The Olea Europaea tree is found, mostly, in the Mediterranean basin, Asia and Africa. It grows approximately 26 – 49 feet tall, has a twisted trunk, small white flowers and silvery-green, oblong shaped leaves. From these leaves, oil is extracted called olive leaf oil. Olive leaf oil has several, healthful, benefits and is used a variety of ways.

Olive leaves are loaded with antioxidants: oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, flavonoids and polyphenols. These antioxidants protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. They are heart healthy, protecting the cardiovascular system. They lower the risk of cancers and boost the immune system.

Olive leaf oil is a non-toxic substance. It lowers bad cholesterol, lowers blood pressure and increases the flow of blood. Research claims that olive leaf oil may help control diabetes. Its antioxidants benefits help lower blood sugar levels. There is still much research required to confirm these results. Olive leaf oil is, especially, potent when used in combination with other antioxidants.

Olive leaves contain the benefits of vitamins and minerals: benefits of vitamin C, beta-carotene, amino acids, zinc, iron, selenium and chromium. Olive leaf oil has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties! This oil can help alleviate many conditions: colds, influenza, pneumonia, sore throat, sinus infections, gum diseases, tooth infections, arthritis inflammation and a large variety of infections caused by bacteria, virus or fungi. It’s commonly used to fight the, hard-to-treat, Epstein-Barr disease.

Skin Care: Olive leaf oil is used in commercial and homemade beauty products: soaps, lotions and creams. It helps mature skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It nourishes skin cells and boosts collagen for increased firmness and suppleness. It fights acne, controlling the spread of bacteria causing blemishes. It helps with acne relief. Commercial or homemade lotion, made with olive leaf oil, soothes and moisturizes skin. It’s helpful for dry flaky skin or eczema. Olive leaf extract is, occasionally, used in combination with olive oil to promote healthful skin care.

Hair Care: Olive leaf oil can be found in shampoos and conditioners, although it’s mostly found in skin care products. It helps to maintain and manage hair, helping dry or frizzy hair.

CAUTION! Olive leaf oil has possible side effects: headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, flu-like symptoms, diarrhea and allergic reactions. This oil can lower blood pressure and lower blood glucose levels. When olive leaf oil is used in combination with pharmaceutical drugs that force lower blood pressure or glucose levels, it can be very dangerous! Although no serious side effects have been reported, use olive leaf oil with caution or after consulting with your health care provider.

Olive leaf oil is available in different forms: powders, capsules, liquid concentrate and as a dried leaf tea. This oil is accessible at stores or on-line. It offers numerous, healthful, benefits and is used a variety of ways!