Parsley Leaf Capsules Benefits

Parsley is an annual herb cultivated everywhere but native to the Mediterranean. Its leaves and roots are used as condiments and garnish in dishes, but the plant also has medicinal properties. Parsley seeds are used as carminative, the oil is used in the regulation of menstrual flow, the roots serve as diuretic and the leaves used in treating insect bites, lice and skin parasites. Parsley leaf herbal supplements are presented as capsules to be taken at two or three times daily at mealtimes. The maximum daily dosage is 6 g.

Beneficial Nutrients

Parsley leaf capsules make a good source of important minerals such as calcium, potassium, manganese and iron. They also contain vitamins A, B, C, E, D and K. Other important compounds found in parsley leaf capsules are essential oils such eugenol and apiole; flavonoids such as:

• histidine;
  
• chlorophyll

Digestive Help

The chlorophyll content of parsley leaf capsules makes it useful in maintaining a healthy digestion. These capsules are taken to strengthen and stimulate the digestive system when they are used to ease indigestion and flatulence. They also stimulate the appetite and contribute to efficient metabolism.

Diuretic

Apiol and myristicin in parsley are responsible for its diuretic activity. For this reason, parsley leaf capsules are taken to reduce bloat and improve urination. This diuretic activity makes the capsules great for detoxifying the body since improved urination contributes to faster elimination of toxins and gallstones in the body and prevents the re-absorption of salts in the kidneys. According to Drugs.com, the diuretic property of parsley is a result of its inhibition of the sodium/potassium pump 1.

Other Benefits

A study done at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School in 2009 established that the flavonoid, apigenin, found in parsley reduces the risk of malignant ovarian disease by 20 percent. Parsley leaf capsules are also a good source of vitamin C, an immune booster; the iron content is essential for formation of red blood cells; the potassium content helps lower blood pressure while calcium and manganese are useful in the management of osteoporosis.

Contraindications

Parsley leaf capsules should be avoided by pregnant women because parsley causes uterine contraction at high doses. If you have liver or kidney disease, you need to see your doctor before starting on these capsules. Similarly, if you are allergic to carrots, celery or fennel, you could also be allergic to parsley and need to ask your doctor before taking parsley leaf capsules.