Since ancient time, celery has been revered for its taste as well as its medicinal properties. Celery belongs to the umbelliferae family, which includes carrots, fennel, parsley and dill.
Surprising to many, celery has long been used to treat many cardiovascular disease. Many nutrients and compounds give celery its unique health benefits. These include vitamin C, phthalides, and coumarins. Celery also contains many other nutrients that make it an excellent addition to any diet.
| My Health Food Quick Notes |
|---|
| Source of Anti-Oxidants |
| Help Lower Blood Pressure |
| Decrease Inflammation |
| Calming Factors |
Antioxidant Activity
Celery is a rich source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C helps prevent the damage caused by free radicals, and therefore helps decrease the risk of inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, stroke and cancers. Vitamin C also helps boost immune function and protects against colds and flus.
Another source of antioxidants from celery is from the seeds. Celery seeds contain limonene oil, which shows high anti-oxidant potential.
Potential Blood Pressure Benefits
Traditional medicine, particularly Chinese medicine, has prescribed celery to lower blood pressure. Phthalides, which are contained in celery, help which can help relax the muscles around the arteries as well as reduce stress hormones. Both these factors contribute to improved blood flow.
Celery is also a good source of potassium, magnesium and calcium, which help lower blood pressure.
Traditional Uses of Celery
Celery has been used to treat a variety of ailments and is an integral part of many home remedies. Traditionally, celery has been prescribed to induce calmness. It has been prescribed to treat joint pains, including those associated with arthritis. Also, celery juice has been used to suppress appetite.
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