Olive leaf extract has been the focus of many recent studies to clinically prove it can lower blood pressure and help with various other ailments. Studies have shown that olive leaf extract may indeed help lower blood pressure in persons with borderline hypertension or mild hypertension. It can also lower the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) in the blood stream, reduce susceptibility to sicknesses such as colds and the flu by boosting the immune system, and cleanse the body of toxins as a powerful antioxidant.

Blood pressure is defined as the force of blood against artery walls as it flows through the body. Though it rises and falls throughout the day it can sometimes remain elevated for an extended period of time, which usually results in a medical diagnosis of high blood pressure.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, should never be taken lightly. Having continuous high blood pressure puts a person at a high risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also result in kidney disease, congestive heart failure and blindness. And unfortunately, high blood pressure often shows up with no visible or felt symptoms.

What is Olive Leaf Extract?

Olive leaf extract is extracted from the leaves of the olive tree (Olea euroaea). The popular Mediterranean ingredient "olive oil" is also derived from the olive tree. Olive leaf extract has been used for medicinal and cooking purposes for thousands of years, and the olive tree is also the first botanical mentioned in the Christian Holy Bible as a natural herb for healing. The liquid extract from olive leaves is believed to afford remarkable health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that its antioxidant capacity is almost double the capacity of green tea.

So how does olive leaf extract aid in lowering blood pressure? Research indicates that a compound within the olive leaf extract called oleuropein may be responsible for lowering blood pressure. The antihypertensive effects result from a relaxation of the arteries, which enhances blood flow. As a powerful antioxidant, olive leaf extract also protects blood vessels from damage, which in turn helps prevent coronary occlusion (complete or partial obstruction of blood flow in a coronary artery). It may even reverse arteriosclerosis when taken over an extended period of time.

How to Buy Olive Leaf Extract

There are a number of olive leaf extract products available over the counter at health and herb supplement stores and particularly on the Web. The Internet is where you'll find a variety of products to compare as you try to discover one to fit your health needs and budget. Only be careful...take time to do research on various products to find high quality supplements. Cheaper brands can sometimes mean less effectiveness, so read and compare ingredients on each product.

One company that has done extensive research on olive leaf extract and anti-aging products is East Park Research. You'll find products to boost immunity and daily energy levels, lower blood pressure, blood sugar control, and other natural health products centered on olive leaf extract research. Look for name brands such as d-Lenolate, Indium Energy, Flu-Ban and Bazucar.

Check out these and other helpful olive leaf extract products online. But as with any other natural supplement, consult your doctor if you suffer from very high blood pressure or if you are already taking prescribed medications for blood pressure or other health conditions. Even if you need to focus on lowering your blood pressure, your body will simultaneously enjoy the other natural health benefits of this fantastic herb extract!