Olive Leaf

The benefits of olive leaf extract have been widely known throughout the Mediterranean for many years. There, olive leaf extract is derived from the Olive tree. It is believed to act as a natural defense against such problems as bacteria and even insects and parasites.

Traditionally, olive leaf has also been used in the Egyptian mummification process. Other medicinal purposes for olive leaf extract have traditionally included the treatment of fevers. Studies have further found that persons who live in the Mediterranean and consumer large amounts of olives and olive derived products traditionally have less incidences of heart disease and even certain cancers.

There are substantial amounts of fatty acids contained with olives, which is believed to contribute to the health benefits associated with reduced heart disease and cancer risk. Bad cholesterol levels are believed to be reduced by monounsaturated fatty acids. These fatty acids are also thought to be capable of actually shielding the heart from the buildup of plaque, believed to contribute to heart disease.

The ability of olive leaf extract to kill bacteria and retard the effects of certain kinds of viruses has also been discovered. While olive leaf extract has historically been used to increase the body’s immune system; it has also been used to lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels while simultaneously raising energy levels.

Surprisingly, one of the side effects associated with the use of olive leaf extract is actually derived from one its benefits. Olive leaf extract tends to act as a cleanser throughout the body and it can also produce detoxification as the body rids itself of unwanted particles. This process can result in symptoms associated with the flue such as diarrhea, body aches, lethargy, fatigue and headaches. This is usually only temporary and there are no known long term side effects related to the use of olive leaf.

Olives do tend to be rather high in sodium due to the way in which they are processed, so this should be noted by persons who are on a restricted sodium diet due to health concerns. Olive leaf extract; however can be a good choice for these individuals who would like to obtain the benefits related to this product without ingesting the additional sodium associated with processed olives.

The main ingredient in olives which provides most of the associated health benefits is oleuropein; contained in the olive leaf. Consumers should look for products that contain higher amounts of oleuropein in order to obtain the maximum health benefits.

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