Organic olive leaf herbal tea — An iconic plant of the Mediterranean basin

The olive tree (Olea europaea) is one of the most iconic trees of the Mediterranean region, cultivated for over 6,000 years for its fruit and oil. Its evergreen leaves, with their characteristic silvery-gray-green color, have also been used for centuries in traditional herbalism to prepare infusions. Herberry offers dried olive leaves, certified organic.

Botanical overview

Olea europaea is a tree in the Oleaceae family, slow-growing and exceptionally long-lived (several centuries, or even millennia). Its lanceolate, leathery leaves are evergreen, dark green on top and silvery underneath. The tree produces small white flowers in May-June, followed by olives in the autumn. It is grown all around the Mediterranean basin, from Portugal to the Middle East, in a very specific climatic zone.

Olive leaves contain oleuropein (a secoiridoid glycoside in high quantities, along with its aglycone, hydroxytyrosol), flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin, rutin), triterpenic acids (oleanolic acid, ursolic acid), tannins, and polyphenols. Oleuropein is the most characteristic and studied compound of the olive leaf.

Aromatic and taste profile

Olive leaf infusion offers a liquor that is slightly amber to greenish. Its taste is direct and bitter, with a characteristic slightly peppery and vegetal note. The bitterness, due to the oleuropein, is quite present and persistent. It is an herbal tea with a strong character, low in sweetness, and often appreciated by lovers of bold flavors. A drizzle of honey can soften it pleasantly.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 teaspoon of dried leaves (about 1 to 1.5 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, about 90-95°C
• Infusion: 8 to 10 minutes, covered
• Strain and enjoy warm
• Frequency: 1 to 2 cups per day

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for people on antihypertensive treatment without medical advice (possible potentiation of the hypotensive effect)
• Not recommended for people on antidiabetic treatment without medical supervision
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice
• Not recommended for children under 12 years of age
• If currently undergoing medical treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice
• Do not exceed recommended usage amounts
• Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Are Herberry's organic olive leaves certified?

Yes, these olive leaves are certified organic, with no pesticides or synthetic chemical inputs.

What is the difference between olive leaf herbal tea and olive extract supplements?

Standardized olive extracts (often titrated to 20% or 40% oleuropein) are much more concentrated than dried leaf tea. Tea is a traditional form of use, for which the content of active ingredients is variable and depends on the quality of drying and storage. For precise and standardized dosing, capsule extracts are more suitable.

Can fresh olive leaves be used for herbal tea?

Yes, fresh leaves can be used (double the quantity), but dried leaves are more practical and allow for better preservation of active ingredients if the drying process was properly carried out at a low temperature.

How should I store my bag of olive leaves?

Away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Consume preferably within 12 months of opening.

Discover other Herberry herbal teas: See the full Herberry range