Celery though uncommon among the western medical practitioners, it has been popular among the eastern regions as
medicinal herb and has been used in Ayurveda, a form of healing with natural substances. The ayurvedic Physicians or Vaidyas used
celery for the treatment of common health problems like cold, flu, arthritis, heart problems, and water retention and sometimes for the treatment of liver and spleen related disorders.
Plant description:
The celery plant grows up to a height of three feet. It has branched leaves and a pleasant smell. It is sometimes used in culinary purposes too.
Medicinal Properties:
Celery is an effective diuretic which promotes the passing of urine. In fact, it is believed to possess anti bacterial properties which also makes it fight urinary tract infections very efficiently. Compounds containing
celery seeds reduce muscle spasms, reduce inflammation and ease pain. Studies also support the theory that
celery may be effective in the treatment of arthritis and gout.
The extracts of celery seeds help in the reduction of high blood pressure and reduce cholesterol.
Celery seed extracts also counter act the ill effects of prolonged consumption of paracetamol used in the treatment of headaches. Excess of acetaminophen present in paracetamol damages the liver.
Celery seed extracts was also found to prevent the growth of tumor cells in mice. Besides, tests have shown that people who consume a large amount of celery seeds are less likely to develop colorectal cancer. Lutein, a chemical found
celery, broccoli, oranges, tomatoes and spinach fights colorectal cancer. It is yet to be proven if
celery alone is capable of fighting this form of cancer or it is a wholesome combination that performs the function.
Celery seeds being rich in flavanoids, coumarins and linoleic acids help in maintaining general good health and hence a reasonable proportion of
celery in everyday diet will help you lead a healthy life.
Dosage:
Children: Use of celery seed extracts are not recommended for children as its effects are not scientifically supported.
Adults: Celery seed are available in the raw form as dried seeds and fresh seeds, tablets, capsules filed with celery seed oil and celery seed extracts. A tea can be prepared by adding crushed seeds to the boiling tea and consuming it thrice a day.
Precautions
• People with kidney inflammation must avoid consuming celery.
• Pregnant women are advised against the consumption of celery seeds and its extracts as it causes muscle contractions in the uterus and may at times result in uterine bleeding.
