Parsley is a leader among other herbs in terms of health benefits. Even in small quantities, it is an indispensable storehouse of nutrients. By sprinkling parsley on a dish, you can make food tasty and your body healthy. Here we present six health benefits of parsley.
Anti-cancer properties
Research shows that myristicin, an organic compound found in parsley essential oil, not only inhibits tumor formation (especially in the lungs), but also activates the glautin-s-transferase enzyme, which fights oxidized molecules. Myristicin can neutralize carcinogens such as benzopyrene and fight colon and prostate cancer.
Antioxidants
Parsley is rich in antioxidants, including luteolin, which scavenges free radicals in the body that cause oxidative stress in cells. Luteolin also promotes carbohydrate metabolism and serves as an anti-inflammatory agent. Two tablespoons of parsley contains 16% of the daily value of vitamin C and 12% of the daily value of vitamin A, which are powerful antioxidants.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Vitamin C, which parsley is rich in, serves as an effective anti-inflammatory agent. With constant use, it fights diseases such as osteoarthritis (degeneration of articular cartilage and underlying bone) and rheumatoid arthritis (a disease caused by inflammation in the joints)
Strong immune system
Vitamins A and C contained in parsley serve to strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C is essential for collagen, the main structural protein in connective tissue. It speeds up wound healing and maintains healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin A, on the other hand, protects entry points into the human body. It prevents irritation of mucous membranes, respiratory and urinary, and intestinal tracts. Vitamin A is needed by lymphocytes to fight infections in the body.
Healthy heart
Homocysteine, an amino acid that is produced in the body, damages the body’s blood vessels when levels are high. Luckily, the folic acid or vitamin B9 found in parsley converts homocysteine into harmless molecules. Regular consumption of parsley prevents cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction, stroke and atherosclerosis.
Vitamin K
Two tablespoons of parsley provides as much as 153% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin K, which is essential for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a protein that strengthens bones. Vitamin K also prevents the accumulation of calcium in tissues that causes atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, and stroke.
Finally, vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of sphingolipids, fats needed to maintain the myelin sheath around the nerves, and therefore our nervous system remains healthy.