Olive leaf supplements can be taken as capsules, tinctures, or tea, with each form having its advantages and disadvantages. The best supplement contains a significant amount of oleuropein, and capsules that blend dried leaf and extract are usually the best option. Tinctures are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and are best for viral and bacterial infections, while tea is mild but contains all the health benefits. All supplements should be checked for production, manufacturing processes, and active ingredients.
The olive leaf supplement is a relatively new arrival on the health scene, although its use as an herbal remedy has been known in countries like Greece for centuries. It can be taken as a capsule, as a tincture, or in a tea. The best olive leaf supplement contains a significant amount of oleuropein, which is an antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic.
Capsules contain powdered olive leaves, tinctures are extracted from the leaves, and teas are made from fresh leaves. Each form has its advantages and disadvantages. Capsules may contain powdered olive leaf, powdered olive leaf extract, or a mixture of the two. The former is a milder olive leaf supplement suitable for children, those suffering from mild health problems, or those wishing to follow a health maintenance program. They are also recommended for chronic disease sufferers who need a gentle introduction to the supplement.
The best capsules do not contain fillers and are often based on organic leaves. There are leaves that are of better quality depending on the producer, but these capsules are usually more expensive. The best leaves are richer in the active ingredients, and the strength of the capsules depends on the weight of the leaves used. Capsules that contain only olive leaf extract may contain the exact levels of oleuropein needed, but may not contain the other important active ingredients in olive leaf that support or enhance oleuropein.
The best olive leaf supplement in capsule form is usually the blend of the dried leaf and extract, as it contains both the desired level of oleuropein and the benefits of the whole leaf. It is also easier on the stomach, and because the capsule is easier to fill, less filler is used. As the capsules are swallowed, they are more active in the digestive tract, while the tinctures are more quickly absorbed into the bloodstream without losing the more volatile components.
Tinctures are the best olive leaf supplement to use in cases of viral and bacterial infections, as it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. Some volatile substances are lost during the drying process necessary in the preparation of the capsules, but are retained in the cold extraction process used in the manufacture of a tincture. There are no fillers or preservatives used, and a good quality tincture should last about five years. However, the bitter taste and higher cost may be off-putting to some.
The tea is probably the best olive leaf supplement, as its action is mild, but all the health benefits are there. Using organic leaves is probably the best option, since no chemicals are used in their production. The leaves should be dried below 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius). All supplements should be checked for production, manufacturing processes, and active ingredients, especially oleuropein.
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