Olive leaf tea has been consumed in the Mediterranean for over 5000 years. Used for centuries in the
countries surrounding the Mediterranean it was recognized as having value as a calmative, and fever
fighter.
Here we just grow the olive trees for fun. Of-course, George is already dreaming up of having an olive oil press… while he dreams I’ll harvest the leaves for tea.
According to healthyandnaturalworld.com one of the phytochemicals found in olive leaves is called oleuropein, and this is one of the main active ingredients responsible for it’s health benefits. Among the many benefits to adding olive leaf tea into your diet… these my top two favorites:
1. Inhibition and prevention of cancer (some studies have shown protective capabilities against breast cancer – especially at the early stage in the growth cycle).
2. Building bone (prevents the loss of bone density and fights osteoporosis).
Olive Branch symbolism: The Dove and the Olive Branch. -The symbolism originates from Holy Scripture, where it is told that a dove was released from the Ark by Noah, but ‘found no rest for the sole of her foot and she returned; the second time she came back and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off’ (Genesis 8:8-12). In this way, the dove and its olive branch carry the dual symbolism of the messenger (from the dove) as well as purity, peace and innocence (from the olive branch).
Preparation of tea: (best use from dry olive leaves)
Place 10 to 15 dried leaves per cup of water into a container and boil for 5 minutes
Remove from the stove and let the leaves steep in the boiled water for 2?3 minutes until the fluid
becomes a beautiful golden tan color and serve. Add sugar if you wish and drink warm but the tea is
delicious cold as well.
