Parsley Leaf

Latin name: Petroselinum crispum

Parsley is a Remedy For
Kidney and bladder stones
Urinary tract infections

Parsley seed, leaf, and root are all used medicinally, but only the leaf and root have been thoroughly tested and found effective for urinary problems.

In folk medicine, Parsley has also been used to treat stomach and intestinal disorders, jaundice, water retention, and failure to menstruate. Its effectiveness for these ailments has not, however, been scientifically proven. Juice pressed from fresh Parsley is a folk remedy for insect bites.

Now grown worldwide, Parsley originated somewhere in the Mediterranean region. The Ancient Greeks employed it in their funeral rites, fashioning it into wreaths for their tombs. Ironically, this most widely used of kitchen herbs was never used for cooking in Ancient Greece. Instead, it was held sacred and reserved for the realms of the dead. From Greece, Parsley spread across the Roman Empire and eventually throughout Europe. The curled-leafed variety, "crispum" was mentioned by the Roman historian Pliny. Others varieties have been known since at least the 18th century.

Although common Parsley seems an unlikely candidate for medicinal use, the oil extracted from the plant is surprisingly potent--and, in large doses, even dangerous. Parsley leaf and root help flush excess water from the body. In animal tests, they have also been found to trigger and strengthen contractions of the uterus.

Avoid If...
Parsley is not recommended for water retention due to a heart or kidney condition; and should not be used if you have a kidney inflammation. You should also avoid Parsley if you have ever suffered an allergic reaction to it or its active ingredient, apiole. Do not take Parsley while pregnant (see "Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding").

 




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