Health Benefits

Parsley has many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can provide important health benefits. It is a particularly rich source of vitamin K. A single tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley provides more than 70% of the recommended daily intake.

Parsley also contains a good amount of vitamin A and antioxidants known as flavonoids. 

The other health benefits that parsley can provide include: 

Cancer Prevention

Parsley contains a large amount of the flavone apigenin. While cooking and/or drying may reduce some of parsley’s other health benefits, it increases the apigenin available in parsley. In fact, dried parsley is the best natural source of apigenin.

Flavones are the pigments in certain flowering plants and powerful antioxidants. Apigenin has demonstrated particular potential as an anticancer agent, but more research is needed.

Diuresis 

Diuresis is the process in which your kidneys make extra pee in order to get rid of a substance in your body. Parsley works as a powerful natural diuretic and can help reduce bloating and blood pressure. 

Bone Health

Parsley is loaded with vitamin K, which has been linked to bone health. The vitamin supports bone growth and bone mineral density.

One study on parsley found that it helped protect against osteoporosis in rats.

Eye Health

Parsley contains vitamin A, which helps protect the surface of the eye, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that help prevent age-related macular degeneration. 

Bonus benefit: Eating a bit of fresh parsley after your meal will also freshen your breath naturally.

Parsley Precautions and Downsides

Parsley can cause photosensitivity, whether ingested or if the oils get on the skin, leading to skin reactions upon exposure to sunlight. This is due, at least in part, to psoralen, which is a compound found in parsley that can increase skin sensitivity to UV light.

Some individuals may also experience allergic reactions to parsley, including skin rashes, hives, or respiratory issues. Those with known allergies to plants in the Apiaceae family should exercise caution when including it in their diet. Cross-reactivity with birch pollen may also occur in sensitive individuals.

Additionally, high consumption of parsley can stimulate uterine contractions. If you’re pregnant, you should probably avoid large amounts of parsley to prevent potential pregnancy complications.

Parsley may also interact with certain drugs. A 2023 study showed how apigenin can affect the metabolism of drugs like dasatinib, a medication used for leukemia treatment. The study found that apigenin inhibits certain enzymes in the liver, which can alter the drug’s effectiveness and increase the risk of adverse effects.

For educational purposes only.  Not to be construed as medical advice.  Consult with your medical professional before using.

References:

FOOD REVOLUTION NETWORK

webMed