5. Aid in treating diabetes:
   • Olive leaf extract has a hypoglycemic effect through two mechanisms.
     • A reduction in glucose-induced insulin release
     • An increase in glucose uptake at the cellular level
   • Human studies report that oral OLE significantly lowers hemoglobin A1C, reduces oxidative damage, and aids in tissue recovery.
6. Improves brain function:
   • Oleuropein, a powerful antioxidant, reduces oxidative damage in the realm of age-related free radical accumulation in the brain.
   • This is especially important in treating cognitive decline and various forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease.
7. Skincare:
   • The main active ingredient in olive leaf, secoiridoid oleuropein, is extremely beneficial in skincare.
   • OLE has a unique ability to heal skin wounds and scars.
   • Because OLE contains flavonoids and oleanolicsyre, it stimulates cells in connective tissue, improving skin condition. As a result, it is effective against wrinkles and fine lines.
8. Reduces the risk of cancer:
   • Because polyphenols in OLE are structurally similar to estrogens, it is hypothesized that they interact with estrogen receptors to reduce the risk and progression of hormone-related cancer.
   • The polyphenol antioxidant compound hydroxytyrosol, found in OLE, inhibits the growth of human breast cancer cells. Another study discovered that OLE can fight leukemia.
9. Potential weight loss benefits:
   • According to research, OLE may help with obesity by modulating the expression of obesity-related genes.

Olive leaf extract is a natural supplement high in antioxidants that, when taken correctly, may help support the immune system.

It is probably safe to consume olive leaf in small doses for a short period; however, some may experience side effects, such as:

• Some people may experience an allergic reaction to olive leaf extract (OLE).
• There haven't been enough studies conducted to determine whether it's safe to use OLE for an extended period.
• Extremely high concentrations of olive oil may result in liver dysfunction.
• It is unknown whether OLE is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• If you have low blood pressure or are taking blood pressure medication, you should avoid OLE because it can lower your blood pressure even further.
• Some people have reported headaches and other mild symptoms because of the detoxification effect of OLE.

There are currently no established guidelines for olive leaf extracts (OLEs).

• Most researchers recommend adding one to two drops of olive leaf tincture to a glass of water before drinking.
• If you use capsules, you can take one capsule three times a day with a total daily intake of between 500 and 1,000 mg.
• According to studies, the correct dose is critical for maximum effect, which will be determined after the animal and human trials.

Researchers warned that consuming too much olive leaf extract may cause more harm than good.

It is important to note that there have only been a few small studies on olive leaf extracts. They may have a medicinal role when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Because of the potential for serious side effects and potential drug interactions, OLEs should be initiated only after consulting your doctor.