Olive leaf extract is a panacea for the body; it purifies, improves blood circulation, an excellent natural antioxidant, and an anti-inflammatory.The olive leaf extract is a little-known herbal remedy; however, it nonetheless distills excellent properties. Known for centuries and used in many traditional medicines to cure various ailments, the olive leaf extract is very currently in vogue and continues to be studied by the modern scientific world.Like any other herbal medicine, the olive leaf extract has many benefits; however, it may also have some harmful or side effects, depending on the person using it.Let’s find out together the olive leaf extract side effects, but before, it is good to name some of the important benefits of the olive leaf extract.

1. Health benefits of the olive leaf extract

1.1 Olive leaf to improve heart health

Olive leaves have been used since ancient times in the form of a  herbal tonic to support cardiovascular health. Studies indicate that high doses of olive leaf extract help reduce harmful cholesterol levels, maintain blood pressure levels within the normal limits, and have positive effects on Atherosclerosis.The active substances in the olive leaf extract have also been linked to reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. Animal studies indicate that the olive leaf extract may improve cardiovascular functions, liver function, and reverse harmful effects on infections.Another animal study on mice consuming foods rich in fat and carbohydrates indicates that mice that did not receive olive leaf extract have developed symptoms of increased fat accumulation in the abdominal and liver area, the collagen protein accumulation on the heart and liver, and increased oxidative stress, compared to mice that received olive leaf extract.

1.2 Prevention of type 2 diabetes

Olive leaf extract helps to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A study conducted on 46 middle-aged people who were overweight and ate olive leaf extract for 12 weeks had the results of their tests show improvement in insulin sensitivity.

1.3 Olive leaf to reduce the risk of cancer

It is believed that olive leaves can help fight cancer by their ability to stop what is known as angiogenesis. It is a vital process through which new blood vessels are produced from existing blood vessels, as this process stimulates the growth of cancerous tumors.Oleuropein has antioxidant and anti-angiogenic properties, inhibiting the multiplication and spread of cancer cells. Olive leaf extract helps slow the growth of cells associated with breast, bladder, and brain cancer.Related: Does a vegetable diet reduce the risk of diabetes and heart diseases?

1.4 Some other benefits of olive leaves include

  • Supplying the body with energy.
  • Reducing dental pain.
  • Reducing food craving.
  • Pacemaker.
  • Reducing joint pain.
  • Improving wound recovery.

2. Precautions of use and olive leaf extract side effects

Now, after dealing with some of the numerous advantages of the olive leaf extract, let's move to its use and its side effect.

3. Precautions and contraindication of using olive leaf extract

3.1 Contraindications

There is no known contraindication, but it is recommended that pregnant women take the advice of a doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment with olive leaves.

3.2 Interactions with medicinal plants or supplements

The olive leaf has a slight hypotensive effect, which can improve that of other plants or supplements.

4. Olive leaf extract side effects and warning of use

Although studies have shown that the health benefits of olive leaves are many, there is still a need for further studies looking at whether continuing to eat olive leaf extract has a long-term effect. Some of the apparent olive leaf extract side effects are;A headache and muscle discomfort and people who have had severe or disturbing side effects should stop taking the olive leaf extract. And it is not confirmed until now if the olive leaf extract can interact with other medications, so for individuals who take certain medications, contact your doctor if they want to take olive leaf extract.There is no scientific data on the safety of using olive leaves during pregnancy and lactation, so it is recommended to avoid use during these periods unless the use is supervised by a specialist.It is forbidden to use olive leaves by people who are hypersensitive to them, or to one of the substances used in the manufacture of the products that contain them.People who suffer from chronic diseases and use medicines for their health conditions, should not use the olive leaf extract or the preparations containing it, only after consulting a specialist doctor. The olive leaves cause hypotension and blood sugar and may also cause high blood pressure.Olive leaf extract may cause increased effectiveness of some blood-thinning medications, such as Warfarin, as it may prevent the platelets from attaching to each other. The use of olive leaves may hinder the work of drugs used in chemotherapy, so it is recommended to consult a doctor before using olive leaf extract by people using these medications.

5. Other possible olive leaf extract side effects

Stomach irritation, which often accompanies the use of high-dose olive leaf extract.

  • A headache.
  • Acid reflux.
  • Heartburn.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Muscle discomfort.

It is always better to take every medicine or herbal medicine in moderation.

Originally published on Live Positively.