Olive Leaf Tea

Olive leaves have been used for medicinal properties for generations, however, until recently, the utility of this age-old herb had lost its relevance, once its fruit began to receive priority. What is magical about this tree is that its every bit can be used for something or the other.

While olives are exceptionally nutritious, the leaves have been scientifically tested and have been proven to contain antibiotic, immuunostimulation as well as anti-aging properties. Fortunately, herbal manufacturers have begun to commercially sell olive leaf tea and other products in the market.

The leaves are handpicked, washed, dried and then treated so as to help them remain preserved to retain the natural essential oils.

• It is proven to have a drastic effect on cholesterol levels and helps reduce or lower bad cholesterol (LDL) to a large extent, when consumed on a regular basis.
• It also helps reduce blood pressure, which; if allowed to rise extensively, can have fatal consequences on the heart as well as the brain.

• The leaves have antifungal as well as antibacterial properties, which helps to cure stomach ailments, it helps reduce acidity, diarrhea, and prevents worms in the system.

• It is rich in antioxidants, which is why drinking this tea can help clear up the skin and make it less susceptible to acne or wrinkles. However, the extracts of the leaf in the form of an ointment would probably show better results on the skin.

• It creates immunity against common cold, cough, and sore throat as the antibiotic properties of the leaf, helps kill this viral infection.
• Drinking tea has also had minor and slow progress in controlling the spread of viral herpes and cold sores to an extent. However, topical application of the leaf-oil has shown far greater results for many.

• It strengthens the immune system by releasing free radicals or antioxidants which fight against pathogens.
• It also helps reduce inflammation, which is why it's excellent for stomach ulcers and sore throats.

You will be able to find packaged herbal olive leaf tea in the market. Do not buy tea bags as these are not as effective as the actual tea leaves. Once you have the tea leaves, boil it in water. Let the water come to a complete boil, after which you may use a sieve to extract the leaves.

Now you may either drink the tea without any added sugar, or you may add some honey and lemon drops to the tea to make it more palatable. Olive leaf is believed to have a delicious flavor and an exotic aroma, so go ahead and enjoy your herbal tea.

The disadvantage of using tea bags is that these tend to dry up and retain humidity. It also causes the essential oils to evaporate, which completely defeats the purpose of having the olive leaf tea. This is why tea bags must not be used and you must make it a point to use only tea leaves instead.

It is believed that people who have diabetes, low blood pressure, or hypertension must not have the tea made from olive leaves. It would, nonetheless, be safer to seek the advice of your doctor before you go ahead and try this tea.

Be sure to mention any specific health conditions which you may be suffering from, so that your doctor can correlate the effects of the tea with the condition and let you know if it's safe for you to have the tea or not.