Many people are interested in what is olive leaf extract because of its potential health benefits. Olive leaf extract has been used in traditional medicine to treat fevers, infections, and skin conditions like warts, boils, and rashes. Today, it is usually taken as a tea or dietary supplement in liquid or capsule form.
Olive leaf extract contains oleuropein, a bitter substance with antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. However, not all people respond positively to oleuropein. It is important to understand what is olive leaf extract if you are planning to take it as a supplement. This article explains what is olive leaf extract, its medicinal uses, and some tips on proper use.
1. What is olive leaf extract$%:
Olive leaf extract can be obtained by steeping over water to extract the juices. When used in supplements, olive leaf extract is processed into a fine, brownish yellow powder. Olive leaf extract supplements contain 15% to 20% oleuropein, and usually varying amounts of esters, rutin, luteonin, apigenin, and multiple iridoids.
2. What are its benefits$%:
Olive leaf extract is an antioxidant - it destroys free radicals that cause cell damage and impair the immune system. It also attacks bad bacteria without damaging the good ones, reducing the risk of side effects. It is also ideal for viral diseases like colds, flu, and cold sores. Olive leaf extract can also treat eye, ear, nose, and throat infections, pink eye, impetigo, and parasite infections.
Studies show that olive leaf extract can reduce low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or bad cholesterol. LDL is one of the major causes of stroke and heart disease. Olive leaf extract also lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow to reduce other cardiovascular risk factors.
3. How safe is it$%:
Olive leaf extract can reduce blood pressure and glucose to unsafe levels. It should not be used with drugs that lower blood pressure and insulin medications. Diabetics and pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before taking olive leaf extract. Your doctor can further explain what is olive leaf extract and whether it is safe for you.
IMPORTANT: Some olive leaf extract supplements may contain additives that can be harmful to your health, such as sugar, gluten, starch, and silica. To avoid such products, look for those that are GMP-compliant and do not contain any artificial flavors or colors. This ensures that the product passes strict quality standards and has no harmful ingredients.