For centuries, the olive tree (olea europaea) has been revered for its health properties. More recently, olive leaf extract has gained popularity as a natural supplement for both humans and pets. But can olive leaf extract benefit your dog? Let’s explore the potential of this botanical remedy.

The Power of Oleuropein

Olive leaf extract boasts a high concentration of oleuropein, an active ingredient with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. These qualities may help support your dog’s immune system by targeting pathogens like bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Olive leaf extract also boasts properties that may help maintain a normal inflammatory response, potentially aiding allergies and itchy skin.

Natural Support for Overall Health

Many dog owners turn to olive leaf extract for its potential immune support benefits. Early research suggests it may help with a variety of canine health concerns, including:

• Urinary tract infections: Olive leaf extract’s natural properties support a healthy urinary tract.
• Yeast infections: The antifungal properties of olive leaf extract may help combat yeast overgrowth, a common culprit in canine skin issues.
• Gut health: By promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria, olive leaf extract may aid digestion and support overall gut health.
• High blood pressure and high blood sugar: There is anecdotal evidence and clinical studies suggesting that olive leaf may support normal blood pressure levels and blood sugar levels within normal ranges.

Researchers also found that the polyphenols present in olive leaves have a positive impact on human health and “are potent antioxidant and radical scavengers” that support a healthy inflammatory response. The same study found that it can be used in humans to support stomach and intestinal pain relief, malaria-induced fever, alopecia, rickets, and sciatica, among others.

Important Considerations

While olive leaf extract is generally safe for most dogs, it’s always wise to consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement to your pet’s routine. Olive leaf extract may interact with certain medications and induce side effects. It’s not recommended for pregnant or nursing dogs.

Choosing the Right Olive Leaf Extract for Your Dog

Olive leaf extract comes in various forms, including tinctures, capsules, olive leaf powders, and soft chews. Look for products specifically formulated for dogs and discuss dosage with your veterinarian. Opt for organic olive leaf extract whenever possible to avoid unnecessary pesticides or herbicides.

Olive Leaf Extract in Skin + Allergy Care Soft Chews

JustFoodForDogs created high-quality dog supplements for seasonal allergies to help support healthy immune function. It’s a powerful blend of superfoods, omega-rich algae oil, olive leaf extract, and antioxidants. The yummy soft chews help your furry friend manage skin issues related to seasonal allergies with less discomfort.

Pre and probiotics are included to not only maintain the proper immune response to allergens but also support a healthy gut.

🫒 Benefits of Olive Beyond the Extract

Olive oil, derived from the fruit of the olive tree, is another way to incorporate the goodness of olives into your dog’s diet. A drizzle of olive oil over your dog’s food may provide a healthy dose of antioxidants to fight free radicals and promote a shiny coat.

Olive Leaf for Dogs

Olive leaf extract holds promise as a natural supplement to support your dog’s health. From healthy immune system function to gut health, this botanical remedy may offer a range of benefits.

Remember, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplement, including olive leaf extract. With proper guidance, you can explore the potential health benefits of olive for your furry friend.

This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.

Resources

“Olive Leaf | VCA Animal Hospitals.” n.d. Vca. Accessed June 27, 2024. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/olive-leaf.

Barbaro, Barbara, Gabriele Toietta, Roberta Maggio, Mario Arciello, Mirko Tarocchi, Andrea Galli, and Clara Balsano. 2014. “Effects of the Olive-Derived Polyphenol Oleuropein on Human Health.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences 15 (10): 18508–24. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms151018508.

Mohammad Ali Esfandiary, Ali Reza Khosravi, Sepideh Asadi, Donya Nikaein, Jalal Hassan, and Aghil Sharifzadeh. 2024. “Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Properties of Oleuropein against Escherichia Coli and Fluconazole-Resistant Isolates of Candida Albicans and Candida Glabrata.” BMC Microbiology 24 (1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12866-024-03305-5.