Many of the health benefits of parsley are believed to stem from the abundance of minerals, such as iron and potassium, and the high levels of vitamins A, C, and K. These nutrients are believed to make the herb effective in the prevention of various illnesses, such as cancer. Parsley is commonly used for kidney and bladder conditions. It can also be used to replace water retention medications.
Parsley is an herb more widely known for its culinary use than its medicinal use. The curly variety is often used as garnish in restaurants. Many people make the mistake of pushing it aside and not eating it, thereby rejecting a substantial number of potential benefits.
One of the primary health benefits of parsley is its abundant nutrient content. Even if the herb was not consumed to address any particular problem, it has the potential to effectively contribute to overall good health. This herb is, however, effective for specific therapeutic reasons. For example, some lactating females use parsley to dry up their milk and other females use it to help regulate their menstrual cycles.
The high content of vitamin C and vitamin A contribute to parsley's credit as being a good disease-prevention herb. Parsley contains more vitamin C than citrus fruits. Vitamin C damages free radicals, and it has been shown to keep the immune system healthy. This is believed to prevent cellular damage and the development of cardiovascular and eye diseases.
Some research supports the use of this herb as an anti-carcinogen. This is believed to be due in part to vitamin A, which is considered an anti-carcinogen. It has also been found that cancer cannot thrive when the blood has adequate amounts of potassium.
Potassium is a mineral abundantly contained in parsley, which helps to contribute to the overall maintenance of good human health. The mineral is believed to contribute to parsley's reputation as a highly effective remedy for both bladder and kidney problems, such as treating infections of the two organs and treating kidney stones. Potassium also contributes to another of the widely exploited health benefits of parsley, the ability to increase water retention.
The presence of large quantities of vitamin K are responsible for more health benefits of parsley. To begin with, vitamin K helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. Some medical professionals prescribe supplements of this vitamin to those suffering from osteoporosis, but herbalists tend to suggest diet modification, including the consumption of parsley.