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Olea europaea Olive Evergreen tree (1 Page of 5) The Olea europaea plant species is found in S. Europe - Mediterranean. It is a member of the Oleaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Olive. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Olea europaea Common Name: Olive Family: Oleaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 10 Mature Width: 8 Habitat: Woods and scrub in dry rocky places[50].
Medicinal Information: The oil from the pericarp is cholagogue, a nourishing demulcent, emollient and laxative[4, 21, 240]. Eating the oil reduces gastric secretions and is therefore of benefit to patients suffering from hyperacidity[238]. The oil is also used internally as a laxative and to treat peptic ulcers[4, 238]. It is used externally to treat pruritis, the effects of stings or burns and as a vehicle for liniments[4, 21]. Used with alcohol it is a good hair tonic and used with oil of rosemary it is a good treatment for dandruff[4, 21]. The oil is also commonly used as a base for liniments and ointments[21].
The leaves are antiseptic, astringent, febrifuge and sedative[4, 21]. A decoction is used in treating obstinate fevers, they also have a tranquilizing effect on nervous tension and hypertension[4, 238]. Experimentally, they have been shown to decrease blood sugar levels by 17 - 23%[240]. Externally, they are applied to abrasions[238].
The bark is astringent, bitter and febrifuge[4, 240]. It is said to be a substitute for quinine in the treatment of malaria[240].
In warm countries the bark exudes a gum-like substance that has been used as a vulnerary[4].
The plant is used in Bach flower remedies - the keywords for prescribing it are 'Complete exhaustion' and 'Mental fatigue'[209].
For further Olea europaea gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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