There are many scientific studies on olive leaf. According to these studies, olive leaf can play an effective role in protecting against and treating diseases as a natural herbal antibiotic and antioxidant. Scientific studies have recorded that its active components "oleuropein" and "eleonic acid" act as antimicrobial agents. These compounds, whose effects resemble those of garlic and onion, slow down microbes entering the body until the immune system responds. Although its use is more common in Mediterranean countries, its recent adoption as a herbal medicine in many countries has accelerated research.

It has fever-reducing and anti-arteriosclerotic properties. It is a very useful herbal source for some colds and flus that cannot be treated with antibiotics. It lowers blood pressure and blood cholesterol. It may help with difficult-to-treat viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, chronic fatigue syndrome, and herpes. It is also valuable for people with weakened immune systems who need extra support.

Oleuropein, found in all parts of the olive tree, is removed during the processing of olives. However, oleuropein is the main active ingredient that provides the tree's resistance to disease and pests. The "elenolic acid" in its content and its derivative "calcium elenolate" have the property of repelling a wide variety of microorganisms.

Antimicrobial Effect

When olive leaf is consumed as tea, the oleuropein taken into the body is converted into elenolic acid by two enzymes. Elenolic acid has a high antimicrobial effect; it disrupts the cell wall of bacteria and strengthens the natural immune system.

Antioxidant Effect

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals that form in the body as a result of chemical reactions or come from external sources such as smoking, alcohol, and polluted air. The formation of diseases can be prevented, hormonal balance can be maintained, and the aging process can be delayed. Olive leaf extract has high antioxidant activity; it acts at a level approximately 2.5 times the antioxidant activity of vitamins C and E.

Effect on Coronary Vessels

Studies have shown that oleuropein has a vasodilator effect, lowers blood pressure, and exhibits anti-arrhythmic properties. A decrease in LDL cholesterol levels has also been observed. Laboratory and clinical research has shown that olive leaf tea is also effective on heart failure and vascular blockages.

Blood Sugar Regulating Effect

In research on living organisms, oleuropein has been observed to have a hypoglycemic effect and to lower high blood sugar levels.

Conditions for Which It Is Beneficial

  • Strengthens the immune system; protects against diseases with its antioxidant effect.
  • Lowers blood sugar and blood pressure. (Not recommended for those with low blood pressure or blood sugar.)
  • Lowers cholesterol; helps with weight loss.
  • Protects the skin against aging with its cell-renewing property.
  • Germicidal and immune-boosting during bronchitis and pneumonia.
  • Beneficial for colds and ear infections.
  • Effective for fibromyalgia pains.
  • Beneficial for fungal infections, herpes virus, salmonella, candidiasis, dysentery, and shingles.
  • Protective and therapeutic against Hepatitis A, B, and C; also used in the pharmaceutical industry.
  • Effective in rheumatic diseases and calcification.
  • Beneficial for vaginal discharge and various bacterial infections in women.

Note: Olive leaf extract is considered beneficial; consult your doctor before use.