Thriving in the sun-kissed Mediterranean regions of the world, the popular olive tree that bears the olive fruit has long been celebrated for its health benefits. The olive tree, scientifically known as Olea europaea, is extremely popular owing to its culinary and medicinal attributes and is cultivated since ancient times, with historical records dating back over 6,000 years. While the fruit has been adored by everyone for several reasons, the overlooked olive leaves are an elixir of therapeutic properties too. From ancient civilizations to modern science, the medicinal potential of olive leaf extracts has been an area of interest for researchers and health enthusiasts. The article explores the fabulous benefits of this remarkable botanical wonder.
Also Read: Olive: Must Know Health Incentives Of Eating This Nutrition Loaded Fruit
What Makes Olive Leaves So Special?
Unsurprisingly, the olive fruit and oil we all know have cuisine and traditional medicine, but the leaves also play a supporting role, offering their unique health-promoting compounds. The process of extracting potent phytochemicals from olive leaves involves careful extraction methods to preserve their therapeutic properties. The leaves are gathered from organically grown olive trees. After harvesting, they undergo an extraction process, mostly involving water or alcohol, to obtain the concentrated bioactive compounds. The olive leaf extract is then standardized to contain specific levels of key constituents, ensuring consistency.
Key Components of Olive Leaf Extracts
The key compounds of olive leaf extracts that provide this herb its amazing holistic benefits include the following:
Oleuropein: Oleuropein is a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cardiovascular benefits. It helps protect cells from oxidative damage and supports overall health and well-being.
Hydroxytyrosol: Another powerful antioxidant found in olive leaves, hydroxytyrosol is known for its cardioprotective effects, helping to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular function.
Polyphenols: Olive leaves are rich in polyphenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributing to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These phytochemicals play a crucial role in supporting immune function and combating oxidative stress.
Triterpenoids: Olive leaf extracts also contain triterpenoid compounds, known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These compounds help bolster the immune system and promote overall health.
Also Read: Olive Oil: 5 Incredible Ways It Benefits Your Skin And Hair
Health Benefits of Olive Leaf Extracts
The therapeutic profile of olive leaf extracts contains a wide range of health benefits such as:
Provides Immune Support: Olive leaf extracts possess potent antimicrobial properties, making them effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They help strengthen the immune system and protect against infections, including colds, flu, and respiratory ailments.
Bolsters Cardiovascular Health: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of olive leaf extracts support cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative stress, lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, and promoting healthy cholesterol levels. They also help prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Promotes Longevity: Rich in antioxidants, olive leaf extracts help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. This antioxidant activity helps slow down the aging process, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and promotes overall longevity.
Anti-inflammatory Action: Chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Olive leaf extracts help combat inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
Maintains Digestive Health: Olive leaf extracts have been traditionally used to support digestive health and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. Their antimicrobial properties help combat harmful bacteria in the gut, while their anti-inflammatory effects soothe digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome.
How To Incorporate Olive Leaf Extracts Into Your Wellness Routine?
A convenient and potent way to get the benefits of these leaf extracts is to add them to your daily routine. Whether in the form of liquid tinctures, capsules, or teas, olive leaf extracts offer many wellness incentives. When choosing a health supplement, always opt for high-quality products made from organic olive leaves that contain key compounds like oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol. In addition to supplementation, incorporating fresh or dried olive leaves into culinary creations can provide a flavorful and nutritious boost. Infuse olive-leaf tea, sprinkle chopped leaves over salads, or throw them into soups for an added dose of flavor. However, always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider before adding any supplementation to your diet.
References:
Olive leaf extract supplementation improves the vascular and metabolic alterations associated with aging, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8046982/#
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3779014/
