Olive Leaf Extract

Species Name: Olea europaea

Also Known As: OLE and Green olive.

The olive tree is widely cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region.

This evergreen tree or shrub grows to a height of between 26 and 49 feet. The tree trunk has grey bark and is typically twisted and grooved.

The leaves are spear-shaped, grey-green on top and silvery white on the bottom. The olive tree has feathery, white flowers that bloom in small, erect clusters. The oval fruit starts green, ripens to black and has a hard stone in the center.

What is Olive Leaf Extract? Olive leaf extract is made from the mature leaves of the green olive tree. These leaves are gathered in March and April, before the flowers come into bud.

Once the leaves are harvested they are dried, then used to make capsules, liquid extracts and tinctures.

Home Remedies Using Olive Leaf Extract:

Benefits of Olive Leaf Extract:

Historically there is evidence of olive leaf extract being used by the ancient Egyptians who believed it had divine powers and used it in the process of mummification. Mediterranean cultures dating back thousands of years used it because of its health giving properties and was drunk as a tea to help those who are suffering from fever due to illness.

Today olive leaf extract is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and to lower blood sugar and cholesterol. It is recommended in the treatment of HIV and AIDS. Research studies have shown that, "Extracts of the leaf have strong antimicrobial properties as well as potential anti-HIV properties."

The extract can help with viral infections, and to promote urination. Olive leaf is often used to treat chronic fatigue, fungal infections, shingles, recurring urinary tract infections, herpes I and II, as well as for dental infections.

Studies show olive leaf possesses compounds that have a natural ability to inhibit the growth of many types of viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms. It may contain antifungal properties useful in maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms in the intestines. Olive leaf extract is often recommended as a supplementary treatment for Type 2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes.

Olive leaf extracts are often combined with olive oil to create soaps and skin creams for externally application. These soaps and skin creams can be used to treat infections, rashes and fungus.

Side Effects of Olive Leaf Extract:

Because olive leaf extract can lower blood pressure and blood glucose, those already suffering from low blood pressure and low glucose levels should avoid taking Olive leaf. For the same reason there may be dangerous interactions with pharmaceutical drugs intended to lower blood pressure and glucose levels.