Medicinal and Pharmacological Dimensions of Olea europaea L.: A Comprehensive Exploration of Bioactive Compounds and Their therapeutic Potentials

Abstract

Olea europaea possesses significant ethnopharmacological and nutritional importance. The olive tree is primarily associated with numerous health benefits, including the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, reduction of blood sugar, cholesterol, and uric acid levels, as well as serving as a laxative, mouthwash, and vasodilator. It has also been utilized in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis, inflammation, diarrhoea, respiratory and urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and asthma, while combating inflammation and inhibiting microbial growth. Besides fruits, leaves of the plants have also medicinal attributes. Olive-based products, particularly extra virgin olive oil and leaf extracts, are rich in phenolic compounds such as oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and oleic acid, which exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. Increasing pharmacological evidence suggests that these compounds play multifaceted roles in mitigating oxidative stress, modulating lipid metabolism, and enhancing vascular function. Emerging studies also reveal their potential in neuroprotection, metabolic regulation, and cancer prevention through modulation of signaling pathways. Overall, the cumulative scientific communication reaffirm that olive and its extracts hold remarkable promise in integrative medicine for promoting health, longevity, and disease prevention.