MEDICAL BENEFITS OF APIUM GRAVEOLENS (CELERY HERB)

Abstract

Celery (Apium graveolens) is an alimentary herb as well as a special medicinal plant. Celery leaves are used for spicing up foods and drinks such as cocktails. It contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K, P and minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc. Vitamin C contained by celery strengthens the immunologic system and at the same time makes the body more resistant against new diseases. Calcium, potassium and magnesium act towards the same goal, straightening the body. Along with magnesium, iron is effective in alleviating the effects of anemia. Celery has the ideal quantities of iron and magnesium to stop oncological diseases from progressing. The juice extracted from the petioles can be used for edema, rheumatic tendencies, gout, flatulence, chronic pulmonary catarrh, tendencies toward overweight and lack of appetite. It is a strong diuretic, and is used as a urinary antiseptic, mainly because of the volatile oil apiol. Celery can be helpful in treating skin problems, when it is used raw, or prepared as tea. Celery seed decoction is used for bronchitis, rheumatism, and as a sedative. Seeds are also used as a blood purifier, and are very helpful in treating arthritis. Oil extracted from the root can restore sexual potency affected by illness. 

KEY WORDS: Apium graveolens, Celery, Antioxidants, Seeds, Liver