For centuries the olive leaf has provided a natural way to heal many ailments of the body. This is due to the active agent in olive leaf extract known as oleuropein. This bitter substance is an element of the compound that is used by the olive tree to ensure that the plant is vigorous and resistant to harsh weather conditions, bacterial damage and insect attack. The antimicrobial characteristic of olive leaf extract occurs when the oleuropein breaks down in the body into elolenic acid. This acid interferes with a pathogen's ability to replicate. A beneficial byproduct of this reaction is that a jump start is given to the immune system, which begins to fight bacteria and infection on its own as well.

In addition to this powerful antimicrobial characteristic, olive leaf extract improves circulation by increasing blood flow to the coronary arteries and relieve arrhythmias. It has been found to combat yeast infections by balancing the amount of candida in the system. Warts have also been known to be vulnerable to olive leaf extract as is toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus is a common, contagious condition that strikes many people. Typically it occurs when the immune system is down and once contracted is difficult to eliminate from the system. Also referred to as onychomycosis, this widespread condition accounts for a large proportion of nail disorders and can become quite unsightly and painful. Beginning as discoloration or a light colored spot under the tip of the toenail, this fungus will continue to spread until the entire nail becomes thick and yellow with rough and crumbling

If no action is taken to destroy the fungus, the condition will worsen and eventually the toenail will have a distorted shape, the color may become green, brown, or black, and the toes may begin to emit a foul odor. If the toenail fungus becomes particularly severe, the toenail may be lost, causing considerable pain and making the toe even more vulnerable to additional infection.

Fortunately, toenail fungus does not have to be accepted as a distasteful part of life. There are many treatments available to eradicate the fungus that causes this unpleasant condition. Utilizing the natural healing potential of olive leaf oil is a safe and natural way to get rid of this unsightly and difficult ailment. When purchasing olive leaf extract, it is important to buy from a reputable company as the processing of the plant must be done carefully to ensure that the extract is potent and effective. This product may be purchased in tincture, capsules, or salves that are made from the extract. In the form of a salve it should be used as directed based on the potency of the active ingredient of oleuropein.

When ingesting olive leaf extract it is important to begin slowly to prevent what is known as Herxheimer reaction or
About the Author

Dr. Jonathan N. Group, B.S., R.D., D.C. is a Doctor of Chiropractic, Registered Dietitian and Independent Research Scientist. He has over 15 years of educational and research experience in health care focusing in clinical nutrition, alternative medicine, holistic healing, chiropractic, medical testing, rehabilitation, physical medicine, nutritional counseling, wellness, and personal training.