7 benefits of olive leaf extract

Olive leaf extract can help lower cholesterol levels and has a positive effect on the immune system. These are just a few examples of the power of olive leaf extract. We already know that olives and olive oil are healthy. Olive leaf extract is extracted from the leaves of the olive tree and contains greater amounts of oleuropein than olive oil. This is a powerful antioxidant that scientists consider to be the most important component in the health benefits of olives. Good news; you can easily ingest olive leaf extract in a drink.

Oleuropein, the secret antioxidant of the olive tree

The olive tree has stood as a symbol of beauty and longevity for centuries. Olives and olive oil are staples in Mediterranean cuisine, which is prized for its healthy dishes.

According to scientists, the substance that is the most important factor responsible for all the health benefits of olives and olive oil is called oleuropein. It provides the typical bitter olive taste and is a strong natural antioxidant.

Antioxidants are sorely needed to support our bodies against free radicals. These are molecules that we ingest through pollution, stress and an unhealthy diet. They cause damage to body cells, resulting in all kinds of ailments, discomfort and disease. A varied diet with lots of fruit and vegetables supplies the antioxidants our bodies need. Although sometimes broccoli, white grapes and a few nuts are just not enough.

Oleuropein is a real free radical fighter. It is one of the polyphenols, along with hydroxytyrosol, elenolic acid and rutin, that can help lower bad cholesterol and high blood pressure levels.

Olive oil and olive leaf extract are not the same thing

Oleuropein is found in the fruits and leaves of the olive tree. It is also found in olive oil, but in much lower concentrations. Olive oil is pressed from olives, which are usually first treated with lye. In any event, some oleuropein is lost with each treatment.

Olive leaf extract is extracted from the olive leaves in a very controlled way. This yields a pure extract which contains a wealth of oleuropein. If you want to know if an olive leaf extract is any good, you should check the percentage of oleuropein it contains.

Olive leaf extract helps to lower cholesterol and to lose weight

Olive leaf extract can offer you a good dose of antioxidants whenever you are in need of a vitality boost. In southern countries, olive leaf extract is almost taken for granted as a supplement for preventing ailments. The uses of olive leaf extract are many and varied. Several international studies have already shown the following benefits:

1. Olive leaf extract helps lower cholesterol levels.

2. Oleuropein stimulates the natural functioning of the immune system in several ways. During the flu season, the antiviral properties of olive leaf extract offer protection against upper respiratory infections. It is generally a very effective remedy for the common cold. 

Oleuropein has more antioxidant potency than vitamin C and it's also stronger than superfoods, such as goji berries, mangosteen and acai berries.

3. Several studies have shown that olive leaf extract has a beneficial effect on elevated blood pressure levels. This is due to the unique combination of antioxidants in olive leaf extract with oleuropein as the main component.

4. It supports the proper functioning of the heart and blood vessels. 

5. Stimulates metabolism and weight loss even more than drinking green tea does. 

6. It is good for the care of inner and outer skin. The many antioxidants in olive leaf extract help get rid of waste products and target free radicals that can damage body cells. 

7. In diabetes, the body has a hard time maintaining proper glucose levels. Oleuropein has properties that support normal blood sugar levels. 

How do you use olive leaf extract?

Olive leaf is sold as tea or loose leaves. It's even easier to take as a capsule or in liquid form. MyVitaly added calendula flowers to its olive leaf extract and orange and citrus essential oils for flavour. This is a bit like taking a sunny citrus shot that you enjoy with your breakfast.