Side Effects of Olive Leaf Extract

Olive leaf extract is a supplement used to boost your immune system. It acts as a natural pathogen killer, fighting various strains of bacteria, viruses and fungi. Olive leaf extract can be used to aid in the treatment of the common cold and flu, ear infections, yeast infections, viral infections, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. It's available for purchase at most health food stores.

Detoxification Reaction

Taking olive leaf extract can cause some people to experience a detoxification reaction. This occurs when your liver, kidneys, intestines and/or skin become overwhelmed with dead pathogens. You may experience increased fatigue, diarrhea, muscle and joint aches, rashes and/ or pimples. To reduce the symptoms of a detox reaction, lower the dose of olive leaf extract you were taking or stop taking it altogether until your symptoms improve.

Headache

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Some people have reported headaches at the start of taking olive leaf extract. Most likely, these headaches are associated with the initial detox reaction and subside in time. If you experience headaches while taking olive leaf extract, reduce your dose of the supplement or stop taking it entirely until your headaches resolve.

Low Blood Glucose

Olive leaf extract may cause you to have lower blood glucose levels. If you are a diabetic or someone who needs to monitor his blood glucose, check with you doctor before you begin taking olive leaf extract.