Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology ofOlea europaea(Olive)

Abstract

Aim of the Review. To grasp the fragmented information available on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Olea europaea to explore its therapeutic potential and future research opportunities. Material and Methods. All the available information on O. europaea was collected via electronic search (using Pubmed, Scirus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) and a library search. Results. Ethnomedical uses of O. europaea are recorded throughout the world where it has been used to treat various ailments. Phytochemical research had led to the isolation of flavonoids, secoiridoids, iridoids, flavanones, biophenols, triterpenes, benzoic acid derivatives, isochromans, and other classes of secondary metabolites from O. europaea. The plant materials and isolated components have shown a wide spectrum of in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities like antidiabetic, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antihypertensive, anticancer, antihyperglycemic, antinociceptive, gastroprotective, and wound healing activities. Conclusions. O. europaea emerged as a good source of traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. The outcomes of phytochemical and pharmacological studies reported in this review will further expand its existing therapeutic potential and provide a convincing support to its future clinical use in modern medicine.

Effects of Olea europaea L. Leaf Metabolites on the Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Three Stored Pests, Sitophilus granarius, Tribolium confusum and Acanthoscelides obtectus

“…However, there have been some reports on insecticidal properties of the leaf extracts and its pure metabolites against various insects species [53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60]. Zia et al (2011) tested the extract of olive leaves against chickpea beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis and they found it active against the beetle [57].…”

Are Nutraceuticals Effective in Controlling Essential Hypertension?

“…The hypotensive action of olive extract is perhaps through a Ca 2+ channel antagonistic effect [10].…”

Identification and validation of novel EST-SSR markers in olives

“…In addition to high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, it contains biologically active molecules, including biophenols, squalene, tocopherols, and phytosterols, which have many positive effects on human health (Ali Hashmi et al, 2015;Ghanbari et al, 2012) and are the major contributors to the unique taste of the oil (Cicerale et al, 2009). Consequently, the investigation of genes responsible for the synthesis of these molecules is essential to improve olive oil quality and develop new varieties.…”