Facts about Olive Leaf Tea
Olive trees have a history that extends back to biblical days, so it should not be surprising that from the humble olive leaf tea has been brewed for centuries as well. Many people are unaware of the medicinal properties that the leaf has long been recognized for possessing; drinking it nowadays simply for its flavorful qualities.
The olive tree has its original roots in Asia Minor or, as it was known in Biblical days, Anatolia. Ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean and Egyptian people revered in this tree; using its fruit, the oils of the fruit, its leaves and its wood for various purposes that were significant in their daily lives. The many healthy derivatives of all the components of the olive tree were quickly realized in those days, but in particular the leaf of this ancient tree has stood out to display some extremely beneficial properties.
Although the actual appearance of the olive leaf is unassuming and simple, it is highly recognized as a sign of peace and of healing. A sprig of olive leaves born in the beak of a white dove was the sign of the rebirth and renewal of earth after the global flooding chronicled in the book of Genesis in the Bible. Crowns woven of the olive leaves and stems were commonly awarded to the victorious members of arena games or battles, as well as being used for offerings to gods. But it was more the implication of the leaves rather than their appearance that gave them such significance. The leaves are silvery green and measure approximately an inch to an inch and a half in length. Multiple leaves stem from a single branch of the tree, which in itself stands less than 50 feet tall.
Later in history, the leaves were used in a brew as a medicinal preparation designed to combat fevers. In the mid to late 1800’s, the freshly picked green leaves of the olive tree were thought to treat malaria in individuals when the leaves were brewed to form an olive leaf tea. Though it had definite health benefits, modern medical professionals were slower to embrace the attributes of the green leaves. It wasn’t until the mid 1900’s that researchers found they were able to extract valuable essential compounds from the leaves to be used in the treatment of numerous different conditions. They discovered the leaves contained a valuable antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
Two methods of making the tea allow individuals to enjoy the benefits of olive leaf tea. It can be made through the liquid extract of the leaves, but this manner tends to have a bitterer flavor. A much better flavored brew is made through the use of the dried leaves. When fresh leaves are picked, they are carefully washed and then air dried in a sunny location. Packed in airtight containers, these leaves can remain viable for up to one year. Beyond that, the essential oils of the leaves are lost. Few companies deal in the dried leaves, so obtaining them online will likely be the best choice.
To make the tea, a small portion of the dried leaves is added to an infuser, followed by adding water that has been brought to a boil and then cooled for one minute. Allow the mixture to stand for ten minutes; after which, it can be poured directly into your cup and enjoyed. It will have a light, clear amber color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Though many may be unaware of the tea made from the humble olive leaf, it is a product that is widely touted for its beneficial properties that go back in history for many centuries. Even after sampled, it is the delicious flavor and not its healthy attributes that most will remember.