How to Make Olive Leaf Extract

We all know that olive oil is one of the good oils. It helps to actually lower your bad cholesterol levels and raise the good. However, did you know that olive leaf extract is purported to have numerous health benefits as well? Olive leaf extract contains oleuropein, which is metabolized into elenolic acid---which has antimicrobial properties---by the digestive system. Health-care professionals are starting to see the promise in olive leaf extract as a treatment for common ailments, such as colds and flu, as well as certain chronic ailments, such as sinus infections. You can make your own olive leaf extract, using olive leaves from your own tree or by ordering them from various websites.

Things You'll Need

• 8 oz. of olive leaves
• 1 gallon of water
• Crock-pot
• Cooking thermometer
• Glass container with lid

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Instructions

• 1

  Put 8 oz. of olive leaves and pour 1 gallon of water into your crock-pot. Turn the heat on "low." (You want the heat to be around 175-185 degrees Fahrenheit. Because crock-pots can differ, use the cooking thermometer to check the heat after the crock-pot has warmed. Adjust the settings accordingly and test again after the crock-pot has had time to reach the new temperature. This can take around 15 minutes.)

• 2

  After the crock-pot has achieved the correct temperature, cover the mixture and allow it to simmer for 12 hours. Periodically check the water level and add a little more water if needed.

• 3

  After 12 hours, turn off the crock-pot. Allow the olive leaf extract to cool for five to six hours.

• 4

  Pour the finished extract into a glass container, seal and store in your refrigerator.