10 Health Benefits Of Olea Europaea (Olive)

Olea europaea, also known as olive, has health benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving cardiovascular health, and protecting against certain cancers.

The medicinal properties of olive include antioxidants, vitamins, and polyphenols, which contribute to these benefits.

Regular consumption of olive oil has been shown to improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Olea europaea.

1. Reduces inflammation

Olea europaea reduces inflammation because it is rich in oleocanthal, a potent polyphenol that has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Additionally, olive oil's fatty acid profile, particularly its high content of omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids, helps to reduce inflammation by promoting the synthesis of anti-inflammatory compounds and disrupting the activity of inflammatory pathways in the body.

2. Lowers blood pressure

Olea europaea lowers blood pressure because of its rich content of monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and polyphenols.

The consumption of olive oil has been shown to decrease systolic blood pressure in hypertensive individuals by improving lipid profiles and reducing inflammation.

Additionally, the oleic acid present in olive oil helps to relax blood vessels, increasing blood flow and decreasing peripheral resistance, ultimately contributing to a reduction in blood pressure levels.

3. Improves brain function

Olea europaea improves brain function because it is rich in oleocanthal and hydroxytyrosol, two potent neuroprotective compounds.

These antioxidants have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which can contribute to cognitive decline and age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Additionally, oleic acid present in olive oil supports healthy brain function by regulating cholesterol levels and improving blood flow to the brain.

4. Prevents cancer cell growth

Olea europaea prevents cancer cell growth because of its rich antioxidant and phenolic compounds.

These bioactive molecules have been shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells while inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

Additionally, olive's oleocanthal has been found to selectively target and kill cancer stem cells, reducing the risk of tumor recurrence.

5. Boosts skin health

Olea europaea boosts skin health because of its rich antioxidant properties and high concentration of polyphenols.

The oil extracted from olives contains vitamin E and beta-carotene, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, reducing signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines.

Additionally, olive oil's fatty acid composition helps to moisturize and soothe the skin, leaving it looking smooth, radiant, and healthy.

6. Lowers bad cholesterol

Olea europaea lowers bad cholesterol because of its rich content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), particularly oleic acid.

These MUFAs have been shown to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels by inhibiting the absorption of dietary cholesterol and increasing the production of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, thereby improving overall cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease.

7. Reduces risk of heart disease

Olea europaea reduces risk of heart disease because of its rich antioxidant and monounsaturated fat content.

The polyphenols in olives have been shown to improve blood lipid profiles, lowering LDL cholesterol levels and increasing HDL levels.

Additionally, the healthy fats in olives help to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function, both of which can contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease.

8. Regulates blood sugar levels

Olea europaea regulates blood sugar levels because it contains a unique compound called oleuropein.

This potent antioxidant has been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes responsible for converting starch into glucose, thereby slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates.

As a result, olive extract has been found to decrease postprandial hyperglycemia (high blood sugar after meals) and improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

9. Improves bone density

Olea europaea improves bone density because it contains a rich source of calcium and other minerals that are essential for bone health.

The antioxidants present in olives, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to osteoporosis.

Additionally, olive oil's oleic acid has been found to promote bone growth and development by inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down bone tissue.

10. Prevents ulcers

Olea europaea prevents ulcers because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil extracted from the fruit of this plant contains oleocanthal, a potent compound that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reduces the formation of gastric lesions.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in olive oil help to protect the stomach lining from damage caused by free radicals, thereby preventing ulcers and promoting overall digestive health.