Olive Uses and Plant Monograph
The olive tree (Olea europaea) is considered the oldest cultivated plant on earth. Archaeological discoveries in Italy, Spain, Jordan, and North Africa estimate its existence as far back as the 12th Millennium BCE (12,000 BCE to 11,001 BCE) with evidence of its cultivation starting approximately 8,000 years ago.1,2 The tree is native to more than a dozen countries in the Mediterranean and Levant regions and its rich histories are deeply embedded in the cultural, religious, and culinary traditions of each country.
Olive Uses & Plant Profile Summary:
- Botanical Name: Olea europaea
- Other Common Names: European olive, wild olive
- Family: Oleaceae
- Parts Used: leaves, fruits
- Energetics: cooling, drying
- Taste: astringent, bitter
- Plant Properties: anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, astringent, febrifuge, hypoglycemic, neuroprotective, hypotensive, anti-ischemic, anti-atherogenic, anti-atherosclerotic, hypolipidemic, styptic, antispasmodic, bronchodilator, coronary dilator, diuretic, anti-angiogenic, (olive oil is also demulcent, laxative, vulnerary, and lubricant)
- Plant Uses: cardiovascular support, neurological support, immune support, wound healing as topical use (olive oil)
- Plant Preparations: infusion, decoction, tincture, powder, capsules, oil
Researchers suggest that the wild olive tree originated in Asia Minor or Syria and spread to Greece, where ancient sea merchants brought it to Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal.3 Today, there are an estimated 850 million olive trees in the world. The trees continue to be relied upon for food, oil, medicine, and wood, and are a defining feature of the Mediterranean landscape.
As a primary ingredient in the Mediterranean diet and as medicine, the olive tree offers two primary sources of therapeutic value: the olive leaf and the olive fruit pressed into olive oil. Both have been extensively studied for their highly therapeutic benefits for the cardiovascular, neurological, and immune systems.
“It is quite affecting to observe how much the olive tree is to the country people. Its fruit supplies them with food, medicine and light; its leaves, winter fodder for the goats and sheep; it is their shelter from the heat and its branches and roots supply them with firewood. The olive tree is the peasant’s all-in-all.”
- Fredrika Bremer
Olive for Heart Health & Cardiovascular Support
Scientific research on olive leaf and olive oil has demonstrated many amazing health benefits for the heart and cardiovascular system. Olive contains several types of polyphenols, most notably oleuropein. Generally, polyphenols support diseases associated with the cardiovascular system, degeneration of the neurological system, and cancer. Polyphenols act as antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals in the body that cause detrimental and systemic inflammation that can lead to these types of diseases.4
The polyphenol oleuropein is found in high amounts in both the olive leaf and olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil. Oleuropein exhibits several key therapeutic actions that support the cardiovascular system, including discouraging the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries (anti-atherogenic) and discouraging tumors from growing their own blood vessels (anti-angiogenic).5 Notably, olive leaves have the highest amount of oleuropein present in the olive tree.
Olive oil has been studied extensively for its ability to support the healthy function of the heart. Studies on extra virgin olive oil have had promising results to help lower blood pressure and improve the function of blood vessels.6 Extra virgin olive oil has approximately 500mg/Kg of polyphenols compared with common (non-extra virgin olive oil) or blended olive oils which have approximately 0–110mg/Kg.7 Always choose the highest quality possible of olive oil available to you to receive the most therapeutic benefits.
In addition to polyphenols, olive has high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, notably oleic acid. These acids help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and lower LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind).8
Olive for High Blood Pressure
Olive leaf has been a traditional remedy in the Mediterranean region and Europe for hypertension and atherosclerosis.9 In this part of the world it is easy to find an olive tree to harvest the leaves, so it is common to make an infusion of fresh or dried leaves. The herbal infusion is used to help lower high blood pressure and remove plaque in the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. In the scientific field, oleuropein is best known for its blood pressure-lowering effect.10
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, diseases linked to atherosclerosis are the leading cause of death in the United States. Approximately half of Americans between the ages of 45 and 84 have the condition and are unaware of it. When there is plaque in the arteries, the supply of oxygen-rich blood to tissues of vital organs is reduced and weakens their function.11
Studies on olive’s hypotensive properties have found it to act as a coronary vasodilator due to the presence of oleacein.12 Found in both olive leaf and olive oil, oleacein is a polyphenol that has been studied for its ability to protect the cardiovascular system from the imbalance of cholesterol (dyslipidemia), insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance.13 Many scientific studies have demonstrated olive’s effective hypotensive and lipid-lowering effects.14
For those who do not have access to an olive tree to harvest the leaves, the consumption of olive oil also delivers the same benefits, as oleacein is one of the most abundant polyphenolic compounds of olive oil. For those on blood pressure medication, consult with your doctor about consuming olive leaf or olive oil for the purpose of hypertension and atherosclerosis supporttreatment.
Olive for Neurological Protection
Studies have also demonstrated that oleuropein found in both olive leaf and olive oil supports brain function and acts as a neuroprotective agent. Specifically, oleuropein reduces oxidative damage to the region of the brain most affected by the neurodegeneration caused by Parkinson’s disease.15 It also prevents the build-up of toxic proteins involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.16
Olive for Immune Support
Olive can support the immune system as an antiseptic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent. It can help improve the immune response by eliminating various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.17
An infusion of olive leaf (1 part) is a remedy that I often use in combination with hawthorn leaf and flower (Crataegus spp.) (2 parts), Greek sage (Salvia fruticosa) (1 part), and rosehips (Rosa canina) (¼ part) for the high antioxidant benefits that support both the cardiovascular and immune systems. The taste of olive leaf is mild which makes it an excellent addition to almost any herbal tea blend.
Olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, has been shown to support a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to improved immunity.18 It is estimated that people worldwide consume approximately 3 million tons of olive oil every year.
Olive for Cancer Prevention
Studies have shown that olive leaf has antitumor properties related to various cancers.19 One study demonstrated that the triterpenoid maslinic acid had antiproliferative effects (preventing or suppressing cell growth) against cancer cells in the colon.20 Other phytoconstituents present in olive leaf and olive oil, such as flavonoids and phenolics, can also contribute to slowing down tumor growth.
Olive for Diabetes Support
The monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, is present throughout the tree in high amounts. It is a type of omega-9 fatty acid that has been studied for its potential to reduce the risk of diabetes and support healthy insulin levels.21
Ethnobotanical surveys in Algeria, Morocco, and Palestine revealed that olive leaf was commonly used for the treatment of diabetes.22,23,24 Constituents in the leaf, including oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, have shown to help lower unhealthy insulin levels, reduce oxidative stress that can cause further complications, and improve pancreatic function.25,26,27 Hydroxytyrosol is considered a powerful polyphenol that is found in the leaf, fruit, and oil.
Olive Oil for Topical Use
Traditionally, olive oil has been used since antiquity as topical medicine. The ancient Greeks would coat their bodies with olive oil in the winter to help protect from cold temperatures. They also used olive oil to cleanse their hair and bodies, make perfumes, and anoint the dead before burial.
Most curiously, ancient Greek athletes would rub olive oil on their bodies before exercising and afterwards they would scrape off the olive oil and sweat from their bodies and collectively mix this blend, called gloios. Gloios was considered to have emollient properties that could support a range of ailments, including reduce swelling from sprains, mollify joints, relieve genital infections, and stimulate menstrual flow. Thankfully, this tradition was only practiced in ancient Greece!
In modern herbal medicine, olive oil is used for its emollient and moisturizing properties that benefit the skin and support healthy cell regeneration. Olive oil is commonly used as the carrier oil for herbal infusions. Common herbs for oil infusions include calendula (Calendula officinalis), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), arnica (Arnica spp.), lavender (Lavendula), and many others. Infusing herbs in olive oil is an easy and effective remedy for healing wounds, as both the olive oil and the selected herbs exhibit vulnerary properties for faster and improved wound healing.
Whether on its own or combined with an herb in an oil infusion, olive oil is widely popular in traditional remedies for treating dermatitis, burns, minor abrasions, muscle tears and for promoting skin toning. Olive oil, administered slightly heated and in 1–2 drops, can also be used to relieve ringing in the ears and ear infections. (Olive oil should not be applied in the ear if you have a ruptured eardrum). A mullein (Verbascum) flower oil infusion is a common remedy for earaches.
An oil infusion I made with dried rose buds (Rosa canina) helped a friend with a wound on her foot, and she appreciated its fragrant rose scent.
In Greece, St. John’s wort oil is called balsam oil and can often be found in small village apothecaries for topical use to relieve sore muscles, aches, and bruises.
Constituents
The olive tree exhibits several powerful constituents that have demonstrated a variety of therapeutic discoveries in the medical scientific arena.
The phenolic compound oleuropein has been studied extensively and has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, antiviral, and neuroprotective properties.28 Within each of these properties, oleuropein exhibits multiple biological effects on the body. For example, as an antioxidant, oleuropein can inhibit the oxidation of LDL cholesterol:, which LDL cholesterol leads to atherosclerosis, and the presence of free radicals that cause inflammation.29 Oleuropein is present in the olive fruit, leaf, and oil, with significantly higher amounts in the leaf.
Hydroxytyrosol is a polyphenol that has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-ischemic, anti-atherosclerotic, and hypolipidemic effects.30
In olive leaf, the primary constituents include oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, oleanolic acid, and flavonoids. These constituents also help the tree resist damage from pathogens and insects. In olive oil, the primary constituents include oleic acid, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, linoleic acid, oleuropein, oleanolic acid, maslinic acid, and melatonin.31
The comprehensive scientific research is indicative of how important olive is for the health of the body.
Symbolism of Olive
The olive branch has been considered a token of peace for thousands of years. This symbolism appears in numerous examples throughout history in different cultures and religions. In ancient Greece, the olive tree was associated with Athena, the goddess of strength and wisdom. The tree was an important part of the founding myth of ancient Athens, where Athena created the very first olive tree as a gift to the Athenians. The olive tree became a symbol of her wisdom.
Many ancient writers describe its crucial role to the culture, health, and commerce of early civilizations in the Mediterranean and Levant regions. Pilgrims in ancient Greece would bring olive leaves to sacred temples as an offering to the temple’s god or goddess to help them find a resolution to their problem. Branches of olive leaves were also presented during challenging situations to bring peace and de-escalate tension. Much later in time, in the 1800s, sailors would pour olive oil into the sea to calm turbulent waters and ensure their safe passage.
In Christianity, olive oil is used to anoint devotees during chrismation, the ceremony that introduces new members into the church. Most recently, the coronation of King Charles of England included olive oil produced from hand-picked olives and blessed by religious officials in Jerusalem.
Olive leaf crowns are still worn today on special occasions. During the 2004 Olympics in Athens, victorious athletes were crowned with olive wreaths, just as they were thousands of years earlier.
Botanically Speaking
The Latin botanical name Olea europaea translates to “European olive” and Olea is related to the ancient Greek word, ἐλαία (elaía), meaning “olive berry” or “olive tree.” Olive is a small evergreen tree or shrub that thrives in hot and dry climates. The trees prefer sunny positions in well-drained, light and chalky soils, limestone slopes and crags, and coastal climate conditions. They tolerate drought conditions due to their extensive root system.
“It is quite affecting to observe how much the olive tree is to the country people. Its fruit supplies them with food, medicine and light; its leaves, winter fodder for the goats and sheep; it is their shelter from the heat and its branches and roots supply them with firewood. The olive tree is the peasant’s all-in-all.”
- Fredrika Bremer
The olive tree has a unique gnarled and twisted trunk and does not typically grow taller than 30 feet or 5–20 meters in height. Its thick trunk is pale gray in color and grows bent and twisted, giving an image of deep wrinkles. The leaves of the olive tree are narrow, oblong, smooth, coriaceous (having the texture of leather), thin, and lanceolate (wider at the base than at the midpoint). They are pale green on the top side and silvery-white on the bottom side. The flowers of the olive tree are small, creamy white, and feathery. They are bisexual or polygamous.
The olive fruit is a drupe, botanically similar to cherry and other stone fruits. They are small, succulent, and oily, and require a year to fully mature. Ripe olives are typically blackish-olive. Their outer fleshy part or skin surrounds a hardened kernel.
Impressively, the olive tree can live to be thousands of years old and even in its old age can produce olives.
Plant Preparations and Dosage Suggestions
Olive leaves: Harvest in the autumn when temperatures have cooled. This is when the highest amount of oleuropein is present.32 Avoid harvesting in the heat.
Olive fruit: Harvest when the fruit is ripe between November and March. Olives can be harvested by hand by shaking the tree or by mechanical shakers. Prepare a cloth under the expanse of the tree canopy and collect the olives into breathable sacks. Olive oil is produced by pressing the freshly harvested olives and requires special equipment for storage and packaging.
Olive Leaf Infusion:33 2 teaspoons dried leaf per 8 fl oz water steeped for 1 hour 2–3x/day
Olive Leaf Tincture: 1.5–2 mL (1:5, 60%) 3x/day
Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons per day, preferably organic extra virgin olive oil
Special Considerations
Studies have shown that olive leaf and olive leaf extracts appear to be quite safe, with no short- or long-term detrimental effects on the body.34 Caution is advised for those taking pharmaceutical medications to lower blood pressure. For those with hypoglycemia or taking antidiabetic drugs, it has been theoretically suggested that olive leaf may be contraindicated due to its ability to lower blood sugar levels.35 There is no indication that olive leaf is harmful during pregnancy or lactation. During pregnancy, olive oil can be used topically to prevent stretch marks.
Summary
Olive is a historically-rich tree with many beneficial properties supporting the cardiovascular, neurological, and immune systems. Many scientific studies confirm the benefits of olive leaf and olive oil for a variety of conditions and diseases. The tree continues to symbolize peace throughout the Mediterranean region and is heavily relied upon as a timeless source of traditional remedies.
Footnotes
The Herbal Remedy Vault has all of our printable recipe cards...
