Properties of olive leaves
Olives are the most popular product from the olive tree, but did you know that olive leaves have a great number of health benefits?
At Olivarte, we want to share the properties of olive leaves with you so that you can start enjoying them, whether in the form of an infusion or capsules, which are the usual ways to consume this leaf.
A remedy used since Ancient Greece, keep reading and discover the benefits of olive leaves for your health that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Characteristics of olive leaves you should know about
Before diving into their beneficial properties, it’s important to know the main characteristics of olive leaves, which are hard, pointed, and typically about 6 cm long and 2 cm wide, although their dimensions may vary slightly.
With a short petiole, the edges of olive leaves curl due to drying out, and they have a whitish color on the underside and a bright green color on the upper side.
Additionally, it’s important to note that there are three types of olive leaves, mainly differentiated by size:
- Lanceolate leaf: over 6 cm.
- Elliptical-lanceolate leaf: between 4 and 6 cm.
- Elliptical leaf: under 4 cm.
Properties and benefits of olive leaves
Now that we know their main characteristics, let’s talk about the most notable benefits of olive leaves, which will undoubtedly make you want to include them in your daily diet.
Improves cardiovascular health
Olive leaves improve cardiovascular health, which is one of their most highlighted qualities. By reducing triglyceride levels, they can help lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol, while also preventing the formation of blood clots due to their vasodilatory effect.
Moreover, they have anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effects, which reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and they promote amino acid production, protecting blood vessels and increasing nitric oxide production.
Helps control diabetes
These leaves contain oleuropein, a substance that helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it very beneficial for people with type II diabetes.
A phenolic compound present in olive leaves and fruit, one way to enjoy the properties of oleuropein is through extra virgin olive oil, a product that, in addition to being delicious, is highly beneficial for health due to its high content of oleic acid and natural antioxidants, especially when consumed raw.
Anti-inflammatory properties
One of the main properties of olive leaves is that they are anti-inflammatory, thanks to oleuropein, which blocks an enzyme that contributes to the accumulation of uric acid, reducing both discomfort and pain.
Boosts the immune system
Olive leaves boost the immune system, helping to keep defenses active against bacteria, parasites, fungi, viruses, and other pathogens, reducing the risk of colds or flu.
This is because the leaves have antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiseptic, and antifungal properties, making them an excellent natural remedy to protect our bodies and maintain our health.
Diuretic effect
Additionally, they also have a diuretic effect, and their consumption increases urine production, which is key to eliminating impurities from the body and, therefore, preventing the formation of gallstones.
By increasing urine production, they also help control weight, promoting weight loss and reducing adipose tissue, making them highly recommended for people who are overweight or obese, or simply want to maintain their figure.
Does olive leaf have any contraindications?
Despite its beneficial properties, the consumption of olive leaves in infusion or capsules may have certain contraindications for some people, who should avoid consuming them or do so only occasionally.
For example, it is not recommended for people with low blood pressure, nor for those who tend to feel fatigued, as we’ve mentioned, olive leaves lower blood pressure.
On the other hand, they are also not recommended if you often suffer from gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or heavy digestion, as they have laxative properties.
And, of course, you should not consume these leaves if you are allergic to olives, as this could result in a dangerous allergic reaction.
As we’ve mentioned, the most common way to consume olive leaves is in an infusion. To do so, simply wash the leaves well, heat some water, and when it starts to boil, add two or three olive leaves depending on your preferred intensity. Let it steep for 10/15 minutes and enjoy.