European Olive, Or Olive Tree

Olive - Oleaceae. Pharmacy name: olive oil - Olivae oleum (formerly: Oleum Olivarum).

Botanical description.

The original form of this evergreen plant is shrubby, the cultivated form is tree-like, 6-8 m in height. The leaves are leathery, pubescent on the underside. The flowers are small, yellowish-white, fragrant.

Fatty oil is obtained from dark blue fruits (olives). Its homeland is the eastern Mediterranean, but the olive is cultivated in many countries on all continents.

Active ingredients.

The oil is composed of butyric acid glycerides and other fatty acids. The leaves contain secoiridoids and flavonoids.

Application.

Olive oil is used in the manufacture of ointments, emulsions, liniments and lotions. Olive leaf tea is prescribed for high blood pressure.