Common names: Parsley

Taxonomic name: Petroselenium crispum

Family: Apiaceae

Uses: Food, tonic, fluid problems, gas, Tarterous slime

Area of origin: Mediterranean

Warnings: While Parsley has uses in pregnancy, it should only be used by experts in that situation

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a well known kitchen herb that has useful medicinal properties. Both the flat leaved and the curled leaved varieties can be used for the same purposes. P. sativum is a synonym of P. crispum, so don’t get confused, they’re the same thing.

P. crispum is otherwise called ‘Curly Parsley’ and ‘Italian’ or ‘Flat Leaf Parsely’ is a variety of P. crispum called P.crispum var neapolitanum taxonomically.

The whole of the Parsley plant can be used, root, leaf and seed. The seeds are the most potent part of the plant, being high in useful oils. The root is the next most useful, and the leaves the least, though their ease of harvesting and availability make them the most commonly used part.

Parsley’s most common use is as a remedy is for helping the bladder and kidneys. It is rich in Sodium and Potassium, elements that regulate the balance of fluids. Here Parsley excels but normalizing that balance, reducing or increasing each as needed to reach it. Parsley also contains an oil that is specifically good for the kidneys. It is suitable here too as it helps maintain the small vessels of the body, of which the kidneys are full.

It is a diuretic, helping move fluids through the urinary tract. This makes it excellent for all of the ‘-itis’ problems of the urinary tract, cystitis, nephritis etc, as well as for high blood pressure and fluid retention. Another traditional use of Parsley is for softening areas that are hard and dehydrated. It’s high Sodium level helps draw water to these areas.

According to one source, if you have a ‘crawling in your urethra’, Parsley is the remedy you need! Also…if you have a case of ‘Tarterous slime” then Parsley is for you!

Parsley is also used for easing stomach gripes and colic, it’s carminative properties help cases of gas.

I’ve read too that this herb helps maintain proper functioning of the adrenals and thyroid, but I haven’t been able to follow that up yet.

Just a note – this wonderful herb, usually relegated to kitchen duties, has a stimulating effect on the uterus, but should not be used by the inexperienced. Expert use in pregnancy only.