Side Effects The German Commission E Monographs reports that
allergic skin reaction and mucous membrane reactions have occasionally been reported.
There are no known interactions with other
drugs.
Safety Issues Avoid taking parsley if you are
pregnant or trying to conceive as it can stimulate the muscles of the uterus.
Parsley should also be avoided by people who suffer from inflammatory kidney conditions.
History of Parsley This easily recognized plant is a hardy biennial, and is often used as a
garnish for culinary purposes. It is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Parsley was a popular herb in the times of the
Ancient Greeks and Romans when it was often used as part of a ritual or ceremony. It was
given to gladiators to promote their fighting skills, and eaten at funerals feasts and
planted on graves to bring good luck in the after life to the deceased. It was also
carried by Romans as protection.
Early Europeans used parsley to treat a variety
of ailments including fluid retention, urinary stones, liver complaints and even malaria.
Modern herbalists recommend parsley for several
purposes, as a diuretic, to stimulate and improve digestion, as a tonic, and to regulate
or promote menstruation. They also give parsley to stimulate contractions during
childbirth and to increase the flow of breast milk.
