Benefits: 1. Anti-ageing 2. Arthritis 3. Bacteria and fungi eliminate 4. Blood pressure lowers 5. Brain function improvement 6. Cardiovascular health 7. Cancer risk reduction 8. Diabetes (aids in reducing blood sugar levels) 9. Immune system booster 10. Skin protection
Further benefits:
What Is Olive Leaf Extract?
Olive leaf extract comes from the leaves of the olive tree, called Olea europaea. Researchers believe that the olive tree had its origin approximately 6,000–7,000 years ago in the region corresponding to ancient Persia and Mesopotamia.
Oleuropein, one of the primary compounds in olive leaf, has attracted attention since the early 1900s because of its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Studies have found that oleuropein, which is a polyphenol, is a potent antioxidant that helps to lower blood pressure naturally and prevent cardiovascular disease. Oleuropein also displayed anti-cancer functions when it made tumours in animals regress or disappear.
Possible Olive Leaf Extract Side Effects and Interactions
When olive leaf is used in appropriate amounts, it is generally safe. However, on occasion, olive leaf extract may cause dizziness in people who have low blood pressure because it can lower it even further.
Olive leaf may also cause stomach irritations, especially if the dose is too high or the olive leaf tea is too strong. If that happens, dilute the extract with a carrier oil like coconut oil, or add extra water to the tea. Some other side effects may include diarrhoea, acid reflux, headache, stomach pain and heartburn.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take olive leaf extract unless it is under the guidance of your physician. There is not enough research to prove that it is safe under these circumstances.
Do not take olive leaf with blood pressure medications since it lowers blood pressure.
Olive leaf extract demonstrates hypoglycaemic and anti-diabetic properties, so if you are on diabetic medication, start with small doses under the guidance of your healthcare professional to ensure that you will not have a reaction. It’s a good idea to speak to your physician beforehand, especially if you have diabetes and are trying olive leaf for the first time.
Olive leaf extract may increase the effect of blood thinners, such as Warfarin. This is because olive leaf may prevent blood platelets from sticking together. If you are taking Warfarin or other blood thinners, check with your physician before taking olive leaf extract.
And if you are undergoing chemotherapy treatment, speak to your healthcare professional before using olive leaf, as it may interfere with some chemotherapy drugs.