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 Petroselinum crispum/Apium petroselinum (Umbelliferae)
PARSLEY, PERSIL, PETERSYLINGE
Valued by Culpeper for stomach,
kidney and menstrual problems, parsley leaves, roots and seeds are still
used by herbalists for urinary tract infections, kidney stones, poor
digestion, and rheumatic complaints.
The Greeks did not eat parsley but revered it as a sacred herb of the Gods.
Culpeper recommended the herb for stomach, kidney and menstrual problems, for which it is still
used. Native to southern Europe, parsley is a biennial with a deep taproot and divided leaves,
which are curled or flat depending on the variety. Creamy-white, umbrella-like
clusters of flowers appear in the summer of the second year, followed by small, ribbed, football-shaped fruit.
PARTS USED
Leaves, root, seeds.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Volatile oil containing apiol,
myristicin, limonene, eugenol, pinene, and terpinene; coumarins, including bergapten, xanthotoxin,
and psoralen; flavonoids, including apiin, lueolin, and glycosides of apigenin and luteolin; vitamins A and C.
ACTIONS
Relieves wind and colic; reduces muscle tension and spasm;
promotes bowel movements; increases urine production; stimulates menstruation; antirheumatic; antimicrobial; stimulates milk production.
MEDICINAL USE
Given for urinary tract infections, kidney stones,
rheumatic complaints, and poor digestion with intestinal spasms and flatulence.
It is also used to help the womb recover after birth and promote the flow of breast milk.
PREPARATIONS
Infusion, decoction of dried root, fresh leaves, tincture.
CAUTION
Seeds and leaves should be avoided during pregnancy.
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