Cem Aydogan of Frutarom Health and colleagues conducted a pilot trial with 20 identical twin pairs who had increased blood pressure, or mild hypertension. Individuals were either given placebo capsules or capsules containing doses of 500 mg or 1,000 mg of olive leaf extract EFLA 943.
Identical twins were used to help keep the data consistent, because genetic differences can make people respond differently to the same treatments.
Pairs of twins were assigned to different treatments and took the extract or a placebo for eight weeks. Data about their lifestyles also was collected. A total of 40 people participated, aged 18 to 60; 28 women and 12 men.
The results indicated that those who took the highest daily dosage of olive leaf extract (1,000 milligrams) received the highest benefits.
The study confirmed that olive leaf extract EFLA 943 has anti-hypertensive properties in humans. Results are published in the September issue of Phytotherapy Research.
