What Are Oleocanthal And Oleacein — And Why Do They Matter?
What are oleocanthal and oleacein? They are two of the most powerful polyphenols found in high-phenolic olive oil. Oleocanthal gives the oil its signature peppery sting and mimics the activity of ibuprofen by targeting COX enzymes. Oleacein is responsible for bitterness and offers potent antioxidant protection through Nrf2 and SIRT1 activation 1.
Together, these compounds transform olive oil from a culinary fat into a biofunctional food.
Biological Actions Of Oleocanthal And Oleacein
- Oleocanthal: Inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, helping reduce inflammatory signaling similar to NSAIDs
- Oleacein: Protects LDL from oxidation, activates antioxidant genes, and supports cellular resilience
- Synergy: The combination amplifies redox signaling and promotes homeostasis across multiple systems
If you’re asking what are oleocanthal and oleacein, think of them as nature’s therapeutic toolkit inside every spoonful of real high-phenolic olive oil.
Where To Find Oleocanthal And Oleacein — And How To Use Them
- High-phenolic olive oil with D3: Delivers both compounds in clinically meaningful concentrations (>1000 mg/kg total phenols)
- Use 1 tbsp daily on salads, smoothies, or straight — avoid heat to preserve integrity
- Oleocanthal’s pungency and oleacein’s bitterness are not defects — they signal biological potency
Oils lacking these phenols may still be “extra virgin,” but lack therapeutic value 2.
Summary: Two Phenols. One Powerful Pathway.
Oleocanthal and oleacein are what make real high-phenolic olive oil functional — not just flavorful.
Tip: That cough from oleocanthal and the dryness from oleacein? That’s functional intelligence you can taste.
- Beauchamp et al., Nature, 2005); (Karkoula et al., J Agric Food Chem, 2012); (Cicerale et al., Molecules, 2012[↩]
- Covas et al., Ann Intern Med, 2006); (Visioli & Bernardini, Front Nutr, 2020); (Kontogianni et al., Maturitas, 2013[↩]
