The leaf of the olive tree known by the name Olea europaea was first used in Ancient Egypt.
But nowadays these leaves are used as a powder, an extract, and herbal tea. It is like that since these leaves contain many bioactive compounds which have hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic, antihypertensive, antiatherogenic, etc.
In fact, more recent studies prove that this leaf is actually a potent medical tool. The olive leaf extract contains 2 primary polyphenols: hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein.
These polyphenols have been shown to help keep healthy blood vessels, improve blood clotting, and healthy blood pressure.
Olive Leaf Extract and Its Effect on Diabetes
The pre-diabetic and diabetic start of chronic blood glucose elevation forces substantial oxidative stress in the body, activating tissue damage and inflammations which rapidly speeds up aging.
The usual treatments for diabetes come with two primary goals. The first one is to lower blood sugar to normal levels, and the second primary goal is to limit the damage by the inevitable blood glucose spikes which still occur.
The olive leaf extract is showing real promise in both areas. According to a recent trial taking olive leaf extract lowers some of the risk factors when it comes to developing type 2 diabetes.
More About the Research
This research came to the discovery that middle-aged, overweight men who were at risk of obtaining type 2 diabetes with this extract for around twelve weeks improved the way their bodies managed insulin.
Insulin is a vital hormone that controls the metabolism simply by stimulating the transport of fat and sugar into the cells. According to basic lab and animal studies, this extract can reduce blood glucose through a few mechanisms.
They increase the uptake of sugar into tissues from the blood, slow the digestion of starches into simple sugars and slow the absorption of the same sugars from the intestine.
Also, they protect tissues from oxidant damage which occurs when the sugar binds to proteins in the process known by the name glycation. These mechanisms above mentioned have observable benefits.
Other Health Benefits of Olive Leaf Extract
But the olive leaf extract is not only beneficial when it comes to treating diabetes. This extract comes with other health benefits, such as:
- Improves immune system
- Kills fungi and bacteria
- Lowers blood pressure
- Protects the central nervous system and the brain from Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease
- Helps treat arthritis such as osteoarthritis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis
Word of Caution
Bear in mind that for any change in the usual diabetes plan, eating habits, etc. we need to consult our doctor. This also stands for using a new supplement. Consult your doctor about whether you should use it or what dosage should you take.
What do you think about these recent findings on the olive leaf extract? Did you know about all its benefits?
