Grow parsley in your garden

Parsley has a therapeutic effect. Parsley is a diuretic that purifies the blood and accelerates the excretion of toxins. It stimulates appetite and aids digestion and metabolism. The herb can also ease bloating, stomach cramps and nausea, as well as relieve arthritis symptoms. Eaten regularly, it reduces heart rate and lowers blood pressure. To keep your breath fresh, chew on fresh parsley leaves. And for treatment of kidney stones, brew up some parsley tea.

Parsley also fights osteoporosis. To fight osteoporosis, sometimes high doses of calcium are taken in supplement form. However, this can impair the body's absorption of manganese, which helps build bone. But parsley enhances manganese absorption, particularly when it is eaten with foods containing copper and zinc, such as shellfish and whole grains.

Parsley contains essential oils, the most important one, apiole, is a kidney stimulant. Because these essential oils can stimulate uterine contractions, pregnant women should avoid eating large quantities of it. But, after the baby is born, parsley can help tone the uterus and promote lactation.