Parsley, More Than Just a Garnish

Most people think of parsley as just being an ornamental garnish on their plates at restaurants that can be used an an after-meal breath freshener, but parsley has many other medicinal uses.

Curly Leaf Parsley

Parsley has long been used in history to help to flush out the kidneys. It is a strong diuretic and one of the most popular uses it is known for is to help dispel kidney stones or as a preventative measure for them. It is basically a great tonic for any bladder or kidney complaint, helping also with kidney and bladder/urinary tract infections. It can even be used in weight loss. Parsley has been noted to aid with asthma, coughs, indigestion, and other general lung and digestive issues. The seeds can be used to help ease rheumatoid arthritis.

Parsley can be used fresh, dried, or as a tea. Parsley tea is one of the most popular forms of use and the recipe can be changed at whim according to the ailment being treated. Add ginger for digestive problems, mullein for bronchial issues, etc. As parsley is a strong remedy, the tea should not be used for more than two days at a time. Add the fresh or dried leaves to salads or other recipes, or just chew after dinner for the added breath freshener effect.

Italian Parsley

There are two varieties usually seen in supermarkets:  Curly leaf (the most well known) and Italian, or plain leaf. Both are effective for the above remedies. The plain-leaf variety is easier to dry and can be dried in the sun; the curly will need to be dried in an oven. Both are very easy to grow, liking partial shade. Parsley can even be grown indoors in a pot on your windowsill. Add this plant to your garden and be sure to dry plenty of leaves for winter use or grow inside.