Olive leaf extract benefits have been recognized since the ancient times. Here are a few benefits of olive leaf extract or OLE, to get motivated to live a healthy lifestyle.
The benefits of olive leaf extracts were first recognized by the Ancient Egyptians. Olive leaf or the leaf of the olive tree, whose botanical name is Olea europaea has an intriguing history.
The Greeks believe, that the olive tree was created by Goddess Athena to cure illnesses, lighten the darkness, heal wounds, and provide nourishment. In an interesting record, this extract was once used to cure malaria.
The leaf, in its natural form contains oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol polyphenols, and flavonoids, which are brilliant antioxidants. These components of olive oil are also responsible for the characteristic aroma of the oil.
Strengthening Immune System
Olive leaf has powerful antioxidants, which helps in boosting the immune system. This helps in proper functioning of the immune system in the body, keeping the illnesses at bay. It prevents the free radicals and harmful bacteria from damaging the cells.
Diabetes
The statistics show that about 7.8% of the population in the United States of America have diabetes, and the number is only likely to increase. Recent studies show that benefits of olive leaf extend to controlling diabetes too.
Phytochemical antioxidants in the olive oil extract are known to lower blood sugar levels. This not only helps in keeping the sugar levels of a diabetic person in control, but also prevents the lifestyle disease in case of normal people who make this oil a part of their daily diet.
Cancer
Olive oil extracts are being tested for combating cancers. Certain compounds like, flavonoids, oleanolic acid, and phenols, in the olive leaf are known to fight the free radicals which damage cells and lead to auto immune diseases and tumors.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Olive leaf extract prevents oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which brings about healthy functioning of the heart. The oxidation of LDL leads to accumulation of bad cholesterol, which can severely damage the walls of the arteries. Thus, making this extract a part of your diet can go a long way in keeping your heart, hale and hearty!
Antimicrobial Nature
A latest study shows that this extract has the ability to fight the micro-organisms that cause diseases. Calcium elenolate, is another compound which gives olive leaf its antibacterial and antiviral properties. These compounds fight the viruses and prevent the disease from spreading further.
Other Olive Leaf Benefits
Olive leaf helps treat many viral and bacterial infections. Common cold, influenza, herpes, body ache, muscle pain, fatigue, flu symptoms, fever, diarrhea, and colon cancer can be combated with this leaf extract.
No specific side effects have been recorded from the use of this extract. The use of olive leaf extract benefits those who suffer from cardiovascular diseases. Lowering blood pressure, hypertension, and other diseases can be prevented by making regular use of this extract.
Healing powers of olive leaf have been known since, what seems like forever. It's time you try it for better. Take care!