The Health Benefits of Parsley
Most people are familiar with parsley as a food garnish that's used as a mere decoration and usually discarded. But, did you know that when it comes to herbs that promote superior body cleansing, parsley is one that’s high on the list? Toxins, chemicals, and toxic metals – none stand a chance against this nutritional powerhouse. [1] It’s rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and ascorbic acid, and its benefits have been known for centuries.
How Parsley Helps Cleanse Your Body
Similarly to cilantro, parsley acts as a natural diuretic. [2] Your urine is a route through which toxins are expelled from your body, so incorporating parsley to help this natural process along may prove useful for cleansing. Parsley is also a strong liver supporter, particularly in the presence of diseases like diabetes and liver disease. [3] [4] In fact, there’s evidence to suggest that parsley can help benefit other concerns like IBS or a UTI. Its high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K stimulates immune-bolstering properties in the body, potentially guarding against harmful organisms. [5] One caveat is to avoid parsley during pregnancy, as it’s been associated with promoting menstrual flow.
Other Health Benefits of Parsley
Parsley is soothing to irritated tissue and has potent antioxidant capabilities. Its naturally occurring eugenol content may also help reduce blood glucose levels. It is incredibly rich in vitamin K as well as A, C, and several B vitamins. [6] Some preliminary research shows parsley contains something called “apigenin,” which has shown positive effects on supporting immune health. [7] Its fiber content may also help with regularity.
What’s the Best Source of Parsley?
Finding a good source of parsley is like finding a good source of any other herb. It’s easy to grow if you’ve got a garden space, and you must absolutely purchase organic if you will be consuming it. The herb holds onto pesticides more so than other foods, so always seek out one that has the USDA organic certification. Parsley is also available as a supplement – usually dried or concentrated. We’ve included it in the formulation of Heavy Metal & Chemical Cleanse our solution for chemical detoxing. If you’re looking for a way to harness the cleansing abilities of parsley, Heavy Metal & Chemical Cleanse is a great product with strong reviews.
References (7)
- University of Missouri-Columbia. Parsley, celery carry crucial component for fight against breast cancer, study suggests. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 9 May 2011.
- Kreydiyyeh Sl, Usta J. Diuretic effect and mechanism of action of parsley. J Ethnopharmacol. 2002 Mar;79(3):353-7.
- Tunali T1, Yarat A, Yanardağ R, Ozçelik F, Ozsoy O, Ergenekon G, Emekli N. Effect of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) on the skin of STZ induced diabetic rats. National Center for Biotechnology Information. USA.gov, 1999.
- Srinivasan S, Sathish G, Jayanthi M, Muthukumaran J, Muruganathan U, and V. Ramachandran. Ameliorating effect of eugenol on hyperglycemia by attenuating the key enzymes of glucose metabolism in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. National Center for Biotechnology Information. USA.gov, 2014.
- Holmannova D, Kolackova M, Krejsek J. Vitamin C and its physiological role with respect to the components of the immune system. Vnitr Lek. 2012 Oct;58(10):743-9.
- Peters, Cornelius. The proud plant Parsley or Petroselinum crispum is more than just a food. Academia.edu. Academia.edu, 2015.
- Sanjeev Shukla and Sanjay Gupta. Apigenin: A Promising Molecule for Cancer Prevention. Pharm Res. 2010 Jun; 27(6): 962-978. doi: 10.1007/s11095-010-0089-7.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.