Parsley's therapeutic uses
Parsley, a popular culinary herb native to the Mediterranean, is recognized not only for its flavor but also for its potential therapeutic uses. Rich in nutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C, parsley has been associated with various health benefits. Traditionally, it has been used to address issues such as colic, indigestion, and flatulence. Some studies suggest that its active compounds, apiol and myristicin, may contribute to its diuretic effects, potentially aiding urinary tract health and kidney stone passage.
Additionally, parsley is noted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against chronic diseases. It may also support bone health due to its vitamin K content and could assist in managing blood sugar levels, making it of interest for diabetes management. While generally considered safe when consumed in moderation, excessive intake during pregnancy should be approached with caution due to its uterine-stimulating properties. Overall, parsley can be seen as a versatile herb with a variety of proposed health benefits, although more research is needed to fully validate these claims.
Parsley's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Abortifacient, amenorrhea, colic, flatulence, indigestion, kidney stones, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, urinary tract health, bone health, blood sugar control, breath freshener, menstrual health
Overview
Parsley is a culinary herb used in many types of cooking and as a nearly universal garnish for restaurant food. Originally a native plant of the Mediterranean region, parsley is grown today throughout the world. It is a nutritious food, providing calcium, iron, carotenes, ascorbic acid, and vitamin A.
Parsley’s traditional use for inducing menstruation may be explained by evidence that apiol and myristicin, two substances contained in parsley, stimulate contractions of the uterus. Indeed, extracted apiol has been tried for the purpose of causing abortions. A tea made from parsley seeds is also a traditional remedy for colic, indigestion, and intestinal gas.
Therapeutic Dosages
The usual dose of parsley leaf or root is 6 grams (g) of dried plant per day, consumed in three doses of 2 g each, steeped in 150 ml of water. The extract of parsley leaf and root is made at a ratio of 1 g of plant to 1 milliliter (ml) of liquid and is used at a dose of 2 ml three times daily. Tea made from parsley seeds is used at a lower dosage of 2 to 3 g per day, using 1 g of seed per cup of tea.
Therapeutic Uses
Germany’s Commission E suggests the use of parsley leaf or root to relieve irritation of the urinary tract (such as may occur in bladder infections) and to aid in passing kidney stones. Although there is limited evidence that parsley is helpful for these conditions, it is believed to have a diuretic effect because of its constituents, apiol and myristicin. Diuretics would increase the flow of urine, which might help the body wash out bacteria and stones. However, only animal and small-scale human studies have evaluated whether parsley is actually beneficial for either health problem.
A test-tube study evaluated parsley extract as a topical antibiotic, finding that the extract had a weak effect against Staphylococcus bacteria. However, it did not appear to be strong enough to be practically useful for this purpose.
Several other therapeutic uses for parsley have been proposed. Parsley is rich in antioxidant properties, which protect against free radicals that can lead to chronic health conditions. It has valuable anti-inflammatory effects as well. The vitamin K in parsley may promote bone health and aid in blood clotting. Parsley has traditionally been used for digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and gas, and it may stimulate appetite. Early research suggests parley may help manage blood sugar levels, suggesting benefits for diabetes management. Parsley has been used for menstrual health and to combat bad breath.
Safety Issues
As a widely eaten food, parsley is generally regarded as safe. However, excessive quantities of parsley should be avoided during pregnancy, based on the evidence that myristicin and apiol can stimulate the uterus. Myristicin may also cross the placenta and increase the fetus's heart rate.
Parsley is known as a plant that can cause photosensitivity, an increased tendency to sunburn; this result, however, occurs from prolonged physical contact with the leaves, not from oral consumption. The maximum safe intake of parsley in young children, pregnant or nursing women, and people with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.
Important Interactions
Those persons taking lithium should use parsley only under a doctor’s supervision.
Bibliography
Ajmera, Rachael. "7 Surprising Benefits of Parsley Tea (And How to Make It)." Healthline, 7 Mar. 2019, www.healthline.com/nutrition/parsley-tea. Accessed 19 Sept. 2024.
Blumenthal, M. Herbal Medicine Expanded Commission E Monograph. Newton, Mass.: Integrative Medicine Communications, 2000.
Farzaei, Mohammad Hosein, et al. "Parsley: A Review of Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities." Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, vol. 33, no. 6, 2013, pp. 815-826, doi.org/10.1016/s0254-6272(14)60018-2. Accessed 19 Sept. 2024.
Firdous, Hina. "Parsley Health Benefits, Uses, and Its Side Effects." Lybrate, 11 Sept. 2020, www.lybrate.com/topic/benefits-of-parsley-and-its-side-effects. Accessed 19 Sept. 2024.
Hall, Elizabeth Jane. "What Can Parsley Do for You?" Wildwood Lifestyle Center, 24 Dec. 2021, wildwoodhealth.com/what-can-parsley-do-for-you/. Accessed 19 Sept. 2024.
Kreydiyyeh, S. I., and J. Usta. "Diuretic Effect and Mechanism of Action of Parsley." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 79, 2002, pp. 353-357.