Olive Leaf Extract for Acne

Acne and acne scars are one of the common skin problems, especially for teenagers. Apart from being an embarrassing skin problem, acne may also lead to scarring and pigmentation of the skin. There are various natural remedies for acne and acne scars. This include aloe vera gel, lemon juice, oatmeal and tomato pulp. Olive leaf extract is one such acne remedy, which is said to be very much effective in tackling this skin condition.

Olive Leaf Extract for Skin Care

Olive leaves have been used by humans for its medicinal properties, for a very long time. It is believed that it was the ancient Greeks, who identified the therapeutic properties of olive leaves, as they used it for treating various medical conditions, including skin problems. Olive tea was used to get relief from cough, cold and sore throat. Skin problems like rashes, warts and boils were treated with poultices made from olive leaves.

Nowadays, olive leaf extract is used for various medicinal purposes. Studies show that this extract contains high levels of antioxidants and also has anti bacterial, anti fungal and anti viral properties. It is said to have anti aging and skin softening properties too. One of the main olive leaf extract benefits for skin include its use for treating acne. This extract is available in many forms like dried leaf tea, powder, concentrate or capsule. This product is used both internally and externally.

Benefits for Acne Relief

The use of olive leaf extract for acne is mainly based on its anti bacterial properties. Some people use olive tea along with external application of this extract. As olive tea makes the body healthy and devoid of infections, the leaf extract acts on the skin and fights bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause skin problems.

The anti bacterial action of the extract is said to be very powerful, as some of the active ingredients in it can interfere with the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. It is also said that olive leaf extract ingredients are effective in killing acne-causing bacteria by damaging their outer lining. The natural flavonoids in this product makes it difficult for microorganisms to thrive. The anti-inflammatory property of this extract is beneficial in preventing the swelling and other related symptoms.

Even though, some of the users, vouch for the efficacy of olive leaf extract for acne, it is not scientifically proven. So, if you are interested in taking it orally, it will be better to seek the opinion of your doctor and act as per his instructions. This is very much necessary as olive leaf extract side effects, like lowering of blood pressure and glucose levels may happen in some of the users. Such side effects can be problematic for people, who are already having low blood pressure and/or sugar levels.

Even interactions with some prescription drugs cannot be ruled out. It will be better for pregnant woman and people with bleeding disorders to avoid use of this extract. In short, the use of olive leaf extract for acne is found to be successful in some people, but if you experience any side effects, then discontinue its use.