Olive leaves extract side effects are due to maslinic acid may affect the liver and kidneys. The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) plays an important and holy role in many major religions and is also well documented in the Bible, the Holy Quran, and modern scientific literature. Olive oil and its products prove to be very effective for many health benefits. Not only olive fruits and olive oil is used for various types of treatment but also the leaves of the olive trees have been widely used for the treatment of different diseases and food preservation. The olive leaves benefits are because of high phenolic compounds specifically oleuropein which has various medicinal properties (1). Therefore, it is used in the human diet as an extract, herbal tea, capsule, and powder. Besides this high dose of olive leaves extract side effects are also there
The main components in Olive leaves
Secondary metabolites like oleuropein (OLP), verbascoside, apigenin-7-glucoside (Api7G), luteolin-7-glucoside (Lut7G), hydroxytyrosol (HT), and tyrosol (Phenolic compound) can constitute up to 6-9% of dry matter in the leaves (2). Other bioactive components found in olive leaves include related secoiridoids, flavonoids, triterpenes, and phenols (3).
Olive leaf extract due to its various bioactive components is may useful in the treatment of various diseases. Many pharmaceutical properties like antioxidant, hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic, and antiatherosclerotic effects, besides antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities are reported in many research papers.
Olive leaves therefore have the possibility of use for the treatment of diseases like diabetes, and hypertension. It also may protect the brain and kidneys from injury. Many research suggested that it may help in controlling the cholesterol level of the body. And enhances immunity and controls body weight.
Olive leaves extract side effects
Besides all these health benefits we should keep in mind that olive leaves extract side effects. It contains maslinic acid which has a significant side effect when taken in high amounts. some of the side effects of olive leaves are as follows
1. Presence of maslinic acid
Olive fruit and leaves contain maslinic acid and high doses of maslinic acid have harmful effects however the amount of this acid in olive leaves under the limit does not exert any adverse effects. Thus olive leaf extract should be used with care (4).
2. High dose of olive leaf extract
Olive leaf extract for the long term in a high dosage of more than 1000 mg/Kg sometimes affects the liver and kidneys showing alterations in their tissues including necrosis of hepatocytes and a slight hemorrhage, Thus, precaution should be needed before consumption (5). Yes olive leaves is safe for kidney but only used in moderation. Always consult a professional before including this in your diet.
3. Interaction with medication
People who are taking blood pressure medicines or anticoagulant medicines should use olive oil leaves with caution. As the leaves have components that alter the medical effect consider a doctor or healthcare professional before using the olive leaves extracts in a routine.
4. Allergy
As with any natural product, allergic reactions are possible. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, or hives. Severe allergic reactions can lead to difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Therefore, before using olive leaf extract one should always consult a professional before considering it in the daily routine.