08 September 2008
Media Release
New study shows olive leaf extract helps heart health and cholesterol
Taking olive leaf extract can help with the lowering of blood pressure and cholesterol, according to a study recently
published in Phytotherapy Research, an international medicinal plant research journal, which details the results of an
eight week trial.
Different amounts of olive leaf extract were given to 20 sets of identical twins who all suffered from mild hypertension
(high blood pressure). Individuals were given either placebo capsules or capsules containing olive leaf extract and had
their blood pressure measured during and at the end of the trial, as well as collecting data about their lifestyles.
A co-author of the study* confirmed that taking olive leaf extract can have significant effects in people with
borderline hypertension.
Comvita General Manager Healthcare, David Bathgate, says this latest study is part of the mounting evidence for the
effectiveness of olive leaf extract.
Having poor heart health is one of the most common ailments of our modern, hectic lifestyles, says Bathgate. The result
of this study supports other data which indicates that olive leaf extract helps to maintain a healthy cardiovascular
system. It’s also good for people interested in taking a general daily tonic that will help maintain their health, he
says.
*Primary source: Phytotherapy Research, Perrinjaquet-Moccetti T, et al "Food supplementation with an olive (Olea
europaea L.) leaf extract reduces blood pressure in borderline hypertensive monozygotic twins" Phytother Res 2008; 22:
1239-1242.
TAPS Approval No: CH2038
ENDS
About Comvita
Comvita enjoys a reputation as a premium global natural health brand and is committed to the development of innovative
natural health and wellbeing products backed by credible scientific research. With a proud 30-year heritage in
therapeutic bee-based products, Comvita is the world’s largest manufacturer and marketer of Manuka (Leptospermum) honey,
however in more recent times the Company has developed its range of ingredient platforms, unique IP and products that
meet global consumer preferences in natural health. Comvita offers products in the categories of Woundcare, Healthcare,
Skincare and Functional Foods. The Company sells its products in over 20 countries with offices in New Zealand, Hong
Kong, Australia, Japan, Taiwan and the UK. Also see www.comvita.com, www.comvitahuni.com, www.medihoney.com and
www.envirolea.com.
About Phytotherapy Research
Phytotherapy Research is a monthly, international journal for the publication of original research papers, short
communications, reviews and letters on medicinal plant research. Key areas of interest are pharmacology, toxicology, and
the clinical applications of herbs and natural products in medicine, from case histories to full clinical trials,
including studies of herb-drug interactions and other aspects of the safety of herbal medicines. Papers concerned with
the effects of common food ingredients and standardised plant extracts, including commercial products, are particularly
welcome, as are mechanistic studies on isolated natural products. Information on the journal can be found at:
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-PTR.html