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Focus on Herbs: Celery Seedby
Lynne Latella Celery, a good source of
potassium and vitamin
C, has been used for over 3,000 years. Related to carrots, fennel,
parsley and
anise, it is the second largest salad crop in the The ancient Greeks gave
celery
elixirs to winning athletes. In fact, the Greeks, Romans and Chinese
used
celery as a medicine, not for food. Along with eastern Indian doctors,
they
prescribed it for edema, flu, colds, indigestion and arthritis.
Nineteenth
century American herbalists, however, were not impressed with celery,
and
prescribed it only if parsley was unavailable. Celery seed has been
known to help with
arthritis and gout because it lowers uric acid levels and dissolves
crystallization. It has been used to regulate blood pressure, reduce
cholesterol and protect against certain forms of cancer. For women’s
health,
the seeds may be helpful in promoting menstruation. Because of its
diuretic
properties, it can promote temporary weight loss and may assist in
relieving
congestive heart failure. Chemicals in celery seed are known to have a
sedative
effect on animals by relieving insomnia and anxiety. Those with diabetes or
heart
problems, children under 2 years of age, adults over 65 years of age
and
pregnant women should be cautious about using celery seed without
consulting a
physician. The Coop carries celery, celery seeds and derivatives in
whole and ground
bulk forms, in capsules, and in tinctures. Celery Tea Pour boiling water over 1
teaspoon
of crushed celery seeds and steep 10 to 20 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups
per day. |
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