What’s Special about Parsley?
Parsley is rich in nutrients, chlorophyll and carotenes. It is a wonderful source of vitamin C, folic acid and iron. Even more, it is a terrific source of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc. Parsley is full of fiber too! (3 1⁄2 oz = 3.6 g fiber) But the most exciting benefit of parsley is its anti-cancer properties. It has been shown to inhibit the cancer-causing properties of fried foods. To be specific, parsley contains two components: volatile oil and flavonoids. The volatile oil properties have been shown to inhibit tumor formation and neutralize carcinogens. The flavonoids in parsley have been shown to function as antioxidants that help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells. Bring on the flavonoids!
More Health Benefits
Parsley is regarded as a great nerve stimulant, which is why it is used in so many “energy drinks.” Even more, it is wonderful for problematic skin as it helps to cleanse the body from the inside out. It stimulates the production of collagen and promotes cell reproduction and repair due to its high Vitamin C content. Moreover, it’s high vitamin K and Zinc values speed up and aide would healing like acne blemishes. Parsley’s antioxidant flavonoids have even been found to improve hair growth. And if that is not enough, consuming 1/4 cup a day of parsley is known to remove toxic heavy metals from the intestinal tract, which burden the immune system. Parsley is not just a garnish!
What are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids, along with carotenoids, provide the beautiful colors of fruits, vegetables and herbs. 5,000+ flavonoids have been identified in plants and have shown to protect against the following: allergies, cancer, candidiasis, infection, liver disease, chemotherapy, toxic metal build-up, inflammation, parasites, worms, viruses and much more!
Tips for Preparing and Cooking
Always choose organic or no-spray parsley as this ensures you will not consume harmful pesticides and herbicides. Parsley should be washed before using. Place in a bowl of water and swish to remove dirt. Repeat until clean.
- Fresh parsley in vegetable juice
- Brewed as a tea with other herbs
- Add parsley to pesto sauce
- Combine chopped parsley, garlic and lemon zest and use as rub for meat
- Chopped parsley can be added to salads, soups, sauces, vegetable sautés and grilled seafood
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In Divine Health,
Kristin
Sources:
Murray, M. (2005). The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods. NY: Atria Books
Bauman, Ed., & Friedlander, Jodi. (2015). Foundations of Nutrition. Bauman College: Pennngrove, CA
Mateljan, George. The World’s Healthiest Foods. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=100
Superfood Profiles. “Eating Parsley for Healthy Skin and Hair.” Retrieved from http://superfoodprofiles.com/eating-parsley-healthy-skin-hair
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