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Oleocanthal:coincidence that science changed
Sometimes a scientific discovery begins with something very simple. For Dr. Gary Beauchamp, it was a sip of olive oil. Beauchamp is an American scientist and expert in taste research. During a molecular nutrition conference in Sicily, he was invited to dinner with a local family. On the table sat a special extra virgin olive oil. After taking a sip, he felt a sharp tingle in the back of his throat. Not unpleasant, but noticeable. The taste immediately reminded him of a substance he knew from his lab in Philadelphia: ibuprofen.
Back in the US, he tested the oil and discovered that the tingling came from a natural molecule he hadn't encountered before. He named it Oleocanthal: a contraction of "oleo" (oil), "acanth" (tingling), and "al" for aldehyde, a chemical structure. Thus began the story of one of the most intriguing substances in olive oil.
What excactly is Oleocanthal ?
Oleocanthal is a polyphenol: a plant compound naturally found in high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). It's best known for its sharp, peppery aftertaste; the famous "stingy throat" you experience with a truly good olive oil. But more importantly, it has strong anti-inflammatory properties, comparable to ibuprofen, but naturally and without side effects.
Laboratory studies show that approximately four tablespoons of EVOO rich in Oleocanthal can have the same effect as a 250 mg dose of ibuprofen, at least in a laboratory setting.
What is Oleocanthal good for ?
Oleocanthal has been extensively studied over the past decade. More than 100 scientific studies show a wide range of potential health benefits, including:
> Anti-inflammatory effect in chronic inflammatory diseases
> Neuroprotective effect, possibly relevant in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease
> Anti-carcinogenic properties - research is being conducted into the effect on cancer cells
> Support of the heart and blood vessels
> Positive effect on type 2 diabetes
While these results are promising, scientists emphasize that more research is needed to fully understand how it works in humans.
Is Oleocanthal safe?
Yes. Oleocanthal is a natural substance in extra virgin olive oil and, unlike many medications, has no known side effects with normal use. Choosing an oil high in oleocanthal is choosing more than just taste: you're choosing a product with a potential protective effect on your body. As part of a varied diet, it can contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases, including inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders..
Want to know more?
More than 100 scientific publications have now been published on oleocanthal. Want to read more? Please see section Knowledge sharing