For many years the peoples of the Mediterranean have used fresh olive leaves for their healing properties. The earliest known use of fresh olive leaves for medicinal purposes appears to come from the ancient Egyptians. Olive Leaf Extract acts to prevent the onset of colds, flu, and a range of viruses, yeast, fungal and mould problems, bacterial infections, and parasites. It has even been found as an effective treatment and preventive for malaria.
How does it work?
Olive leaf is naturally rich in the nutrients selenium, zinc, iron, vitamin C and beta-carotene. These nutrients are important for the healthy functioning of the immune system and are important for good health. Olive leaf contains a broad spectrum of strong antioxidants. A number of olive leaf’s active constituents have demonstrated a high degree of antioxidant activity. Antioxidants act as ‘free-radical scavengers’. Research suggests that an accumulation of free radicals can result in cellular damage.
One active constituent in olive leaf extract, oleuropein, has powerful healing properties that fight the bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that cause infection and disease. The anti-viral activity of Olive Leaf Extract is due to the action of Oleuropein on the protein coat of the virus. It is thought to inactivate micro-organisms by dissolving the outer lining of the microbe and is able to penetrate infected cells. The synergistic structure of anti-oxidant polyphenols, esters, flavonoids, and multiple iridoids work together to weaken disease causing organisms and interfere with the ability of a virus to assemble at the cell membrane. Olive Leaf Extract also helps to build the immune system by stimulating phagocyte production which enables immune cells to destroy microbes.
Features & Benefits
• Traditionally used for the relief of the symptoms of coughs, colds, flu and sore throats, and to help reduce fevers
• Helps to maintain a healthy heart and cardiovascular system.
• Helps to maintain normal blood pressure
• Easy to swallow liquid
• Suitable for children over 2 years
The polyphenolic antioxidants in fresh olive leaf extract are being researched for a broad spectrum of functions. This includes lowering blood pressure, anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic activities. They also show anti-microbial activity against a variety of viruses, bacteria and yeasts.
The cardiovascular benefits of Olive Oil are of course well known, but Olive Leaf Extract itself has been shown to lower cholesterol and benefit the heart and arteries due to its powerful anti-oxidant qualities. Southern Cross University found that the anti-oxidant activity of Olive Leaf Extract, was more powerful than green tea, and vitamins C and E.
Extensive research shows that Olive Leaf Extract has no toxic or other adverse side effects, even in very high doses; it is a natural, non-toxic immune system builder, and a safe, highly effective food supplement with potent and proven anti-microbial action.
The Medical Sanctuary Holistic Medical Centre