Olive Leaf
Olea europaea
橄榄叶
Pinyin: Gǎn Lǎn Yè
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Part Used
Leaf
Origin
Mediterranean region, Middle East; cultivated worldwide
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Olive leaf is the leaf of the olive tree, best known for its fruit (olives) and oil. The leaves contain powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds that have been used in traditional Mediterranean medicine for thousands of years. Olive leaf extract gained modern attention after research on its antiviral and cardiovascular benefits.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
cool
Flavors (五味)
bitter, astringent
Meridians (归经)
heart, liver, stomach
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Immune support and infections
- Fever and infectious diseases
- Cardiovascular health and blood pressure
- Antioxidant and anti-aging
- Blood sugar regulation
- Wound healing and skin infections (topical)
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Tea, tincture, extract, capsule, powder, topical cream/ointment.
Suggested Dosage
Standardized extract (15–20% oleuropein): 500–1000 mg daily; capsules: 500 mg 2–3x/day; tincture: 2–4 mL 3x/day; tea: 1–2 tsp dried leaf per cup, 2–3x/day. For acute infections: higher doses under practitioner supervision.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Leaves can be harvested year-round, but best in spring and early summer before fruiting. Harvest young, healthy leaves from branches that will be pruned anyway. Dry in shade.
Quality Indicators
Dried leaves: green to gray-green, intact, with characteristic olive scent. Standardized extracts: look for oleuropein content (usually 15–25%). Hydroxytyrosol content is also important. Organic olive leaf from Mediterranean countries is preferred.
Storage
Dried leaves: airtight container in cool dark place, 1–2 years. Extract capsules: follow product expiration (usually 2–3 years). Protect from light and moisture.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data - avoid)Severe kidney or liver disease (high doses - consult practitioner)Low blood pressure (may lower further)Bleeding disorders or upcoming surgeryChildren (insufficient data)Known allergy to olive or plants in the olive family
Possible Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses
- Mild digestive upset (nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain) in high doses
- Headache
- Allergic reaction (rare)
- May lower blood pressure (dizziness if already low)
- "Herxheimer" or detox reaction when first starting (mild flu-like symptoms - temporary)
- May cause mild sedation in some people
Drug Interactions
- Blood pressure medications (may lower blood pressure further - monitor)
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants) - may increase bleeding risk (moderate)
- Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar - monitor)
- Diuretics (additive blood pressure lowering)
- Immunosuppressants (may stimulate immune system)
- Generally moderate interaction potential
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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