Utilization of Wild Olive Leaves: Traditional Use and Scientific Research

In addition to its economic importance, the olive tree holds significant sociocultural value for Mediterranean peoples. Olive oil and olive leaves have been used empirically in traditional medicine, and modern scientific studies have confirmed their benefits due to their high antioxidant content. With the aim of highlighting the wild variety (oleaster)-which, according to archaeological and molecular biology studies, is believed to be the ancestor of the cultivated variety-this book compiles the knowledge acquired about this tree, including its traditional uses and scientific research. The second part presents our research on leaves harvested from various regions of Kabylie (Algeria). The objective was to determine the optimal conditions for greater yield. To this end, polyphenolic extracts obtained under different conditions were tested individually or in combination for their biological effects. Considerable reducing power was observed, as was anti-staphylococcal activity. When tested for its ability to interact with proteins, the extract showed greater affinity for BSA than for ovalbumin.