the power of parsley
Parsley is MUCH more than a garnish – this common herb (found year-round at almost any supermarket) adds not only great taste to many dishes, but powerful healing properties for your body.
Parsley contains two types of unusual components that provide unique health benefits: volatile oil components, which qualify parsley as a “chemoprotective” food and, in particular, one that can help neutralize particular types of carcinogens (like those from cigarettes and charcoal grill smoke); and flavonoids, which have been shown to function as antioxidants that help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells.
In addition to its volatile oils and flavonoids, parsley is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as folic acid (one of the most important B vitamins), making it especially good for people who either have, or wish to prevent, atherosclerosis (which leads to strokes and heart attacks), diabetic heart disease, colon cancer or cervical cancer. Its anti-inflammatory properties have also been shown to protect against rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
PLUS chew on a sprig for an instant breath-freshener or to relieve digestive upset.
The two most popular varieties are curly parsley (most often used as garnish) and Italian flat leaf parsley, featured in these delicious recipes:
easy chimichurri sauce | tantilizing tabouleh (middle eastern salad)
Bon appetit!