Parsley for Arthritis Pain, Heart Health and Cancer Prevention

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Most of you probably think of parsley as just a garnish and leave it on the side of the plate uneaten. That is such a shame, because the health benefits of parsley are quite remarkable.

It is a superfood you can all do well to eat a lot more of, in particular if you’d like to lower your risk of diseases such as arthritis, cancer and heart disease. There’s definitely a lot more to this wonder herb than just decoration.

Health Benefits of Parsley:

1. Arthritis Pain

Parsley is a potent source of antioxidants including beta-carotene, vitamin C and a wide variety of potentially anti-inflammatory nutrients, that can help in reducing the symptoms of arthritis. Consuming this herb regularly can speed up the excretion of uric acid, a substance that can increase pain for arthritis and joint stiffness.

One teaspoon of parsley made into a tea in 1 cup of boiling water is often recommended as an effective arthritis treatment. Fresh parsley is mmuch better, though dried organic flakes are also found to be effective.

2. Cancer Prevention

Parsley is rich in cancer-fighting compounds. Studies have suggested that compounds present in parsley may help inhibit tumor growth.

A recent study in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture reported that parsley contains potent anticancer properties. Also, it fights cancer in 4 different ways; It protects your DNA from damage that can lead to cancer or other diseases, acts as an antioxidant that destroys free radicals before they damage cells, and inhibits the proliferation and migration of cancer cells in your body.

3. Heart Health

Folate that is present in parsley is a perfect nutrient for cardiovascular health. Specifically, it helps in protecting your blood vessels and reduces your risks of heart attack, by converting potentially dangerous homocysteine into harmless molecules.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Components

Parsley has been used in the Mediterranean region for bruises, toothaches, rough skin and insect bites. According to preliminary studies done at the King Saud University by Al-Howiriny et al., parsley contains anti-hepatotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties.

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The anti-inflammatory properties help in reducing internal inflammations, while the anti-hepatotoxic properties help in cleansing the liver.

5. Boost the Immune System

The minerals, vitamins and antioxidants present in parsley are helpful for strengthening immunity. Vitamin A, C, K, niacin and folate each act on different aspects of your immune system.

Vitamin A acts directly on white blood cells or lymphocytes, thereby increasing their effect. The chlorophyll present in it contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties as well. Studies have shown that the herb contains anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties, which makes it an ideal source for various home remedies.

6. Diabetes Prevention

Research which was published in the Journal of Nutrition reported that consuming foods high in a naturally occurring nutrient called myricetin can help decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by at least 26%. Parsley is one of the rich sources of myricetin, as it contains about 8 milligrams per 100 grams of parsley.

The study, which was known as the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (Epic), was conducted in 26 study centers located in 8 European countries over several years. A subsequent study of 12,403 individuals with type 2 diabetes showed a strong association between consumption of flavonol, (a natural compound present in parsley) and a significantly reduced incidence of the disease.

7. Natural Diuretic

Parsley is a great natural diuretic, whch makes it a wonder-herb for helping flush your body of excess toxins and lowering blood pressure. It’s diuretic effects help in elimination excess sodium in your body, which is also great for getting rid of excess water weight.

Read More:
1. 10 Amazing Benefits of Guava Leaves
2. Reasons Why Many Can’t Say No to Cantaloupes
3. Why Its a Must to Eat More Mustard Greens

photo credit: pixabay

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