It might sound like something out of a Mediterranean cookbook—but olive leaf extract is making serious waves in the world of natural medicine. While most of us are familiar with the health benefits of olive oil, it turns out that the real healing magic may lie in the leaves of the olive tree.

For the nearly one in four Canadian adults dealing with high blood pressure—and the many more navigating borderline numbers—the search for safe, effective, and natural solutions is critical. Now, a growing body of research points to olive leaf extract as a powerful, plant-based option for lowering blood pressure naturally.

In this blog, we’ll break down the science, explore how olive leaf extract compares to traditional pharmaceuticals, and show you how to incorporate it into your wellness routine—with sustainability and holistic health always top of mind.

Why Blood Pressure Matters

Before diving into the benefits of olive leaf extract, let’s talk about why blood pressure is such a big deal.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is often called the “silent killer” because it typically develops without obvious symptoms. Left unchecked, it significantly increases the risk of:

• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Vision loss

According to Health Canada, more than 7.5 million Canadians live with high blood pressure—and globally, the problem is growing. In the U.S., only 24% of people with hypertension have their condition under control.

These numbers are more than stats—they represent people living with a condition that, while serious, is often preventable and manageable with the right support.

What Is Olive Leaf Extract?

Derived from the leaves of the olive tree (Olea europaea), olive leaf extract has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It contains a powerful compound called oleuropein, which is thought to be responsible for many of its health benefits.

Other beneficial compounds include:

• Hydroxytyrosol
• Flavonoids
• Polyphenols

Together, these antioxidants support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and help regulate blood pressure.

The Science Behind Olive Leaf Extract and Blood Pressure

In recent years, olive leaf extract has attracted the attention of researchers—and the results are compelling.

Study #1: A 2011 randomized clinical trial compared olive leaf extract with the pharmaceutical drug captopril, a common treatment for high blood pressure. Remarkably, both groups saw similar reductions in systolic and diastolic pressure. (Phytomedicine, 2011;18:251-8)

Study #2: A 2017 European Journal of Nutrition study found that a daily dose of olive leaf extract significantly lowered blood pressure in people with borderline hypertension. (Eur J Nutr 2017;56(4):1421-1432)

New Meta-Analysis (2025): A recent review of three studies involving 248 participants with hypertension or prehypertension showed that a daily dose of 1,000mg of olive leaf extract led to an average decrease of:

• 11.45 mmHg in systolic blood pressure
• 4.65 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure

Those numbers are meaningful. According to The Lancet (2016), a 10 mmHg reduction in systolic pressure can lower your risk of:

• Stroke by 27%
• Coronary heart disease by 17%
• Heart failure by 28%

How Olive Leaf Extract Works

Olive leaf extract supports healthy blood pressure through multiple mechanisms:

Vasodilation: It helps relax blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing pressure on artery walls.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation can contribute to hypertension. Olive leaf extract helps tame inflammation naturally.
Antioxidant Protection: Oxidative stress is a known factor in cardiovascular disease. Olive leaf extract’s rich antioxidant profile helps protect blood vessels from damage.
Blood Sugar Balance: Emerging research suggests it may also improve insulin sensitivity, which is linked to blood pressure regulation.

Choosing the Right Olive Leaf Extract

Not all supplements are created equal. Look for the following when selecting a product:

Standardized Extracts: Choose one standardized to 20% oleuropein or higher for maximum potency.
Transparent Sourcing: Brands that disclose their sourcing practices often prioritize purity and sustainability.
Third-Party Testing: This ensures the product is free from contaminants and delivers what it promises.

At Shuswap Health Foods, we carry trusted olive leaf extract supplements that meet these criteria. Stop by and ask one of our knowledgeable team members to help you find the right fit.

How to Take Olive Leaf Extract

The effective dosage used in the 2025 meta-analysis was 1,000 mg daily, usually divided into two doses.

Capsules are the most common and convenient form, but you can also find liquid extracts for faster absorption.

Always start with a lower dose to assess tolerance, and consult your healthcare provider—especially if you’re on blood pressure medication.

Olive Leaf and the Bigger Picture of Wellness

While olive leaf extract is a promising natural remedy for high blood pressure, it works best when combined with holistic lifestyle changes:

Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in whole grains, leafy greens, healthy fats, and plant-based proteins.
Stay active with daily movement, even light walking.
Manage stress through mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing.
Get enough sleep—rest is key to cardiovascular recovery.

At Shuswap Health Foods, we believe in addressing the root cause of imbalances and empowering our community with practical, sustainable solutions.

Final Thoughts: Nature Knows Best

High blood pressure doesn’t have to mean a lifetime of prescription medication. With growing evidence and centuries of traditional use behind it, olive leaf extract offers a safe, natural, and effective way to support cardiovascular health.

Ready to try it for yourself? Visit us at Shuswap Health Foods—we’d love to help you explore natural options tailored to your lifestyle.