Comvita

You may already be aware of the great benefits provided by olive oil – the positive effects it provides sees it used in a wide variety of ways; whether it’s in healthy Mediterranean cooking, or in skincare. There is another part of the olive tree, that has a higher level of benefits that you may not know about – it’s the Olive leaves.

During ancient times, the olive tree was commonly known as ‘the tree of life’ because of its apparent health-giving powers. More modern times have given us scope to investigate the roots behind this title, to better understand why olive leaves may have positive effects on our wellbeing.

Based on published research papers, here are some of the benefits of Olive Leaf Extract:

• Cardiovascular Support - may help to support cardiovascular health - this is supported by research published in the European Journal of Nutrition.
• High Antioxidant Support - Olive leaf has demonstrated high antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
  Olive leaf extract has gained attention for its potential health benefits, attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds like oleuropein and polyphenols.
• Antioxidant Properties: Olive leaf extract is known for its strong antioxidant properties, which can help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Heart Health: Studies suggest that olive leaf extract may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, thereby promoting cardiovascular health. The polyphenols in olive leaf extract have been shown to support healthy blood vessel function and improve circulation.
• Immune Support: Some research indicates that olive leaf extract has properties that supports the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and supporting overall immune function.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of olive leaf extract may help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Antimicrobial Activity: Olive leaf extract has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against a range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Cognitive Health: Preliminary studies suggest that olive leaf extract may have neuroprotective effects and could potentially help improve cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.
• Blood Sugar Control: Some research suggests that olive leaf extract may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance, which could be beneficial for people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
• Skin Health: The great benefits of olive leaves don’t just extend to the inside of our bodies – it’s great for the outside too. A study of Olive leaf extract has seen its effects to improve blood flow, reducing skin reddening and even providing hydration. The high levels of polyphenols within olive leaves have also been known to have positive effects on reversing damage to the skin – helping us to look healthier and younger.

Olive Leaf Extract while it might be less well known than olive oil which is extracted from the fruits, is nevertheless a precious traditional herb with therapeutic benefits that has been used for hundreds of years. 

Celebrating the Rude Health Magazine 2024 Award Winners

Rude Health Magazine, a longstanding partner in the health and wellness industry, loved by health-conscious shoppers across the country, has announced the winners of its prestigious annual awards. The votes are in and we're excited to announce our winners of  2024 Rude Health Magazine Awards. 

Weleda - Skin Food: Winner of Best Body/Beauty Product PLATINUM award

If there’s just one thing you need to take with you to a desert island, it’s this little green hero. Skin Food is a universal saviour of dry, rough skin on faces, elbows, hands, and feet – wherever you take a lot out of your skin, let Skin Food love your skin back to its best.

First formulated in 1926, we’re not surprised that Weleda Skin Food has won the top award in this category. It’s the ultimate natural multi-tasking moisturiser for dry, rough skin everywhere, and everyone should have a tube!

Comvita - Manuka Honey Soothing Elixir: Winner of Best Immune Support GOLD award

Comvita Manuka Honey Elixir with Propolis is an all-in-one immune support formula, providing zinc which contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Peppermint oil supports healthy airways and Propolis contains high levels of bioflavonoids.

This soothing elixir is a bestseller for a reason and we are delighted that this cupboard essential has been awarded in this category.  

BioCare - Children’s Complete Multinutrient: Winner of Best Kids Product GOLD award

A comprehensive formula providing the nutritional support children need for healthy growth and cognitive development, strong bones, and immunity. Providing the full spectrum of nutrients needed for children as they grow and develop, including vitamin D, calcium, iron, and zinc, this is recommended by healthcare practitioners and trusted by parents.

Suitable from 6 months, this great tasting banana flavour formulation comes in an easy to take powder; mix into drinks or sprinkle onto foods.

We are delighted that BioCare has won this prestigious award for a great all-round children’s product.

Manuka honey is a unique and highly valued type of honey that is produced by bees that pollinate the manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to New Zealand and parts of Australia. Manuka honey is renowned for its distinct flavour, dark colour and, most notably, its potential health benefits. 

Here's a comprehensive guide on manuka honey, from its production in the hive to its various health-related aspects:

1. Manuka Honey Production:

Manuka Bush Pollination: New Zealand Manuka trees are unique, as they only grow in specific parts of the world; predominantly on the country’s North Island. 

The Manuka plant only flowers 2-6 weeks of the year, which makes the presence of genuine Manuka relatively rare; this combination of the natural goodness it provides, and its rarity truly makes Manuka honey one of nature’s special gifts.

Bees collect nectar from the flowers of the manuka bush, which is known for its antibacterial properties. When the honeybee arrives to pollinate the flowers, it takes that special nectar away to their hives to store in their honeycombs.

Enzymatic Conversion: In the hive, bees add enzymes to the nectar, breaking down complex sugars into simpler sugars. They place the nectar into a honeycomb that it’s built especially to store the material.

Evaporation: Bees reduce the water content through evaporation, creating a concentrated honey. During the early period of storage, the nectar still contains a large concentration of water, so the bees will push the evaporation process along by moving their wings and then the bees will seal up the honeycomb with liquid taken from glands on their abdomen, creating what we know as ‘beeswax’.

2. Unique Characteristics: Methylglyoxal (MGO): Manuka honey contains higher levels of methylglyoxal, a compound with antimicrobial properties, compared to other types of honey.

3. UMF (Unique Manuka Factor): Quality Certification: The Unique Manuka Factor is a quality certification system that assesses the unique compounds in manuka honey, including MGO.

4. Health Benefits: Antibacterial Properties: MGO in manuka honey is believed to contribute to its potent antibacterial properties.

Wound Healing: Manuka honey is used topically for wound healing due to its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Sore Throat and Cough: Some people use manuka honey to soothe sore throats and alleviate coughs.

5. Medical-grade Manuka Honey: In Clinical Settings: Medical-grade manuka honey is sometimes used in clinical settings for wound care, particularly for hard-to-heal wounds. Specialised Manuka Honey wound gels or dressing are available for wound care. 

6. Culinary Uses: Manuka honey can be used in many ways in the kitchen, such as sweetening beverages, dressings, or desserts. It can be enjoyed on toast or as a spread and is popular as an addition to porridge!

7. Holistic Wellness: Traditional Use: In addition to its potential health benefits, manuka honey is sometimes used in holistic wellness practices or for skincare and beauty applications. 

8. Cautions and Considerations: It is not recommended to give any honey, including manuka honey, to infants under one year old.

Quality Assurance: Make sure to get your manuka honey from reputable sources with recognised certifications to ensure authenticity and quality.

Are you ready to create your own Manuka Moment? Here’s some daily rituals for wellness from Comvita Manuka Moments Daily Rituals eBook download

A morning boost in a glass: Start your day with this refreshing and nutritious smoothie recipe from Comvita!

Berry Immunity Smoothie 

Ingredients

• ½ cup frozen mixed berries
• ½ cup frozen mango
• Handful of baby spinach
• 200ml coconut water
• 2 tbs Greek yoghurt
• 1 scoop of protein powder
• 1 tsp of Comvita UMF 5+ Manuka honey

Method

1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blitz until contents are smooth in consistency.

2. Serve chilled