Olive leaf extract, a dietary supplement made from olive tree leaves, is studied mainly for blood pressure and blood sugar. Its most consistent signal is a small drop in blood pressure when readings run above normal, though not in every trial. Effects on cholesterol, blood fats and blood sugar are inconsistent. Reported side effects are uncommon and mild; added lowering alongside blood-pressure or diabetes medicines is the main consideration. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Home blood pressure | <120/80 mmHg | Expected to change; also a safety check for over-lowering |
| LDL cholesterol | <100 mg/dL | Expected to change (possible small decrease) |
| Triglycerides | <150 mg/dL | Expected to change (possible small decrease) |
| Fasting glucose | 70–99 mg/dL | Safety check for hypoglycemia with diabetes drugs; possible change |
| HbA1c | 4.0–5.6% | Expected to change (diabetes only); safety check with glucose-lowering drugs |
| Creatinine with eGFR | >60 mL/min/1.73 m² | Safety check: severe kidney disease excludes use |
| Bone mineral density (DXA) | No established target; track change from own baseline T-score | Expected to change (bone use only) |
| INR (warfarin users only) | No established target for the extract; track change from own stable baseline | Safety check for altered warfarin effect |
Cadence: Baseline before starting (a week of home blood-pressure readings plus blood tests). Home blood pressure weekly for the first 4 weeks, then monthly; lipids, glucose and HbA1c at 8–12 weeks, then every 6–12 months; kidney function every 6–12 months with heart or kidney disease or on diuretics; INR 1–2 weeks after starting or stopping; repeat bone scan only after 1–2 years.