Olive Benefits
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Olives provide rich stores of antioxidants, healthy fats, and triterpenic acids. Although olives have been used therapeutically for millennia, it is only in the 1900’s that the bitter therapeutic compound, oleuropein, was isolated from the leaf.
Phenolic compounds help relax blood vessels and support healthy circulation. The principle called “oleacein” inhibits the angiotensin converting enzyme that restricts blood vessels and raises blood pressure.
Monounsaturated fats (oleic acid) help reduce bad LDL cholesterol while maintaining good HDL cholesterol.
Active plant compounds assist in lowering blood glucose and supporting insulin sensitivity. Oleuropein helps stimulate glucose uptake into cells and protects insulin-producing beta cells from oxidative stress.
High vitamin E and polyphenol content protect cells from premature aging.
Antioxidants help shield cartilage tissue and ease inflammatory joint pain.
Extracts from the fruit and leaves combat bacteria and fungi.
Vitamins A and E nourish skin cells and defend against UV ray damage.
Topical application of olive oil helps soften skin, ease minor bites, and heal dry tissue.
The leaf extract stops production of microtoxins, which contribute to chronic fatigue.
Traditionally, olive extracts have been used medicinally for viruses, retrovirus, candida, psoriasis, PMS, weight problems, bacteria, protozoa, Epstein Barr virus, poison antidote, enema, heart tonic, colic, laxative, UV skin damage, wound healing, itch, scaly skin, burns, gastric and duodenal ulcers, high blood pressure, blood sugar regulation, heart failure, inflammation, gut health, coughs, sore throats, uric acid build-up, gout, high cholesterol and much more
Unfortunately, even the very best quality olive oil begins turning rancid within 7 days of pressing, so, it’s super important to use it fresh, from a reliable local source. Or use extracts made from the plant. Avoid pasteurised olive oil or any with added preservatives.
This is another truly amazing food that is meant to help us to be well.