Potion or Poison? Olive leaf

Abstract

SUMMARY MESSAGE: Olive leaf has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and pancreatic beta-cell function, although the mechanism by which it does so is not fully elucidated. Its effects on lipids and blood pressure are less clear and further research is required to substantiate these claims. No interactions have been documented; however, care should be taken with blood pressure?lowering medicines and hypoglycaemic agents, and olive leaf should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women in amounts greater than that found in food.