Hydroxytyrosol (Olive Polyphenol)
Overview
Hydroxytyrosol is a potent phenolic antioxidant found in extra-virgin olive oil, particularly in early harvest oils. It is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants and exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties. Hydroxytyrosol is derived from oleuropein and tyrosol through enzymatic processes and contributes significantly to the brain health benefits of extra-virgin olive oil. It works synergistically with other olive oil polyphenols, including oleuropein, oleocanthal, and oleacein, to support neuroprotective effects, mitochondrial function, and overall antioxidant defenses.
Recipes
5 recipes containing this substance
Ginger Yogurt and Blueberries
An Anti-inflammatory polyphenol-rich breakfast bowl with high fibre. Start the day with anti-inflammatory gingerols and omega 3 nuts, blueberry polyphenols, a fibre from steel rolled oats. Great to set up dopamine for focus and attention.
Mitochondrial Power Bowl
A nitrate-rich, polyphenol-dense bowl supporting mitochondrial function, ATP generation, and metabolic resilience
Rocket Lentil Avocado Midday Salad (Gut-Supporting)
Polyphenol-rich salad supporting SIRT1 activation and microbiome synchronisation
Salmon Bowl-pistachio-cacao-nibs
A functional ECS-supportive bowl combining salmon, avocado, pistachios, cacao nibs, and early harvest olive oil to help preserve anandamide tone, improve membrane lipid composition, and support gut–brain signaling.
Turkey Wing Stew
A collagen-rich, glycine-heavy slow-cooked stew made from affordable turkey wings — supporting gut, joint, sleep, and brain health.
Foods
2 foods containing this substance
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Polyphenol-rich oil with CoQ10, hydroxytyrosol, and anti-inflammatory properties
Olive Oil (Early Harvest)
Premium extra virgin olive oil with enhanced CoQ10, oleuropein, and polyphenol content from early harvest timing
Biological Mechanisms and Implications
| Biological Target | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|
| Inflammation | Strong anti-inflammatory profile; contributes to neuroprotective effects of extra-virgin olive oil | |
| Oxidative Stress | Potent antioxidant polyphenol; supports antioxidant defenses |
References
- Extra-virgin olive oil contains hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and other polyphenols with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory profiles
- Early harvest extra-virgin olive oil has higher levels of CoQ10, oleuropein, and polyphenols, making it valuable for precision dietary strategies