Extra Virgin Olive Oil is rich in a variety of active compounds.1 It is important to note that the level of bioactive compounds found in an Extra Virgin Olive Oil will depend on the olive cultivar, the environment and technological factors.1 Some brands of Extra Virgin Olive Oil will list the levels of some bioactive compounds on the nutritional panel. Typically, the fresher the oil, the higher the levels of bioactive compounds.2
In summary, the following major compounds are found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The descriptions below provide a top-level summary of the evidence of these compounds when consumed in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The activity and actions of these compounds can also vary when found in other parts of the olive tree, such as the olive leaf.
1. Phenolic acids and derivatives
The phenolic profile of the olive fruit changes over time, as it grows and develops.3 These compounds act as potent natural antioxidants (which scavenge free radical species), and are found naturally in Extra Virgin Olive Oil.3 The phenolic profile of Extra Virgin Olive Oil is one of the key reasons for the superior health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil when compared with refined oils (which are devoid of, or very low in natural antioxidants).2 Specifically, hydroxytyrosol has been shown to inhibit low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation.3
2. Secoiridoids
Oleuropein derivatives
Oleuropein (and derivatives) are potent antioxidants which scavenge free radical species in the body.4,5 Some evidence suggests that oleuropein can reduce LDL oxidation.6,7 In addition, oleuropein has potential as an antiangiogenic in cancer, with some preliminary evidence showing it may inhibit cell growth and invasiveness.8–12 It also has some antimicrobial activity.13,14
3. Ligstroside derivatives
Oleocanthal is responsible for the characteristic pharyngeal pungency stimulated by high quality Extra Virgin Olive Oils.3
Oleocanthal has been shown to have anti-inflammatory action, through inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes – COX1 and COX2 (similar to the mode of action of Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs – NSAIDs).15
4. Lignans
Lignans are phytoestrogen compounds which may have anti-cancer activity.1
5. Flavones
Although human studies are not yet completed, in vivo research shows that apigenin has some potential as a cancer chemo-preventive agent.16 Research also indicates that luteolin may have anti-inflammatory activity and play a role in cognitive disorders.17
Phytosterols have been shown to reduce the levels of plasma cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.18 There is also some evidence to suggest that phytosterols may have anti-tumor activity.18
Squalene is a triterpene acid found in Extra Virgin Olive Oil.3
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is one of the only foods to contain such high levels of squalene (approximately 0.7%).3 Squalene is an antioxidant that has been reported to have a chemoprotective effect specifically against skin cancer.3 Squalene is a major intermediate in the biosynthesis of cholesterol and may have effects to lower cholesterol levels in some individuals.3
Tocopherols, also known as vitamin E, are known to prevent lipid oxidation.18 α-tocopherol is a well-known antioxidant, which acts in a variety of ways to scavenge free radical species in the body.1,18
Studies suggest that hydroxyterpenic acids may have potential pharmacological effects relating to inflammation, cancer, cardiovascular pathology and vasorelaxation.2
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References