African Journal of Biomedical Research
March 2025
TLDR Olive leaves extract may help treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
This study investigated the effects of ethanolic extract of olive leaves on testosterone propionate-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in 36 male rats. The treatment with olive leaves extract at doses of 300, 400, and 500 mg/kg significantly reduced prostate index, serum PSA, DHT, and testosterone levels compared to the positive control group. Histopathological improvements in the prostate gland were observed, and rats treated with olive leaves showed increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. These results suggest that olive leaves extract may be an effective therapy for BPH, potentially inhibiting 5α-reductase activity similar to drugs like finasteride, due to its rich phytochemical content.