Globally, there is increased focus on health, and health-conscious societies are increasingly relying on supplements for improving overall health. A variety of supplements and nutraceuticals available in the markets are helping individuals plug the gap in nutrients form regular dietary intake. Many supplements deliver targeted benefits, helping individuals manage conditions effectively, while some supplements help prevent or delay the onset of conditions. Olive leaf has been a part of routine diets among populations in the Mediterranean, and this has been identified as one of the reasons for relatively lower number of ailments and fatalities from certain conditions. Here is an in depth look at the benefits and olive leaf extract side effects.
Overview of the leaf traditionally considered as packed with health benefits
In addition to being a part of the regular diet of populations in the Mediterranean, it has also been widely used as an extract in traditional medicine. Proven benefits of the leaf are backed by science, and are being substantiated through research. Studies in the past were mainly focused on animals; however, there in an increase in the number of trials conducted on humans. This indicates the growing interest in the leaf and a determination to study its impact on health. The most commonly cited examples of its impact on health are that of lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure levels.
A majority of the health benefits of the leaf extract are attributed to the rich source of polyphenols in olive tree leaves. For instance, oleacein and oleuropein are plant-based compounds that have known results on individuals with cancer and certain heart conditions. it’s time to look at the commonly reported benefits before diving into olive leaf extract side effects. Olive leaf supplements are typically available either in capsule form, or as tablets or as tea. Individuals may choose a particular type, depending on the form that is most suitable or convenient to fit into lifestyle or routines.
Helps in weight management
As outlined above, olive leaf extract has potential and proven benefits in weight management. Cholesterol rich diets are one of the reasons for obesity and weight gain. The use of olive leaf extract is known to help control weight effectively. This has also been backed by studies conducted on laboratory animals, which showed reduced body weight, improved metabolism and lesser fat tissue. The impact of the compounds in olive leaves is clearly demonstrated through lowered LDL levels. Known commonly as bad cholesterol, LDL or low-density lipoprotein is responsible for weight gain and manifestation in heart ailments when the levels are not controlled effectively and on time. The need for higher levels of HDL and lower levels of LDL needs little introduction, and olive leaves are known to help individuals control cholesterol levels.
Reduction in blood pressure levels
Among human trials conducted in the past o look into the benefits of olive leaves, the studies pertaining to blood pressure is significant. Participants in a study conducted over a two-month period were put on a diet that included olive leaf supplements, while a control group continued on a normal diet without olive leaf supplements. The results of the study showed that the group which consumed a diet with olive leaf supplements had lower blood pressure levels when compared with the group that had not consumed the supplements. This indicates the proven results of supplements or extracts of olive leaf. Other studies also corroborate this effect of lowering blood pressure among patients.
Management of blood sugar levels
In addition to the above, olive leaf supplements are also known to have a positive impact on patients diagnosed with diabetes. While most of the information available in the past regarding this effect had mostly been anecdotal in nature, studies conducted recently have helped corroborate the claim. Participants in study were divided into groups, with one group given olive leaf supplements over a three-month period. The other group continued with regular diet, and the results were compared before and after the three-month period. The results clearly indicated that the group on the extract benefitted from the supplements with better insulin sensitivity and response from the pancreas. This is known to specifically benefit patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Tips to avoid undesirable effects of the supplement
Regardless of the benefits linked to supplements or medications, there are possible undesirable effects or outcomes that could be experienced by individuals. In addition to possible unwanted outcomes, natural products or leaf extracts require proper storage to prevent degradation. It is ideal to rely on extracts that have been processed in such a manner so as to rid the supplement of possible storage related complications. Additionally, it is also important to ensure that olive leaf extract is stored in a cool place, away from direct sunlight or light. This will prevent its degradation and also deliver best results.
The need to stick to ideal dosage
One of the reasons for adverse outcomes in medications and supplements and herbal remedies is incorrect dosage and improper use. This is especially true in the case of supplements. For instance, medications are typically governed by FDA rules and regulations, which means that the medication is available in standard presentations and strengths. In the absence of similar standardization, markets are typically flooded with products with different strengths and concentrations. In addition to this, individuals are more likely to consider herbal supplements as totally safe and consume it in excessive amounts. This can lead to toxic overdose and accompanied adverse outcomes.
While it may be difficult to determine offhand, the safe levels of the extract, the benchmark is typically the levels used on participants in studies and research. Most participants in studies typically consumed anywhere between 500 mg to 1000 mg daily. This essentially makes 1000 mg as the safe upper limit to be consumed. Additionally, the 1000 mg was divided into doses, and it is necessary to also divide the intake into separate doses. This will prevent intake of amounts beyond a safe limit at any point of time. Most manufacturers recommend taking dosages of 250 mg wither two or four times a day as per specific requirements.
The absence of specific regulation among dietary supplements results in a possible lack of consistency in the standards. While the labels may indicate a particular strength, the actual strength may be different. This may have an impact on the desired outcomes. It is necessary to choose the right product and in the right strength to ensure best results without adverse effects. The source of the ingredients, the manufacturing processes and the supply chain of products that require proper storage are all factors that may impact the desired results.
Commonly reported olive leaf extract side effects
Apart from the outcomes that are attributed to excessive intake quantity, there are certain undesirable effects attributed to olive leaf extract. It is essential to understand that the undesirable outcomes may affect certain individuals , while it may not affect others. The actual effect may also differ from person to person.
The most commonly reported effects include discomfort in the muscles and possible headache among individuals on the extract. This is generally mild or moderate in nature and may resolve naturally without the need for medical attention. However, in certain rare instances, this may persist and may also be intense in nature. It is necessary to seek medical attention and discontinue the extract if the condition persists or if it reaches a point of intensity making it unbearable. Other possible olive leaf extract side effects as a result of supplement use include pain in the stomach. There is also the possibility of individuals experiencing allergies, when on the supplements. This is because of possible sensitization or allergies to the family of plants that are commonly known as Oleaceae, to which Olive trees belong. Individuals who have experienced any allergies to jasmine, or lilacs are more likely to experience allergies from the supplements. Other plants in this family include rivets, ash trees and the flowering plant forsythia.
Possible interactions due to mechanism of action
Individuals on medications are expected to seek the advice of a doctor before taking the supplement. This is because the mechanism of action of certain medications may interact with the effects of the supplement. For instance, as mentioned earlier, the extract of olive leaf is known to have positive effects on individuals diagnosed with diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol apart from obese patients. Therefore, the supplements may result in unwanted effects or stronger outcomes, if the patient is on other medications or supplements for managing the same condition.
It is necessary to understand the effects of various medications, OTC formulations and supplements before combining two forms as part of treatment regimen. It is to be combined only with the advice of a physician. Patients on medications to treat blood pressure, are advised to seek advice before taking the supplements as this may result in blood pressure levels lower than the desired levels. Similarly, patients on insulin or medications to control blood glucose levels are advised to consult a diabetologist prior to starting off on the supplement. Unregulated use may result in hypoglycemia as a result of combining medications and supplements with the same outcome. Finally, patients on medication labelled as chemotherapy are also advised to seek medical advice, as the antioxidant properties of the supplement may impact the mechanism of action of the chemotherapy drugs.
The need to use supplements responsibly
Most studies on supplements and natural remedies have not taken into account the possible long-term effects. Similarly, there are very studies that have been conducted on a long-term basis to study the effects of supplements. While most supplements, extracted from plant sources are considered as safe, it is necessary to use the required level of caution. Olive leaf extract has been in use as traditional medicine for along period, which makes it relatively safer than other supplements. Additionally, olive leaves have been a part of Mediterranean diets over the ages, and this makes it a safe choice. One of the reasons for the increased focus and attention on olive leaves has been the documented positive effects when taken as part of regular diets. Responsible use of supplements will deliver the desired outcomes.