Olive Leaf Tea

What Is Olive Leaf Tea?

Olive leaf tea is a herbal tea made by drying and crushing the leaves of the olive tree, then steeping them in hot water. It is a traditional drink known in the Mediterranean basin for centuries.

Its color is light greenish-yellow, its taste carries a mildly bitter, herbal note; this bitterness comes from a natural phenolic compound in the leaf called oleuropein.

Nutritional Value of Olive Leaf Tea

1 cup of brewed olive leaf tea contains about 2 kcal of energy; it is caffeine-free and carries polyphenolic compounds specific to olive leaf (such as oleuropein). Values vary with brewing time and are approximate.

How Should Olive Leaf Tea Be Consumed?

Olive leaf tea is consumed as part of a balanced diet, in moderate amounts like other herbal teas.

This information is general; olive leaf tea is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. People taking medication, pregnant/breastfeeding people, and those taking blood pressure medication are advised to consult their physician before consuming it.

How to Choose Olive Leaf Tea?

A good olive leaf tea is one with a light green-gray color, a mildly fresh-herbal smell, and no absorbed moisture.

• The color should be light green-gray, not darkened-moldy
• The smell should be mildly fresh-herbal, not moldy
• The leaves should be broken but not turned to dust

How to Store Olive Leaf Tea?

Dried olive leaf can be stored for a few months in a closed container in a dry, dark cupboard; keeping it away from light preserves its aroma.

Using Olive Leaf Tea in the Kitchen

Olive leaf tea is most often steeped in boiling water for a few minutes and drunk directly; it can be sweetened with honey or lemon if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can olive leaf tea be made at home?

Yes; clean olive leaves are dried in the shade and crumbled, then steeped in boiling water for a few minutes.

Can olive leaf tea be drunk every day?

Moderate consumption generally causes no issue, but for regular high-volume consumption or drug interactions, it is recommended to consult a physician.

Is olive leaf tea found in Turkey?

It can easily be found in herbalists, spice shops, and stores selling herbal tea; since Turkey is a major olive-producing country, it is a locally sourced product.