The Romans used the parsley plant, giving it to gladiators before their fights. Today, it is still more than just a seasoning plant. However, wild parsley must be taken care of since it can easily be mistaken for poison.
- Herbal source of chlorophyll
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- This product is Non-GMO Project Verified.
Parsley Plant Scientific Facts
- Scientific synonyms: Petroselinum crispum (Miller) Nym., Apium crispum Miller, Apium Petroselinum L.
- Other names: Common parsley, garden parsley, rock parsley.
- French: Persil.
- Spanish: Perejil.
- Environment: Native to the eastern Mediterranean region, it is cultivated almost worldwide.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves, the fruits, and the root.
Healing Properties and Uses
The parsley plant contains apiin (the same glycoside found in celery) and flavonoids, which give it diuretic properties; an essential oil rich in apiol and myristicin, to which the plant owes its emmenagogue (promotes menstruation), vasodilator, and stimulating properties. It also contains vitamins A, C, and E (tocopherol), phosphorus, calcium, iron, and sulfur.
Parsley is a healthy seasoning plant that must never be forgotten since it contains vitamins A and C. Moreover, it is a natural remedy recommended in the following cases:
- Edema (retention of liquids) and cellulite;
- Coronary insufficiency;
- Lack of urine, mild renal insufficiency;
- Lack of appetite, anemia;
- Recovery, physical exhaustion. In this case, parsley root is especially recommended;
- Dysmenorrhea (irregular, scant, or painful menstruation). The fruit is mainly used for treating these ailments;
- Apply a poultice of fresh leaves on the skin for insect bites (spiders, wasps, etc.). It calms pain and reduces any possible inflammatory reaction of the bite.
Parsley tea (made explicitly from leaves, fresh juice, and seeds) is an excellent remedy for difficult or suppressed menstruation, coughs, asthma, and dropsy. The root of the parsley plant is suitable for jaundice. It is also an excellent treatment for obstruction of the spleen and liver due to stones and difficult urination. It helps the proper functioning of the thyroid.
The plant leaves have continuously been used to remedy bladder infections, primarily when taken with equal parts marshmallow and echinacea root. However, it is a warming herb; therefore, it is best to abstain from it during inflammation and acute infections, especially of the kidneys. Parsley can also expel worms, freshen breath, and relieve gas.
Weak or sensitive people can benefit from a soup cooked with several parsley root slices. The fresh juice of the leaves (two ounces daily combined with apple juice) is a fantastic blood tonic and treatment for simple anemia. It is suitable for prostate disorders, obesity, indigestion, high blood pressure, fluid retention, and bed-wetting.
Parsley root can be used as a decoction, combined with burdock, chicory, and dandelion, making one ounce of roots per pint of water simmered for about one hour. The plant contains a substance that aids in the prevention of cancer cells. Additionally, the high chlorophyll content of the leaves makes the herb very helpful in treating cancer. The parsley seeds contain apiol, an efficient and safe emmenagogue for dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea. Combine it with black haw, buchu, and cramp bark for female issues. Fresh juice can be taken daily. Parsley juice has been used in external applications to treat blepharitis and conjunctivitis.
How to use Parsley
- Infusion
- Juice of the fresh plant. Take 2-3 spoonfuls before every meal.
- Poultices with fresh mashed leaves form a paste that will be applied to the affected area.
Infusion (leaves): Steep for five to fifteen minutes and take six ounces two to three times daily. Decoction (root and seeds): Simmer for five to fifteen minutes and take six ounces two to three times daily. Tincture: Take thirty to sixty drops (1/2 to one teaspoon) two to three times a day. Fluid Extract: Take ½ to one teaspoon two to three times daily. Fresh Juice: Take two ounces two times daily. Powder: Take two to five #0 capsules (10 to 30 grains) daily.
WARNING! Pregnant women should avoid consuming high amounts of parsley since it has specific oxytocic properties (contracts the uterus), which could cause miscarriage.
Frequently Asked Question
Does the type of parsley plant affect the health benefits?
Yes. The two main types are curly-leaf and Italian flat-leaf parsley. Flat-leaf parsley tends to have a slightly more robust flavor. While both offer benefits, studies suggest that flat-leaf parsley may possess higher levels of beneficial antioxidants, particularly the flavonoid apigenin.
Can the parsley plant help lower my risk of developing any specific cancers?
Potentially. Parsley’s significant antioxidant content (flavonoids like apigenin, myricetin, and vitamin C) has demonstrated potential anticancer properties. Research is ongoing, but promising results include possible prevention of skin cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer.
How does the parsley plant affect kidney health?
It depends. Traditionally, parsley has been used as a natural diuretic to manage high blood pressure or aid with kidney stones. However, excessive parsley intake could be problematic if you have existing kidney disease. Consultation with your doctor is essential.
How much parsley do I need to eat for health benefits?
A little goes a long way. Even small amounts sprinkled on meals offer benefits. A significant source of dietary benefits likely requires juicing or consuming it in concentrated forms like parsley tea. No single standardized recommendation exists due to varying research methods.
Is the parsley plant safe to take alongside medications?
Usually, but check with your doctor. Parsley’s high vitamin K content can interfere with the efficacy of blood thinners like Warfarin. It might also interact with other medications, so inform your doctor of your parsley intake.
Can the parsley plant help with digestive issues?
Yes. Parsley contains compounds that may have a carminative effect—reducing bloating and gas. It’s also a good fiber source, which promotes healthy digestion.
Does the parsley plant improve bone health?
It plays a role. Parsley is an excellent vitamin K source, vital for bone metabolism. While not as rich a source as leafy greens like kale, parsley still contributes to a diet supporting bone density.
Does the parsley plant help with eye health?
Yes. Parsley is a source of lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A – all essential for healthy eyes and vision. These nutrients can potentially prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Can parsley boost immunity?
It contributes. Parsley’s vitamin C, vitamin A, and various antioxidants all play a role in healthy immune function.
Is parsley safe during pregnancy?
Generally, it is in food amounts, but not more. Parsley, in typical culinary quantities, is considered safe. Excessive amounts (such as in concentrated teas) may cause uterine contractions. Discuss your specific situation with your OB-GYN.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 583. Print. [parsley plant]
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 172.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3375958/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/parsley-benefits
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/284490
- https://www.tuasaude.com/en/parsley/
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-parsley
- https://www.medicinenet.com/21_impressive_health_benefits_and_uses_of_parsley/article.htm
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API