The benefits of olive leaf extract and other forms of the herb are just becoming known, although ancient civilizations were aware of its varied uses. A number of parts of the olive tree can be used medicinally, and the Egyptians used it for preservation.
Benefits of olive leaf extract include:
- Helping to lower blood pressure and increase blood flow. The antioxidant properties of the herb can help to protect the circulation and the heart from damage caused by toxins. It can help to lower cholesterol levels.
- Olive leaf oil and other supplements are beneficial for helping to fight infections and viruses. It is thought to be able to prevent infections from growing. The herb has antibacterial and antifungal properties which can help with this. Infections such as athlete’s foot and conjunctivitis can be eased by the use of olive leaf extract.
- Infections of the urinary tract and bladder can be eased with the use of olive leaf liquid extract.
- An olive leaf supplement can help with yeast infections such as candida.
- Sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome can have their symptoms eased with the use of olive leaf extract, as the herb can help to boost energy levels. Similar conditions such as Epstein-Barr syndrome can also benefit from using the herb.
- Other olive leaf benefits include its natural detoxifying effects, which promotes the expulsion of toxins from the body, increasing overall health and wellness.
- The herb has an anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effect, which can help to soothe digestive disorders and muscle problems.
- Olive leaf extract benefits also include the fighting of colds and flu, particularly when the sufferer’s immune system is weak due to stress.
- Skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema may benefit from the use of an olive leaf supplement.
- Research is under way to determine the benefits of olive leaf extract for sufferers of AIDS, who are prone to illness and infection due to reduced immune function.
Olive Leaf Extract Dosage
Olive leaf capsules are readily available, and the usual dose is to take one or two a day. This should not be exceeded, as this could cause detoxification to occur much more quickly and increase the symptoms.
The herb is available as olive leaf oil, tincture, capsule, or powder, but the fresh organic olive leaf extract is increasing in popularity.
Olive Leaf Side Effects
The detoxifying properties of the herb can lead to headaches, diarrhea, skin rashes, and symptoms similar to flu, but this is a sign that it is working and the body is adjusting to lower levels of toxins.
These side effects can be eased by increasing water intake. The herb is generally considered to be safe if the recommended dosages are adhered to.
Pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding should always consult a medical professional before commencing a course of treatment with an olive leaf supplement.
Its ability to lower blood pressure means that those on medication for blood pressure should check with their doctor before taking the herb. Diabetes sufferers should also seek medical advice, as olive leaf may lower blood sugar levels.
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