Parsley

I always grow decent amount of parsley in my kitchen garden, however, this year I might have overdone it a bit. The seeds germinated really well, and so as not to waste any of them, I dotted them around the garden, the growing conditions have been perfect throughout the season, so that got me thinking about how I can incorporate more into my cooking…. And the list of recipes is endless, (I’ll let you discover your favourites).

You might know parsley as a garnish, but this herb does so much more than just decorate your plate. It’s packed with nutrients and antioxidants that offer some surprising health benefits.

What Is Parsley?

• Parsley is a flowering plant in the Apiaceae family.

• The scientific name is Petroselinum crispum -

Petroselinum: Derived from the Greek words petros meaning "rock" or "stone" and

selinon meaning "celery" or "parsley." It refers to the plant's traditional growing habit in rocky or stony areas, which is often associated with parsley's native environment in the Mediterranean region.

Crispum: Comes from the Latin word crispus, meaning "curled" or "wavy." This refers to the appearance of the leaves, particularly the curly-leaf variety of parsley.

Health Benefits of Parsley

• Rich in Nutrients: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

  • Vitamins:

    • Vitamin A: Supports immune system and eye health, helps prevent age-related macular degeneration.

    • Vitamin C: Good for skin and immune health.

    • Vitamin K: Essential for bone and heart health, aids in blood clotting. 1 tbsp of parsley provides over 70% of the daily Vitamin K intake.

  • Minerals: Magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium.

  • Kidney Health: May assist in kidney stone management (based on animal studies).

  • Heart Health: Vitamin A may improve heart disease risk factors.

  • Bone Health: Rich in nutrients like Vitamin K, calcium, potassium, and magnesium that support bone health.

  • Immune Boost: (Apigenin) regulates the immune system by reducing inflammation.

  • Cancer Prevention: Contains flavonoids like apigenin and myricetin, which may help prevent cancer. You’ll have to do your own research on that.

  • Natural Diuretic: Helps reduce bloating and blood pressure.

Native to the central and eastern Mediterranean (e.g., Sardinia, Lebanon, Israel, Cyprus, Turkey, Southern Italy, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Malta, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia).

It has been cultivated since around the 3rd century BC.

Ancient Greeks believed parsley was sacred, used it for athletic contests and tomb decorations.

Romans were the first to use parsley as a garnish.

Types of Parsley

• French (Curly Leaf): Decorative, used in garnishing.

• Italian (Flat Leaf): More flavourful, easier to cultivate, preferred for cooking.

• Southern Italian: Thick stems similar to celery.

  
  

Toxicity and Side Effects

• Interaction with Medications: People on blood thinners should consult a doctor due to parsley's high Vitamin K content.

Try a cup of Parsley tea,

• Flat Leaf parsley is better, add about ¼ cup fresh parsley to the teapot and cover with a cup of boiled water.

• Allow to steep for 7-10 minutes.

• Strain and enjoy, for a blend, add honey, or lemon, or one of my favourites, Rose Petals.