The Oleocanthal Molecule: What is It and Why It's Important
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Have you ever heard of oleocanthal? It's a natural phenolic molecule found only in extra virgin olive oil with remarkable benefits. Scientists and nutritionists believe that the oleocanthal molecule could be the key to unlocking the potential of treating various health concerns naturally.
In this blog from Oleocan, our team will take a closer look at the oleocanthal molecule and why it's so important.
Table of Contents:
- What is the Oleocanthal Molecule Exactly?
- Getting to Know the Molecular Structure of Oleocanthal
- How Does the Oleocanthal Molecule Work?
- Oleocanthal: Why It’s Important
- Exploring the Benefits of Oleocanthal
- The Role of Oleocanthal in Our Diet
- Conclusion
People Also Ask:
What are the properties of oleocanthal?
In vitro, oleocanthal has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Like traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it can act as an inhibitor for cyclooxygenase (COX).
Is oleocanthal a polyphenol?
Yes! Oleocanthal is perhaps the most important polyphenol due to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It was first discovered when Dr. Gary Beauchamp tested alternative ibuprofen solutions with extra virgin olive oil.
What is the Oleocanthal Molecule Exactly?
The oleocanthal molecule is a type of polyphenol, a group of plant-based compounds packed with powerful antioxidants and potential health benefits. Specifically, oleocanthal molecules are found in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO).
The molecule known as oleocanthal acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Additionally, oleocanthal is known to provide numerous health benefits, such as promoting cardiovascular and cognitive health and preventing cellular damage.
Getting to Know the Molecular Structure of Oleocanthal
The oleocanthal molecule is made up of two distinct parts:
- an alcohol group
- an ester group
When these two components are combined, they form an ester linkage, which makes the molecule more stable. The structure of the oleocanthal molecule also contains several hydroxyl groups that give it its anti-inflammatory properties.
How Does the Oleocanthal Molecule Work?
Oleocanthal molecules work by inhibiting certain enzymes that are responsible for inflammation. These specific enzymes, known as COX-1 and COX-2, can also be linked to pain associated with chronic inflammatory diseases.
When we consume food or supplements containing oleocanthal, it enables our bodies to reduce inflammation and inhibit the leading causes of inflammation. Because oleocanthal is a potent polyphenol, the molecule naturally contains powerful antioxidants which help protect healthy cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Oleocanthal’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and other notable benefits make it an incredibly promising option for preventing disease and oxidative stress.
Oleocanthal: Why It’s Important
The antioxidant properties of oleocanthal are beneficial to your overall health because its antioxidant agents help fight off free radicals in the body. When left unchecked, free radicals can cause damage to healthy cells, proteins, and DNA. Cellular damage can lead to serious illnesses such as cancer and heart disease.
Oleocanthal’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce inflammation in the body, making it easier for us to recover from injury or illness quicker. Since its discovery in the 1990s, studies have shown that oleocanthal can even kill specific cancer cells linked to leukemia and other cancers.
Exploring the Benefits of Oleocanthal
Oleocanthal has a variety of potential health benefits, including the following:
Antioxidant Properties – Oleocanthal exhibits antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage. Antioxidants can help reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It can also help improve skin health and protect eyes from age-related degenerative concerns like AMD and cataracts.
Anti-Inflammatory Agents – Studies suggest that oleocanthal has the same anti-inflammatory effects as ibuprofen but without the side effects of taking the medication regularly. Instead, oleocanthal naturally reduces inflammation, inhibiting inflammation enzymes associated with arthritis and asthma. The oleocanthal molecule's anti-inflammatory agents have also been shown to help reduce pain associated with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Neuroprotective Properties – Research suggests that oleocanthal may also offer neuroprotective benefits, helping to protect against age-related cognitive decline. A clinical trial published in December of 2022 stated that oleocanthal found in extra virgin olive oil could help improve the blood-brain barrier (BBB), improving cognitive function and health.
The Role of Oleocanthal in Our Diet
Extra virgin olive oil is the key ingredient in Mediterranean diets, and for a good reason. Along with being rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, EVOO has the one ingredient needed to provide astonishing health benefits: oleocanthal.
Recent studies have suggested that oleocanthal is not only safe for consumption but is highly recommended to do so regularly in supplement form. Adding oleocanthal to an already well-balanced diet can help maintain good overall health.
At Oleocan, our oleocanthal supplements are derived from 100% extra virgin olive oil. That means you can obtain the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of oleocanthal without the chemicals and adverse side effects of taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
Conclusion
The discovery of the oleocanthal molecule has opened up new possibilities for understanding how this natural compound can benefit our health and wellness. Studies have already shown the promising potential of what consuming oleocanthal can do for our bodies. As research continues to explore this topic further, we may soon discover more ways this unique superfood molecule can benefit us.