Olive Leaf
Other Names: Oleae europaea, Oleae folium, Olivier
Should I take it?
Trees that produce olives are thought to have originated in the areas around the Mediterranean Sea. Now growing wild and cultivated in orchards throughout Mediterranean countries, they are also found in warm parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. Generally, cultivated olive trees are kept relatively small so that the ripe fruits can be harvested easily. They have clusters of white or yellow flowers and small narrow leaves that stay green all year. Traditionally the symbol of peace, olive branches were woven into garlands and worn by ancient Greek and Roman leaders. They were also awarded to athletes at the original Olympic games. Today, they are represented on Olympic medals, currency, and many flags--including the flag of the United Nations.
For medicinal use, olive leaves may be gathered at any time of the year. Typically, they are dried and used to make a tea or processed into extracts. At various times since the residents of a Mediterranean island named Crete are known to have been using olive leaf as medicine about 5,000 years ago, it has been used to treat a number of chronic and infective illnesses.
Dosage and Administration
Olive leaf is most often sold as capsules or liquid extracts. A typical dose is 400 mg four times a day, but dosing recommendations vary considerably. Individuals who use an olive leaf product should follow the directions on the package that is purchased.
Olive leaf tea may be made by soaking about 2 teaspoons of dried olive leaf in about 6 ounces of boiling water for 30 minutes. After the solid parts are strained out, olive leaf tea may be taken up to four times a day. Because it has a bitter taste, olive leaf tea may be sweetened of flavored with other herbals.
Summary
The major current uses of olive leaf are to lower high blood pressure and high blood sugar, although neither of these effects has been proven through well-controlled studies.
Risks
Pregnant and breast-feeding women are advised to avoid taking olive leaf because not enough is known about its possible effects.
Side Effects
Taking olive leaf may result in hypoglycemia or hypotension.
Interactions
Olive leaf may enhance the effects of drugs that lower blood pressure. It may also increase blood-sugar lowering effects of drugs or herbals.
Last Revised September 7, 2007
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Should I take it? 
