By Chisom Ibemere
Parsley also called garden parsley and scientifically known as Petroselinum crispum is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae that is native to the central and eastern Mediterranean region but widely cultivated as a herb, and a vegetable.
Parsley is a bright green, biennial plant grown in temperate climates, or an annual herb in subtropical and tropical regions. Parsley is used as a garnish on potato dishes, rice dishes, fish, fried chicken, lamb, goose, and steaks, as well as in meat or vegetable stews. The seeds are used in cooking, imparting a stronger parsley flavor more than leaves.
In the past years, parsley had been efficient in the treatment of conditions like high blood pressure, allergies, and inflammatory diseases. Recently, it has been widely used as a culinary herb fresh or dried. It is typically bright green in color with a mild, bitter flavor that blends properly with many recipes.
Parsley offers many essential nutrients needed of the body. It is rich in Carbohydrates, Protein, Fat, Fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, Potassium. The numerous vitamins, mostly vitamin K is needed for blood clotting and bone health. Parsley is also a great source of vitamins A and C, important nutrients with antioxidant properties.
Parsley contains plant compounds which exhibit anticancer properties. Parsley is particularly rich in flavonoid antioxidants and vitamin C, which decreases oxidative stress in your body and may lower your risk of cancers diseases. More dietary intake of flavonoids may prevent the risk of colon cancer.
Parsely contains Lutein, beta carotene, and zeaxanthin which are carotenoids found in parsley that protects the eyes and promote healthy vision. Carotenoids are pigments in plants with powerful antioxidant activity. Lutein and zeaxanthin helps to prevent age-related macular degeneration which is an incurable eye disease and a leading cause of blindness around the globe.
Parsley is a nutrient-dense herb that improves heart health, it is rich in vitamin B which helps to reduce heart disease risk.