Last verified: 46 days ago
Olive Leaf Extract
Also known as: OLE, Olea europaea leaf extract, oleuropein, olive leaf
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Olive leaf extract may modestly lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol in adults with hypertension.
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What it does
Olive leaf extract (OLE) is a concentrated plant extract from the leaves of the olive tree, rich in a polyphenol called oleuropein. Multiple clinical trials show it can meaningfully reduce...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
250–1000 mg/day (standardized to oleuropein content)
What the Science Says
Olive leaf extract (OLE) is a concentrated plant extract from the leaves of the olive tree, rich in a polyphenol called oleuropein. Multiple clinical trials show it can meaningfully reduce systolic blood pressure (by roughly 5–6 mmHg) and improve lipid markers like LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in people with elevated blood pressure. It also shows antioxidant effects, reducing markers of oxidative stress, and early research suggests it may support muscle energy metabolism in older adults, though strength and fatigue outcomes were not improved.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't replace blood pressure medication on its own. No proven benefit for muscle strength or athletic performance. No solid evidence it reverses skin aging or significantly improves collagen levels. Anti-cancer claims are based on lab studies only — no human cancer treatment data. Won't meaningfully improve liver enzymes on its own.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Olive leaf extract has been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It may support immune function and help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health based on multiple clinical trials and systematic reviews.
Strong EvidenceEffective at: 500-1000 mg daily
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Moderate — oleuropein metabolites are detectable in plasma after supplementation, confirming absorption, but bioavailability varies by formulation and individual gut metabolism.
Red Flags to Watch For
- May interact with blood pressure medications — combining OLE with antihypertensives could cause blood pressure to drop too low
- Most trials are short (8–12 weeks) and small; long-term safety data is limited
- Products vary widely in oleuropein content — standardization is not always guaranteed on labels
- Anti-cancer and anti-aging marketing claims are not supported by human clinical evidence
- The OLE + potassium trial makes it hard to isolate OLE's effects from potassium's known BP benefits
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06