The Queen of the Mediterranean, Olive Trees are iconic to that region and are an important food source. We are all familiar with the benefits of eating Olive Oil, but did you know there are many benefits to be found in the Olive Leaf? Olive leaves contain high amounts of antioxidants, which bind to free radicals in the body, reducing inflammation and helping us heal and prevent numerous ailments. Olive Leaf contains one particular antioxidant in abundance: Oleuropein. Oleuropin is particularly anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-microbial.
These constituents work wonderfully with our bodies, especially in regards to the Cardiac system, the Digestive System, as well as upper respiratory infections. Empirical evidence and Scientific studies have shown Olive Leaf to benefit us in the following ways:
-Lowers LDL Cholesterol
- Eases heart Palpitations from Arrhythmia (consult with your doctor if already taking medication)
- Decreases High Blood Pressure
-Stabilizes Blood Sugar
-Reduces Insulin Resistance
-Reduces the severity of Upper Respiratory Infections
-Aids the body in fighting off viruses such as influenza, herpes, mononucleosis, and Rotavirus.
-Topically, can quicken healing of herpes sores
-Lowers risk of chronic inflammatory disease such as Cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Heart Disease
- Manages appetite and over-eating, as well as decrease fat storage
Olive Leaf is truly a medicinal ally! You can try Olive Leaf as an extract (tincture) or drink the dried leaves as a tea. The leaves are quite bitter, so a tincture may be easier to administer. To address or prevent chronic issues, consistent use over many weeks is best. To address an acute issue, a dropperful of the tincture can be taken every hour, or until symptoms improve.
Folks with kidney disease or who are taking medication to lower blood pressure or blood sugar should consult with their physician before taking large amounts of Olive Leaf preparations. Some people may have an allergy to the pollen of the Olive tree. A simple patch test can be performed by placing some of the tincture or tea onto the inner arm and waiting 15 minutes.
Plants are so giving with their medicine, and the Olive Tree is no exception. What a generous world we live in!
--Susan Marie for Moonrise Herbs
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-olive-leaf-extract
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-olive-leaf-extract-89489