Olive leaf extract contains natural antimicrobials and antioxidants. A 1999 study by the University of Rome assessed the antimicrobial activity of oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, two of the most viable ingredients in olive leaf extract. Both of these have showed an ability to fight staphylococcus and salmonella. Olive leaf extract may help battle problems and illnesses affected by overactive immune systems.
Problems With Overactive Immune System
At first glance, an overactive immune system would seem to be a positive development because your immune system attacks potential health problems readily. In reality, the opposite is true. If you have an overactive immune system, your body can attack itself. For example, in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system is attacking the synovial membrane between joints. In multiple sclerosis, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath.
Olive Leaf Extract
The oleuropein in olive leaf extract may help those suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, according to a 2007 Arizona State University study reported in Nutrition Research. The research involved giving 90 arthritis patients olive leaf extract in the form of "vegetation water" for eight weeks. The patients showed decreases in inflammation and pain, according to the study.
Churg-Strauss Syndrome
Churg-Strauss syndrome is a disorder that leads to swelling and inflammation in the blood vessels. The swelling can lead to the restriction of blood flow to key organs. Churg-Strauss syndrome is caused by an overactive immune system, according to MayoClinic.com. While there is no cure, olive leaf extract can help several of the symptoms, including asthma, fever, night sweats, fatigue and abdominal pain.
Olive Leaf Extract Additonal Uses
Olive leaf extract is considered a holistic tool to combat chronic fatigue, flu, colds, herpes, fungus and yeast infections, bacterial infections, skin conditions and tropical illnesses. But substantial research has still not been completed on its medical effectiveness, and you must consult with your physician if you intend to use olive leaf extract.
References
- Immunedisorders.homestead.com: Your Immune System
- Nutrition Research; Olive Extract Supplement Decreases Pain and Improves Daily Activities in Adults With Osteoarthritis and Decreases Plasma Homocysteine in Those With Rheumatoid Arthritis; C. Bitler and K. Matt
- MayoClinic.com: Churg-Strauss Syndrome
