Spring is a time of light and color. After the winter, the temperatures become milder, the days become longer, and all this invites you to go out and enjoy yourself. However, those who suffer from those allergies so characteristic of these dates, do not see the spring season in such an idyllic way.
Rhinitis, dry cough, watery eyes… Spring allergies can make a person’s day-to-day life very difficult. That’s why we think it’s fantastic news that several studies have concluded that certain components of EVOO can be used to fight the annoying symptoms of allergies.
Did you know that, according to several studies, EVOO could help improve the symptoms of allergies? Olive extract and polyphenols could have antihistamine properties. This, together with the anti-inflammatory capacity of extra virgin olive oil (remember! We told you about it here), makes EVOO a great ally against the adverse effects of allergies.
Olive extracts have already been shown to act as antihistamines by blocking histamine receptors. This, together with their anti-inflammatory properties, has led researchers to speculate that they may be able to curb allergy symptoms.
According to several studies (the latest published in Immunobiology), the hydroxytyrosol in olive oil extract has been shown to be the most potent antioxidant in nature in vitro. Therefore, its ability to elicit an immune response to one of the main allergens of Parietaria pollen (Par j 1) – one of the most common allergenic molecules in the Mediterranean region – was investigated in healthy volunteers.
Studies in this regard are not yet complete. According to the researchers, more is needed to develop and establish what pharmacological mechanisms can be developed to use hydroxytyrosol as a nutrient for allergy prevention, in addition to its already approved use as a preventive element against oxidation.
Pending further research, the conclusions reached by the professionals who have carried out the studies already published can be summarized as “expanding the opportunities for therapeutic applications of olive oil to a completely new horizon“.
Good news then, for all those who suffer in the spring season from these uncomfortable symptoms caused by allergies. A new step to fight and prevent them! For our part, we are proud that olive oil contributes its grain of sand in this advance.
