Parsley is a wonderful plant, and is often overlooked by most people who think it’s just a garnish. Parsley is, in fact, a powerful, healing and detoxifying herb.
- Parsley helps to fight cancer. It contains myristicin, which is known to inhibit the formation of tumors and prevent oxidation.
- Parsley is excellent source of chlorophyll. It can freshen breath, neutralize body odor, purify and help to build red blood cells, improve kidney function, cleanse the liver, promote fast wound healing, prevent bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, improve skin disorders, and help to remove heavy metals and other toxins from the body.
- The vitamin C, B12, and beta-carotene in parsley can help boost the immune system.
- Parsley promotes cardiovascular health. The folic acid in parsley assists in breaking down homocysteine in the blood vessels, helping to prevent stroke, heart disease and peripheral vascular disease.
- Parsley is a diuretic, and can reduce blood pressure and promote healthy kidney function.
- Parsley can be used to relieve itching, pain and swelling from insect bites. Just rub the leaves directly onto the affected area.
- Just ten sprigs of parsley provide 556 micrograms of lutein and zeaxanthin for healthy eyes, 505 micrograms of the beta-carotene, 164 micrograms of vitamin K and 842 IUs of vitamin A.
You can add chopped parsley to salads, soups, vegetables, dips, gravies, juices, and smoothies. You can even add it to your dog’s food a few times a week to freshen breath and give them the healthy benefits of parsley.
Pregnant women should not consume excessive amounts of parsley, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
So the next time you see some parsley on your plate, you’ll know it’s not just a garnish!
We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have. -Frederick Keonig