We’ve all seen it.  It’s served on our plates in fancy restaurants.  It’s found in the grocery stores and be honest, you’ve wondered why it’s there.  Oh sure, a few recipes call for it, but who would want to eat it for any other reason?  Over the last few years, I’ve changed my mind about parsley.  Like most of nature’s bounty, parsley has its share of health benefits.  Let’s see if you knew this about this leafy green.

Heart healthy

Parsley contains folic acid, which aids in heart health.  Regular use of parsley can help lower blood pressure.  (Maybe we should all carry some in our cars during rush hour!!  😉 )

Loaded with vitamins

As would be expected of a green veg, parsley is packed full of important vitamins like Vitamin A, B12, C, and K.  (Yes, I put them in alphabetical order for my OCD friends! )  Those vitamins are vital in keeping your immune system strong, healing your nervous system, and toning your bones.

Supports kidney functions

Good news!  It helps to flush out excess fluid from your body, which helps your kidneys out.  However, if you are having kidney or gallbladder troubles, you might want to check with your doctor before eating a whole bunch., because of the oxalates found in parsley.

Eases joint pain

Take some parsley daily and it will help you by bringing relief to your aches and pains.  Why?  Because it contains anti-inflammatory properties.

Freshens breath

Parsley has been used since the ancient Roman times for freshening your breath.  THAT is why restaurants put it on your plate!  So, after your garlic-laden pasta, chew on some parsley.  Your date will be glad you did!

Aids digestion

For those of you who are tea lovers, parsley tea is a great aid for digestion as well as helping relax stiff muscles.  Perhaps a good tea to have in the morning after a good workout!

Essential oil benefits

We’ve heard a lot about essential oils lately and how they are super for treating medical conditions without chemicals.  Parsley essential oil is one of those.  You can massage it into your scalp to help lessen hair loss.  Also, studies have shown that parsley’s essential oil may have a role in inhibiting cancerous tumors.  YAY!!

So, there ya go!  Lots of good reasons to have parsley in your life.  It’s pretty inexpensive at the store in bunches, found in the vegetable section.  Did you know parsley is related to the carrot?  Fun fact.  If you’re like me, and can’t seem to chew on parsley all the time, there are other ways to ingest it.  Several companies have developed “Parsley vitamins”.  Again, read the labels to make sure they haven’t thrown anything extra in there!  Kinda reminds me of bill drafts…  One good thing, surrounded by other legislation that has nothing to do with the main thing!  Sorry, that is for a political blog.  😉  But, please DO read the labels.  Here is an online source for parsley capsules that are pure.

Did I change your mind?  Are there other uses for parsley I don’t have listed?  Feel free to leave your comments!