Olive Leaf Extract
Standardised oleuropein from olive leaves. Modest blood pressure reduction, antiviral / antimicrobial action, and antioxidant support.
Moderate evidence for mild blood pressure reduction (~5–10 mmHg systolic), lipid improvement, antimicrobial action. Effects: 4–12 weeks.
The leaves of the olive tree (Olea europaea) contain oleuropein — a polyphenol with stronger antioxidant activity than the same plant's olive oil. Has antimicrobial action against viruses, bacteria, and fungi (used historically in Mediterranean folk medicine for fever and infection), modest blood pressure reduction, and lipid-improving effects. Useful as immune adjunct and as a milder long-term cardiovascular polyphenol.
- Form
- Olive leaf extract standardised to 15–20% oleuropein.
- Dose
- 500–1,000 mg/day. Higher doses (up to 2,000 mg) for active immune use.
- Timing
- With food. AM common.
- Schedule
- Daily.
- Side effects
- Generally well-tolerated. GI upset, headache. Mild blood-thinning at high doses.
- Interactions
- Antihypertensives — additive BP lowering. Anticoagulants — mild additive. Diabetes medications — additive glucose lowering.
- Contraindications
- Hypotension. Pregnancy / breastfeeding (limited data). Pre-surgery (mild blood-thinning).
- Lab markers
- BP, lipid panel, fasting glucose.
- Food sources
- Olive leaf tea is a Mediterranean traditional preparation. Olive oil contains some of the same polyphenols (in much smaller amounts).
Pairs with
Hawthorn, garlic, magnesium taurate (cardiovascular stack). Vitamin C, elderberry (immune stack).
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