The olive tree is an incredibly versatile and valuable plant, offering a wide range of benefits beyond just the iconic olives they produce. From health and nutrition to environmental contributions and cultural significance, olive trees provide a bounty of resources. With its numerous health-promoting properties, perhaps the most underrated of these resources is olive leaf extract.
The Olive Tree in Ancient History
Olive trees have been used for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece where it was valued for its symbolic connection to peace and strength. The origin of the phrase “to extend an olive branch,” meaning to make an offer of peace, is often associated with the Greek goddess Athena giving an olive branch to the city of Athens as a bid to become their patron. At ancient Olympic games, winners were given olive wreath crowns as a symbol of strength and victory.
What is the secret behind olive leaf extract’s many health benefits?
Derived from the leaves of the Olea europaea tree, olive leaf extract contains a range of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols and flavonoids. The leaves also contain high amounts of oleuropein — the active nutrient responsible for many of its beneficial health-promoting effects. Here are 5 areas in which olive leaf extract has shown wellness benefits.
- Boosts Immunity: Best known for its immune-boosting abilities, olive leaf extract offers unique antimicrobial and antiviral benefits to humans. That is because olive trees and humans share common environmental antagonists, including bacteria, fungi, parasites and insects, yet olive trees have developed different strategies to defend themselves against these antagonists. When humans ingest the olive plant, they are able to harness the benefits of these natural defense properties since the bioactive compounds are passed through to them. As such, olive leaf extract can help protect the body from harmful bacteria, as well as enhance the immune system’s ability to fight off invaders.
- Antioxidant Power and Healthy Aging: Rich in antioxidants, olive leaf extract helps neutralize harmful free radicals and protects the body from oxidative stress. As a result, it promotes overall healthy aging.
- Supports Heart Health: Olive leaf extract has shown promise in promoting cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy blood pressure and blood circulation. Oleuropein has also been shown to help relax and widen blood vessels, improving blood flow. Additionally, it may help maintain healthy levels of LDL cholesterol.
- Inflammation Modulation: Chronic inflammation is linked to a variety of health concerns. Olive leaf extract supports a healthy inflammatory response throughout the body, helping to alleviate challenges associated with these concerns.
- Helps Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies have shown that olive leaf extract may help support healthy glucose levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
A Final Word
While other parts of the olive tree typically get most of the attention, olive leaves offer unique health benefits, providing an all-natural complement to many wellness routines. As with any supplement, it is advisable to consult a health practitioner before beginning to incorporate olive leaf extract into a health regimen.
References
OMAR SH. Oleuropein in Olive and its Pharmacological Effects. Scientia Pharmaceutica. 2010; 78(2):133-154.