Why Olive Leaf Extract?
The leaves of the olive tree, called Olea Europaea, have been used medicinally in the human diet since Ancient Egyptian times. As its popularity has grown, so have the clinic studies to ascertain its possible health benefits.
Studies have shown that olive leaves contain many potentially bioactive compounds that have antioxidant, antihypertensive, antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, hypo-cholesterolemic and hypoglycemic properties. Oleuropein, one of the primary compounds in olive leaf, has attracted attention since the early 1900s because of its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Studies have found that oleuropein, which is a polyphenol, is a potent antioxidant that lowers blood pressure naturally and prevents cardiovascular disease.
Studies are also attesting to olive leaf’s powerful medicinal properties; and are displaying it may assist in cardiovascular and immune system support, increasing energy, and promote healthy blood pressure.
CARDIOVASCULAR SUPPORT
The amount of cholesterol in your blood (and specifically the amount of LDL-cholesterol, which is sometimes referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol) helps predict whether your blood vessels are likely to be affected by atherosclerosis (arterial plaque that narrows and stiffens the blood vessels), while your blood pressure is a measure of how much resistance your heart is pushing against when it’s pumping the blood around your body. Studies have shown evidence that olive leaf may help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and normal heart function.
IMMUNE SUPPORT
There are several measures you can take to support your immune system and help reduce your likelihood of being affected by colds and flus. Common sense strategies like practising good personal hygiene, getting plenty of sleep, eating nutritious antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables, and making sure you exercise on a regular basis are a great start. Research suggests that taking olive leaf extract may also help, as olive leaves have traditionally been used to enhance the functioning of the immune system and aid the management of viral infections especially when fever is present.
ANTIOXIDANT POWER
Antioxidants play an essential role in the body as they quench free radicals. By damaging healthy cells, free radicals can leave the body vulnerable to advanced ageing, cardiovascular problems and degenerative diseases. Free radicals cause oxidation in the body, which is why antioxidants, like Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Olive Leaf Extract, play a major role in fighting free radicals.
Australian olive leaf extract gained international attention when it was shown to have an antioxidant capacity almost double green tea extract and 400% higher than the equivalent amount of Vitamin C. In addition, research conducted at Australia’s Southern Cross University (SCU) has
identified olive leaf as the most powerful, free radical-scavenging antioxidant of 55 medicinal herbs.
Please note: This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Results may vary from individual to individual.
