10 Medicinal Constituents Of Olea Europaea (Olive)

Olea europaea has active constituents such as oleocanthal, hydroxytyrosol, and oleuropein.

These compounds possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which have been shown to improve heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers. Oleocanthal has also been found to have neuroprotective effects, which may help in preventing age-related cognitive decline.

By incorporating olive into one's diet, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of chronic diseases and improve their overall quality of life.

This article explains in details the 10 best active constituents of Olea europaea.

1. Oleic acid

Olea europaea oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that is primarily found in olive oil.

It is a primary component of extra virgin olive oil, making up approximately 70% of its composition. Oleic acid has been linked to various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health due to its ability to lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels.

Its unique molecular structure also makes it resistant to oxidation, contributing to the longevity and stability of olive oil.

2. Elaidic acid

Olea europaea elaidic acid is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that is primarily found in olive oil.

It is a omega-9 fatty acid, which means it has a single double bond in its chemical structure.

Elaidic acid has been linked to various potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

3. Linoleic acid

Olea europaea linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is predominantly found in olive oil.

It has been extensively researched for its potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving cardiovascular risk factors, and providing antioxidant properties.

Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid, meaning the human body cannot produce it on its own and it must be obtained through dietary sources or supplements.

4. Campesterol

Olea europaea campesterol is a naturally occurring steroid found in the leaves and fruit of the olive tree.

It is a major component of olive oil, accounting for about 1-2% of its composition. Campesterol has been shown to have potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health.

It is also used as a natural antioxidant and preservative in food products.

5. Sitosterol

Olea europaea sitosterol is a plant sterol that is naturally occurring in olives and other plants.

It is a type of phytochemical that has been studied for its potential health benefits, including lowering cholesterol levels and improving heart health.

Sitosterol is also used as an ingredient in food supplements and cosmetics due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Ursolic acid

Olea europaea ursolic acid is a bioactive compound extracted from the leaves and bark of the European olive tree.

This pentacyclic triterpenoid has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Ursolic acid has been shown to exhibit cytotoxic effects on various types of cancer cells, making it a promising candidate for the development of new cancer treatments.

7. Oleanolic acid

Olea europaea oleanolic acid is a type of triterpenoid compound found in the fruit and leaves of the Mediterranean olive tree.

It has been studied for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Oleanolic acid has also shown promise in reducing cholesterol levels, inhibiting cancer cell growth, and exhibiting antiviral activity.

8. Cynarine

Olea europaea cynarine is a flavonoid glycoside compound extracted from the leaves of the olive tree (Olea europaea).

This bioactive compound has been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for various therapeutic applications.

Cynarine has been studied for its potential benefits in treating conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurological disorders, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

9. Oleuropein

Olea europaea oleuropein is a bitter-tasting phenolic compound found in the leaves and fruits of the tree.

It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various health conditions, including inflammation, infections, and cardiovascular disease.

Oleuropein exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential therapeutic agent for treating chronic diseases.

10. Rosmarinic acid

Olea europaea rosmarinic acid is a bioactive compound found in various parts of the plant.

This phenolic acid has been extensively studied for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect against chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

It has also been shown to possess antimicrobial and antiviral activities, making it a promising agent in the development of natural products with therapeutic potential.