Oleaceae
Olive Leaf
Olea europaea
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Mediterranean
Also known as: Olive Tree Leaf, Oleaster
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Parts Used
Leaf
Therapeutic Uses
Hypertension (clinical trials — reduces systolic BP by 11mmHg), type 2 diabetes, viral infections (HIV, herpes, influenza — in vitro evidence), immune support. Oleuropein is one of the most potent natural antioxidants.
Herbal Actions
Antiviral, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihypertensive, hypoglycemic, immunomodulator
Active Constituents
Oleuropein (primary active — secoiridoid), hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin), elenolic acid
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🏺 Tincture☕ Herbal Tea
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp dried leaf per 250ml, steep 15 min, 2–3x daily |
| Tincture | 4–6 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 2–3x daily |
| Notes | Standardized extract (20% oleuropein): 500–1000mg 2x daily. For hypertension: 1000mg extract twice daily (clinical dose). Herxheimer reaction possible when starting (die-off from antimicrobial effect). |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Caution with antihypertensives and antidiabetics (additive effects). Avoid with immunosuppressants.
Side Effects: Herxheimer/die-off reactions when starting. GI upset. Headache. Hypotension. Generally well tolerated.