Olive Oil for Blood Pressure: The EVOO Advantage
High-polyphenol extra virgin olive oil supports healthier blood pressure by improving endothelial function, boosting nitric oxide, and lowering oxidative stress.
Quick Answer
Yes—research suggests high-polyphenol EVOO can modestly lower blood pressure, especially when it replaces refined carbs or saturated fats. The effect is driven by polyphenols (like oleocanthal and hydroxytyrosol) that protect blood vessels and enhance nitric oxide signaling.
Why EVOO Helps Blood Pressure
1) Better Endothelial Function
The endothelium is the inner lining of your blood vessels. Polyphenols improve its ability to relax and expand—key for healthy BP.
2) Higher Nitric Oxide Availability
EVOO’s antioxidant compounds reduce oxidative stress, preserving nitric oxide so arteries stay flexible and responsive.
3) Lower Inflammation
Oleocanthal acts on inflammatory pathways, helping reduce low-grade inflammation that contributes to hypertension.
How Much EVOO for Blood Pressure?
Clinical studies most often use 30–50ml daily (about 2–3 tablespoons). That’s enough to deliver meaningful polyphenol doses—especially when the oil tests above 500 mg/kg.
- ✓Take it with food to improve absorption and reduce GI discomfort.
- ✓Consistency beats timing—daily use is more important than morning vs night.
- ✓Replace, don’t add—swap EVOO for butter, mayo, or refined oils.
Choosing the Right EVOO
Look for these signals
- • Harvest date within the last 12 months
- • Lab-verified polyphenols (HPLC or qNMR)
- • Early-harvest, peppery taste
Avoid these red flags
- • No harvest date on the label
- • Clear plastic bottles
- • “Light” or “pure” olive oil (not EVOO)
Want the Highest-Polyphenol Picks?
We test and rank EVOOs by lab-verified polyphenol content, harvest date, and value. If blood pressure support is your goal, start with our top-ranked oils.
View Top Ranked Oils →