Nutrition
As per USDA, the nutrients found in fresh parsley include vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium. It is a good source of vitamin A, K, and E, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, iron, and zinc.
It is also a very good source of volatile compounds such as myristicin, limonene, eugenol, and alpha-thujene. Its leaves contain energy, carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
Health Benefits
Let’s take a look at the top health benefits of parsley, in detail, below:
Rich Source of Antioxidants
Parsley contains several flavonoid antioxidants including luteolin, apigenin, lycopene, beta-carotene, and alpha-carotene. The British Journal of Nutrition published a study that suggests that parsley helps protect the cells from free radical damage. This damage is responsible for many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular problems, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and eye disorders.
Promotes Kidney Cleanse
A research published in 2002 revealed that parsley is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help cleanse the kidneys naturally. For many centuries now, it has been used as a diuretic that helps treat kidney stones, gallbladder stones, bladder infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
A kidney-cleanse can be done, under medical supervision, through the intake of the herb in dishes, parsley tea, parsley juiced with other vegetables, or parsley lemon water. The roots of the herb are also very useful in counteracting kidney stones.
Treats Bloating (Edema)
A 2013 study states that parsley has diuretic properties, which help treat bloating, edema, or water retention If you are afflicted by this condition, a few teaspoons of its juice can provide some quick relief.
Also, the juice is an excellent natural remedy as over-the-counter chemical diuretics can flush out potassium, causing harm to the body. The herb, with its rich potassium content, helps you avoid undesirable side effects of a mineral imbalance.
Weight Loss
Parsley is a nutrient-dense herb, which is low in calories. A research conducted on the effects of parsley on cadmium neurotoxicity suggests that it also helps boost metabolism. A healthy metabolism paves way for a quicker and healthy weight loss. Moreover, parsley also removes excess water from the body and cleanse the kidneys and livers. This, in turn, keeps the body’s functioning at its optimal level and helps in weight loss.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Parsley has traditionally been used in the Mediterranean region for toothaches, bruises, insect bites, and rough skin. According to the American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Urology, parsley has anti-inflammatory and anti-hepatotoxicity properties that help reduce internal inflammation and also help cleanse the liver.