The olive tree is a very famous tree, especially for its delicious fruits. Who doesn’t like olives? Now, did you know that olive leaves can be infused? Of course, yes: the infusion of olive leaves offers many benefits for the body.
Grab a pen and paper and take notes. Below we will analyze all the uses of olive leaf infusion and we will tell you whether or not they have scientific endorsement.
The olive
This tree receives the scientific name of Olea europaea, although we all call it an olive tree and, in some countries, it is even known as an olive tree, in honor of its tasty fruits.
It is an evergreen tree from the Mediterranean area that can reach 15 meters in height. It stands out for its wide and twisted grayish trunk, crowned by a cup of lanceolate and slightly pointed leaves.
During spring, the olive tree is filled with white flowers with a greenish touch that grow in clusters. Its fruits are called olives, although they are known daily as olives. With these the famous and irreplaceable olive oil is produced.
Health properties of olive leaf infusion
One of the main components present in olive leaves is oleuropein, a compound that different studies, both in vitro and in vivo, have corroborated as having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and beneficial properties for the immune system.
Let’s see, next, what it is good to drink infusion of olive leaves. You’ll be surprised!
Antioxidant properties
As we have pointed out in different articles, antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals, compounds that produce oxidative damage and can trigger all kinds of degenerative diseases that range from cardiovascular diseases to Alzheimer’s and cancer.
Research confirmed the antioxidant properties of olive leaves. For this reason, it is advisable to take an infusion of olive leaves. It is rich and protects the body!
Protect the heart
Antioxidants have benefits for the heart but, in addition, olive leaves have vasodilator components that prevent the formation of thrombi. On the other hand, oleuropein regulates blood pressure and acts on cholesterol, two of the major risk markers for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems.
Keeps blood sugar under control
A 2011 review concluded that olive leaf extract improves insulin secretion. This makes it possible to reduce hyperglycemia, as well as excess insulin in the blood. In fact, those who took tablets of this extract lowered their average blood sugar and fasting insulin levels.
In this way, drinking olive leaf infusion could help control blood sugar levels. Remember that by infusing the leaves, their essential oils are extracted.
Fight inflammation
We mentioned it at the beginning of this section: oleuropein has an anti-inflammatory effect that would make the infusion of olive leaves an ally to combat all kinds of aches and pains, from those caused by exercise to those caused by diseases such as arthritis or osteoarthritis.
Strengthening of the immune system
What would you tell us if we assured you that drinking olive leaf infusion can strengthen your defenses? The components of olive leaves, with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers, are ideal for protecting the body throughout the year, especially during changes in season and temperature to avoid colds.
Prevention of neurological diseases
The polyphenols present in olive leaves act on the brain and would protect it from degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s according to some studies.
Laxative effect
Those who suffer from occasional or regular constipation can try to remedy it by drinking a cup of olive leaf infusion every day. Its laxative property loosens the stool and allows it to be evacuated without pain.
Ally in weight loss
The infusion of olive leaves can be your best ally when it comes to losing those extra kilos that bother you so much. Its slimming action has been studied by different investigations. Of course, it is not a magical solution but rather it accompanies the diet to lose weight and regular physical exercise.
Energy
Drinking this infusion can help you recover the energy that you lack due to stress, depression or the pressures of everyday life.
Bone protection
Oleuropein is believed to act on the bones by stimulating the production of bone cells. This would be of particular interest to women approaching menopause as drinking this infusion could prevent the onset of osteoporosis.
Cancer prevention
The antioxidants, also present in this infusion, have been analyzed for their anti-cancer properties in many studies. Some data shows the effects of these to prevent the proliferation of cancer cells. More studies in this regard are necessary.
How to prepare an infusion of olive leaves
Preparing this infusion is very, very easy. In fact, if you have an olive tree close to home, you can collect its leaves and use them in its preparation. If not, you can get olive leaves at your trusted herbalist.
Ingredients
- 15g olive leaves
- 1/2 liter of water
Elaboration
- Boil the water.
- Add the olive leaves.
- Let cook for three minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let stand 7 minutes.
- Strain and sweeten with honey if desired.
Note: remember to make the infusion in a large kettle or saucepan since the leaves need space for the water to extract their essential oils from them.
Have we convinced you to try the olive leaf infusion? Do not hesitate: it may be what you need to take care of your body from the inside out.