Parsleyis an herb used to add flavor to meals. It adds a different flavor to recipes such as soups and salads. Besides its culinary use, it is very nutritious and has many health benefits.
In this text "What is parsley", "parsley benefits", "parsley damages", "how to store parsley for a long time"Information about, will be given.
What is Parsley?
Scientifically "Petroselinum crispumIt is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean Region, grown as spices, herbs and vegetables.
It is widely used in Middle Eastern, European and American cuisines. It is usually bright green; It is an annual herb in tropical and subtropical regions.
Parsley Varieties
generally parsley species three of them.
Curly leaf parsley
It is the most common type. It is often used as a garnish in soups, meat dishes and other dishes.
Flat leaf parsley
Also The Turkish Italian parsley It has more flavor than curly leaf. It is used in soups, salads and sauces.
Chervil
Turnip rooted or German parsley also known as a lesser known variety. It is used not for its leaves, but for its turnip-like root.
Parsley Nutrition Value
Two tablespoons (8 grams) parsley It has the following nutrient content:
Calories: 2
Vitamin A: 12% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Vitamin C: 16% of the RDI
Vitamin K: 154% of the RDI
Calories in parsley It is low, yet rich in important nutrients such as vitamins A, K and C.
Vitamin Ais an essential nutrient that plays an important role in immunity and eye health. Also, it is important for the skin and improves skin conditions such as acne.
This healthy herb is also a great source of vitamin K, a nutrient that supports bone and heart health.
Just two tablespoons (8 grams) provide more vitamin K than you need daily. In addition to its role in bone and heart health, vitamin K is also essential for proper blood clotting, which can help prevent excessive bleeding.
In addition parsleyContains vitamin C, a nutrient that improves heart health and is vital for the immune system.
Vitamin C also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting it from damage caused by unbalanced molecules called free radicals.
Also magnesium, potassium, folate, iron and a good source of calcium.
Benefits of Parsley
Improves blood sugar
Besides diabetes, high blood sugar levels can occur due to an unhealthy diet or sedentary lifestyle.
High blood sugar levels can cause high cholesterol and insulin resistancecan increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome.
Animal studies show that the antioxidants in this herb can effectively reduce high blood sugar levels.
For example, a study in rats with type 1 diabetes. parsley extract found that those given greater reductions in blood sugar levels.
Good for heart health
Heart conditions such as heart attacks and strokes are the leading cause of death worldwide. Unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and high alcohol intake can cause heart disease.
Benefits of parsleyOne is that it contains many plant compounds, such as carotenoid antioxidants, which benefit heart health by reducing heart disease risk factors.
For example, those who eat foods rich in carotenoids have been shown to improve heart disease risk factors such as chronic inflammation, high blood pressure, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Same time benefit of parsley It contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant for heart health. In one study of 13.421 people, those with the highest vitamin C intake had the lowest risk of heart disease.
Benefits for kidney health
The kidneys are important organs that constantly filter the blood, removing waste and excess water. The filtered waste is then excreted in the urine.
Sometimes, when urine becomes concentrated, mineral deposits may form and lead to a painful condition called kidney stones.
A study in rats with kidney stones. parsleyHe found that those treated with A decreased urine pH as well as reduced calcium and protein excretion in the urine.
ParsleyThe flour is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties, as it contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C.
Additionally, it protects kidney health by lowering high blood pressure, which is an important risk factor for kidney disease.
ParsleyIt contains high levels of nitrates, which dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow and reduce high blood pressure.
Studies show that nitrate-rich foods can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Parsley plantIts anti-inflammatory properties, along with its ability to regulate urine pH and lower blood pressure, help keep kidneys healthy and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
Parsley and Its Benefits
Parsley benefit it is an endless plant. In addition to the above, it provides the following benefits:
Antibacterial properties
Has antibacterial effects, Staphylococcus aureus Contains essential oils such as apiol and myristicin, which fight potentially harmful bacteria such as
It is beneficial for bone health
They are rich in vitamin K, potassium, magnesium and calcium - all important for bone health.
Strengthens immunity
Research parsleyalso shows that the antioxidant of apigenin regulates immune function by reducing inflammation and preventing cellular damage.
Benefits for liver health
Studies in rats with diabetes parsley pillIt has shown that can prevent liver damage, increase liver function and raise antioxidant levels.
Parsley benefits for skin
ParsleySkin care properties of flour are not well known. The skin benefits of this herb are due to its antioxidant properties and the high amount of vitamin C it contains.
This herb helps to heal wounds, has anti-aging effects and even prevents acne and pimples. It is beneficial in reducing the appearance of dark skin spots. Heals irritated skin.
Harm and Side Effects of Parsley
Parsley can have side effects if consumed in excess.
Skin sensitivity
Parsley seed oilApplying. to the skin may cause sensitivity to sunlight and a rash in some people. Therefore, consult your doctor before using it.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
During pregnancy or breastfeeding, although safe in normal quantities excessive consumption may cause complications.
Hypertension
In some cases, parsley holds excess sodium in the body and raises blood pressure. Therefore, be careful and consult your doctor if you have problems with blood pressure.
Interactions during the surgical procedure
Parsleycan lower blood sugar levels and interfere with blood sugar control during surgery. Stop using it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
High vitamin K content can interact with drugs such as Coumadin.
How to Use Parsley?
It is a versatile herb that can be added to many dishes. It can be consumed as follows:
Use it as a garnish in pasta or soups.
- Chop and add to salads.
Use it in pesto sauce.
Add it to smoothies as a nutrient and flavor enhancer.
Use it in homemade pizza.
- Add it to homemade bread.
Use in homemade juices.
- Use it to add flavor to meat dishes.
- Add it to marinades and sauces.
- Use it to flavor dishes such as fish and chicken.
How to Store Parsley?
Fresh parsleyu need to remove the handle first for optimal storage. Do not rinse. Fill a glass or half of the jar with water and place the stem ends in the water. If you keep the plant in the refrigerator, it is best to store it loosely with a plastic bag, unattached.
Change the water every two days and discard the plants when the leaves begin to turn brown. This way, the plant can stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Dried parsley It can stay for six months to a year in a cool dark environment in an airtight container.
As a result;
Rich in antioxidants and nutrients such as vitamins A, K and C parsleyIt balances blood sugar and is beneficial for heart, kidney and bone health.
This herb adds flavor to many dishes. It stays fresh for up to two weeks, the dry one can last up to a year.
