health and nutritional benefits of Parsley

Origin, Distribution and composition

Parsley is the native of Southern Europe. It can be grown throughout the tropics, but tends to decay rather quickly near the equator.

There are two types of parsley one group is with plain leaves and another with curly leaves, the flat leave has more robust flavour and the plain leaf is much milder.

Analysis of parsley shows it to consist of moisture 74.6%, protein 5.9%, fat 1%, mineral 3.2%, fibre 1.8%, carbohydrates 13.5% per 100g. It's minerals and vitamin contents are calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin C.

Parsley contains a glucoside apiin and an essential oil which contains apiole. 

Nutrition and healing properties of parsley

Parsley is rich in ascorbic acid and hence is a good blood cleanser. It increases the secretion and Discharge of urine and relieve flatulence.

Raw parsley has a metabolic property and helps in the normal functioning of adrenal and thyroid glands.

1. Digestive disorders

Parsley aids digestion and helps prevent the formation of gas within the stomach and intestines. It is one of the most popular remedies for indigestion. A couple of sprigs of fresh herb or a quarter tsp of dried herb can be taken with a glass of water in this condition.

2. Genito-urinary disorders

Parsley is "excellent for the genitourinary tract, it is a natural diuretic, it increases urination and helps in and prevents the formation of kidney stones.  It also helps in albuminuria, nephritis and other kidney trouble.

3. HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Parsley contains antioxidants carotenoids which helps to maintain the blood vessels, particularly the capillaries and arteries system, it is thus very useful in high blood pressure and also in lowering cholesterol. it may be taken as a beverage by simmering gently in water for a few minutes, several times daily.

4. EYE DISORDERS

Parsley contains vitamin A, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin which helps in eye health. Raw parsley juice, mixed with carrot juice, is effective and all ailments connected with the eyes and the optic nerves. Is the good for week eyes, ulceration of the cornea, cataracts, conjunctivitis and ophthalmia and sluggishness of the pupil.

5. menstrual DISORDERS

The herb is effective remedy for scanty menstruation. it also assists in the regulation of monthly periods, this action is due to the presence of an apiole and myristicin, which helps in the production of female sex hormone - oestrogen. It also helps in relieving cramps and menstrual irregularities. Drinking parsley juice, especially when combined with beet, carrot and cucumber juices helps in menstrual disorders.

6. bad breath

Parsley is a very effective remedy for bad breath. Boil two cups of water with coarsely chopped parsley springs and 2 or 3 whole cloves or a quarter teaspoon ground clove, the mixture has to be stirred frequently while cooling. It is then strain and can be used as a mouthwash or gargle several times a day.

7. Bone Health

Parsley is rich in vitamin K, calcium, magnesium and potassium, which are all important for bone health. These vitamin and minerals help in bone growth as well as helps in increasing bone mineral density.

8. Anti-bacterial and immunity booster

Essential oils like apiole and myristicin present in parsley, has an antibacterial effect and an antioxidant apigenin present helps in increasing immunity by reducing inflammation.   

methods of use

Parsley can be added freely to salads and soups. Uncooked parsley is palatable and easy to digest when used by itself or with other green vegetables like cabbage or other root vegetables. it can also be dried and used.  Parsley can be taken as a beverage, simmering it gently for a few minutes or can be used as a delicious dip

 SAFETY

It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional or work with them closely, if you are considering using any herb to treat those symptoms.

Raw parsley juice is an extremely potent remedy. It should never be taken in quantities exceeding 60ml at a time, especially when mixed with large quantities of carrot or other raw vegetable juice as such as celery, lettuce or spinach.



HERBS & SPICES

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