Olive leaves have been used medicinally since Ancient Egypt. The olive tree was seen by the Egyptians as a bridge between the Heavens and the Earth. In Greek and Roman mythology the olive tree was a symbol of peace. As the myth goes, Athena gave the olive tree to the people of Athens. In Christianity the olive tree holds deep spiritual significance, symbolising divine grace, unity and inclusion.
Olive leaves contain strong medicine. The leaves hold similar benefits to olive oil – supporting immune health, heart health and decreasing inflammation.
Improves circulation, therefore benefitting those with degenerative brain disorders
Supports lymph system health
Anti-microbial (antibacterial, antifungal and inhibits viral replication), therefore it supports wound healing
Reduces inflammation, helping to relieve arthritis and other inflammatory disorders
Antioxidant properties help support skin health and the complications of diabetes
Lowers blood pressure
Helps the liver to function better
Olive Leaf Oxymel:
A great way to make medicine with olive leaves is to cut the leaves with scissors, place them in a glass jar and pour apple cider vinegar to halfway up the jar. Then top it up with raw, local honey. Allow this mixture, called an oxymel, to steep for 6 weeks in a dark place, shaking the jar daily at first until the honey disolves. Then, strain the mixture into a new jar, preferably dark in color, and discard the leaves into the compost.
The resulting oxymel, not only offers the medicinal benefits of olive leaves, but also the benefits of apple cider vinegar (good for asthma, diabetes and gut health) and raw honey (great for allergies and infections). Take a teaspoon or two when needed during a cold; or use daily for a month or so to help with any of the chronic conditions listed above to see if it helps your symptoms.
You cal also make olive leaf tincture by steeping the cut leaves in brandy or vodka for 6 weeks, if you prefer.
Olive Flower Essence:
The olive flower is used in flower essences. Flower essences sit somewhere between homeopathy and herbal medicine....they are a bit esoteric in nature, but don't let that fool you. As with Bach's Rescue Remedy, flower essences can be very helpful with emotional issues.
I take olive flower essence that I make at home to help me find peace within. In Bach Flower Essences it is used for mental strength and energy; In Ainsworth Flower Essences it is used for mental, physical and emotional balance (great for those experiencing burn-out and exhaustion).
References: