Parsley, a flowering herb belonging to the family Apiaceae is used mostly in European, American, and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Dried parsley is commercially available in two forms: flat leaf and curly leaf parsley. Both these versions are also known as Italian and French parsley respectively. The first one has a stronger flavor, thus used as an ingredient in cooked dishes or salads. While French parsley is used as a garnishing element. In this article, we will discuss the potential health benefits of dried parsley. Keep on reading.
Dried parsley has antibacterial properties:
According to some recently published studies, dried parsley possesses antibacterial properties, effective against salmonella and listeria.
Dried parsley regulates blood sugar:
This is one of the major benefits of consuming dried parsley. Dried parsley is often consumed with tea to decrease blood sugar in middle eastern countries. Apart from hypoglycemic effects, hepatoprotective properties are also observed in dried parsley.
Dried parsley improves cardiovascular health:
If you are suffering from cardiovascular issues, start consuming dried parsley, they are enriched with vitamin B complex and folate. These compounds reduce the risks of heart ailments. According to reports, most patients suffering from cardiovascular issues also have folate insufficiency. Homocysteine, an amino acid responsible for promoting heart diseases, get functionally affected due to the presence of folate.
Dried parsley provides anti-inflammatory effects:
Regular consumption of dried Parsley reduces risks of inflammation, due to the abundance of antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E. Dried parsley is effective against arthritis also.
Dried parsley improves eye health:
Bestowed with vitamin A, beta carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein, daily consumption of dried parsley can improve your eyesight. This is also helpful in preventing macular degeneration, which has had no cure till now.
Parsley tea is good for your skin:
Eager to get radiant and youthful skin? Try dried parsley with tea. This herbal tea reduces wrinkles and age-related fine lines and increases collagen production. You can also add dried parsley to the salad. Skin health is improved due to the presence of antioxidants.
Dried parsley prevents kidney stones formation:
Kidney stones are nothing but mineral deposits promoting severe pain in the belly or backside. One recent study has confirmed that dried parsley can prevent mineral deposition in the kidney. It also improves the frequency of urination due to its diuretic properties.
Other benefits of dried parsley:
Due to the abundance of flavonoids, the risk for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases decreases. Furthermore, parsley in dried form is a good source of vitamin K, which promotes bone health.
As you start consuming Dried parsley, water release from the body decreases. So, don't consume it in excess. Also, pregnant women should stay away from dried parsley.