The leaves of the olive tree have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times and research suggests that olive leaf extracts have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. There is also evidence that the extracts could lower blood pressure.
A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research looked at 20 sets of identical twins with “borderline” hypertension — blood pressure that is above the optimal level of 120/80, but below the cutoff of 140/90 used to diagnose high blood pressure. One member of each twin pair was given tablets containing olive leaf extract, while the other received no supplements but did get lifestyle advice on lowering blood pressure.
After eight weeks, supplement users who took 1,000 mg of olive leaf extract on a daily basis showed a substantial dip in their blood pressure overall — from an average of 137/80 to 126/76. Their “bad” LDL cholesterol level also dropped. The twins who received no supplements showed no significant change in their blood pressure and a smaller improvement in cholesterol.
Source: Reuters, 3 September 2008
Chapter: Hypertension :: 8 October 2008
