What is it?
Hydroxytyrosol is a potent antioxidant found in olive oil and olive leaves, known for its remarkable benefits in our products. It is a phenolic compound that plays a significant role in protecting the skin from environmental factors, irritation, and the signs of maturing skin. Its powerful antioxidant properties are demonstrated by the ORAC value study (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity). Hydroxytyrosol has an ORAC value of 27,000 compared to Vitamin C with an ORAC value of 2,100.
Where does it come from?
Hydroxytyrosol is derived from the olive tree, specifically from its fruit and leaves, and is naturally formed during the hydrolysis of oleuropein — the primary phenolic compound in olives. This conversion transforms oleuropein into hydroxytyrosol, a highly active antioxidant molecule, with the highest concentrations found in olive leaves. Our organically Eco-Certified conservation of over 30,000 olive trees is located in a mountainous region of Spain, where the leaves are carefully cultivated and harvested.
Hydroxytyrosol is obtained through a carefully controlled, environmentally friendly process designed to preserve its natural integrity. Freshly harvested leaves are gently cleaned and finely crushed to release their bioactive compounds, then processed using mechanical cold pressing, low-temperature water-based extraction, centrifugation, filtration, and gentle concentration. No organic solvents or added water are used. The result is a clean, minimally processed concentrate that maintains the purity, stability, and antioxidant potency of hydroxytyrosol and other olive polyphenols.