Painter Credit: Nicole Marie Castelluccio @nicolecmarie
Parsley: it’s more than just a garnish. While it makes our plate look pretty, most of us don’t tend to give parsley much thought as far as health benefits or nutrients. Turns out, it packs a powerful nutritional punch!
Parsley is a flowering plant, and is native to the Mediterranean. French curly-leaf and Italian flat-leaf are the two most common types of parsley. It is widely used as a dried spice or fresh culinary herb. Bright green in color, parsley’s mild, bitter flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Due to its impressive medicinal properties including possessing anti-oxidative, antimicrobial, anticoagulant, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-anemic, antihypertensive, diuretic effects, hypo-glycemic, and other ingredients, parsley has been used to treat a variety of conditions over the years. It is no surprise then that parsley is often labeled as one of the most powerful disease-fighting herbs.
Parsley is Nutrient Rich
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin K
Folate
Potassium
Carotenoids
Flavonoids
Folic Acid
and more!
Parsley is rich in vitamin A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Vitamin K is necessary for bone health and blood clotting, while vitamins A and C possess antioxidant properties. Vitamin C also protects against chronic disease and supports immune health. Folate is necessary to maintaining healthy blood vessels, and high intake of folate may decrease heart disease risk in certain populations. Research has found that diets rich in flavonoids may lower your risk of some conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer. Additionally, reduced risk of lung cancer and other diseases has been associated with higher intake of carotenoids.
Parsley is also a diuretic, which means it can trigger urination and support bladder and kidney detoxification. It may also help prevent the formation of kidney stones. Parsley also possesses compounds that support healthy hormone levels, and may alleviate menstruation symptoms.
Parsley is a very versatile herb, it can be enjoyed fresh or dried, on food or in a tea or smoothie. Enjoy parsley in soups, salads, sauces, marinades, or main courses. You can also chew on a sprig of parsley while cooking to freshen breath!
Two of our favorite ways to use parsley are in Tabouli and our Cilantro and Parsley Pesto!
Tabouli
Bulgur wheat
Scallions
Mint
Parsley
Cilantro
Garlic
Lemon
Optional add-ons:
Walnuts
Cranberries
Pomegranate seeds
Carrots
Cilantro and Parsley Pesto
Parsley
Lemon
Cilantro
Garlic
Olive oil
What's your favorite way to use parsley?
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