And more recently the focus has turned to another part of the olive tree: the olive leaf. The leaf of the olive tree contains a healthy amount of oleuropein (the same beneficial compound found in olive oil). In fact, “olive leaves are the richest source of olive phenolic compounds,” says Kimberly Glenn, M.S., RDN, L.D.. Since you don’t actually want to eat the leaves of the olive tree, these compounds are typically extracted to make it more friendly to consume. Research is starting to suggest that olive leaf extract may have a number of different health benefits. Here are five encouraging findings to know about, plus how to use olive leaf extract. However, it should also be noted that it may exacerbate low blood pressure in people whose blood pressure is already lower than average, and it could also interfere with other medicines for lowering blood pressure. Always consult your doctor before adding anything new to your system. RELATED: 10 Top Heart-Healthy Foods You’ll Love Eating Eating plans like the Mediterranean diet have often been touted as something to follow to protect against neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s. “Test tube and animal studies show the anti-inflammatory properties in olive leaf extract could play a role in protecting the brain from Alzheimer’s,” says Wiesenthal, referring to this study, but adds that “more research needs to be done on humans.” Similar impacts have been seen for Parkinson’s disease as well. However, Wiesenthal recommends keeping olive oil in your kitchen for cooking and eating, preferring to up the oleuropein intake that way instead of starting to cook with olive leaf extract. Glenn adds that “dosage can be tricky,” since this is technically a dietary supplement that is not regulated by the FDA. She also notes that too much may have negative side effects like upset stomach, diarrhea, and dizziness. Like with anything new, make sure to consult your doctor as the extract can impact some prescription drugs.
