Parsley

Alternative names : Petroselinum crispum, Apium crispum, Petroselini Herba, Racine de Persil

Used in foods and beverages as condiment and flavor, Parsley is native of Eastern Mediterranean areas and grows on stony grounds. Often associated with malefic magic practices, Parsley origin is considered to be the blood of Archemorus, the ancient God of fertility in Greek mythology and this is the reason why Parsley was often used over the graves of relatives and friends. Romans spread Parsley on the breakfast bread and used to wear Parsley garlands around their necks to prevent drunkenness. About Parsley cultivation, legends say that only bad, sinful people can cultivate it, as it should be seeded nine times before emergence, first eight seeding belonging to the Devil.

Containing 4 times more vitamin C than an orange, Parsley is used successfully in colds and flu, tobacco bronchitis and allergic asthma and research showed that a substance contained in the volatile oil (myristicin) inhibits pulmonary tumor proliferation. Often used for gastrointestinal disorders, colics, intestinal gas, constipation and indigestion, Parsley proves beneficial also in the treatment of kidney stones, urinary tract infections and prostate conditions.

Parsley leaves consumed raw before a meal will stimulate appetite, while consumed after the meal, will act as a breath freshener and will reduce nausea. Parsley tea or Parsley juice (a parsley bunch mixed in one glass of water, drank cold) is very helpful in conditions associated with fluid retention and edema, decreasing blood pressure and increasing urine production. Recommended in spleen disorders, Parsley can fight anemia, start menstrual flow or cause an abortion.

Applied on the skin, Parsley can help heal bruises, insect bites and stimulate hair growth.