At home, our herb garden is overflowing with Parsley. We could almost use it as a hedge. We’re not complaining though; this little green herb punches well above its weight when it comes to its many health benefits and culinary uses.
Health Benefits of Parsley
- Rich in vital vitamins, including Vitamin C, B 12, K and A parsley keeps your immune system strong
- It helps flush out excess fluid from the body
- Regular consumption of parsley can help control blood pressure (via the folic acid in the plant)
- Compounds such as vitamin C and beta-carotene found in parsley possess anti-inflammatory properties
- Parsley tea (i.e. Parsley roots diffused in boiling water) relaxes stiff muscles and encourages digestion. Consumed daily, this tea also works well as a general cleanser for the body.
- Parsley is effective in cases of osteoporosis and is helpful in maintaining bone health. Recommended vitamin K consumption (which parsley provides in 10 sprigs) boots bone health by improving calcium absorption and reducing urinary excretion of calcium.
Facts about Parsley
- Originated in the Mediterranean region of southern Italy, Algeria, and Tunisia more than 2000 years ago
- Contains more beta-carotene than a large carrot
- 1/2 cup of minced parsley contains the same amount of Vitamin C as 1 orange
- 1 cup of parsley has more iron than a serving of liver
- Needs both moisture and sunlight to grow
Ways to incorporate Parsley
Mushrooms and Parsley. YUM!
- Add a few sprigs of parsley to your green smoothie
- Lightly fry some chopped mushrooms in butter and just before you’re ready to serve, toss in a handful of roughly chopped parsley
- Finely chop the parsley leaves and add to salad dressings
- Sprinkle chopped leaves over scrambled eggs, quiche or frittata
- Make Chimichurri Sauce and enjoy with Steak, Chicken or Fish
- Any tomato-based sauces, poultry dishes, grain-based salads, or seafood will be complimented by the addition of parsley
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