(Petroselinum crispum)
Description
This herb can be used as a healthy addition to salads as well as to aid a variety of ailments. Parsley possesses such nutrients as chlorophyll, potassium, phosphorus, iodine, calcium, vitamins C and A and works as a breath freshener.
It is used as a digestive aid because of its ability to ease muscle spasms or cramps. Parsley is also considered vital for coughs and asthma. And it is prescribed as a diuretic and mild laxative. Native to the eastern Mediterranean area, parsley is now cultivated around the world.
How It May Benefit You
- indigestion and gas
- congestion from coughs and colds
- asthma
- irregular menstruation
- expels worms
- freshens breath – particularly after eating garlic
- premenstrual syndrome
- fever. – Take internally.
- high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. (Take internally under the supervision of your Doctor).
Caution
Pregnant and nursing women should not take parsley juice or oil in medicinal doses, because it may stimulate uterine contractions. However, a few sprigs served as garnish will probably not cause any harm if eaten.
If you use this herb frequently as a medicine, you should increase your intake of foods high in potassium, such as bananas and fresh vegetables, because diuretics deplete the body of potassium.
WARNING: Herbs should only be used under the supervision of an experienced herbalist or naturopath experienced in herbs.
Availability
Available as tinctures and as fresh or dried leaves, seeds, stems, and roots
