Spirit Food – Parsley
ORIGIN
Parsley is the most mentioned herb in the world. It is thought to have originated somewhere in the Mediterranean region. Parsley has traditionally been used in the Mediterranean region for toothaches, insect bites, bruises, and skin disorders.
Tales have been told about its lengthy germination saying that it was slow because the seeds had to travel to hell and back two, three, seven, or nine times before they could grow. In ancient times, parsley was dedicated to the goddess of the underworld.
The Greeks believed parsley was the blood of their hero Archemorus and they crowned winners of major sporting events with wreaths made of it.
The Romans placed parsley on their tables and hung it around their necks to ward off intoxication from wine and alcohol!
By the Middle Ages, Parsley was given medicinal credit for curing a number of ailments.
CHAKRA – HEART
PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Parsley is packed full of Vitamin K, in fact, one cup of chopped parsley provides 1,230 per cent of your daily recommended intake.
Parsley helps build stronger bones by supporting bone-building cells called osteoblasts. This also activates certain proteins that increase bone mineral density by improving calcium absorption in the body and reducing calcium excretion in the urine.
Parsley contains one of the highest concentrations of myricetin per 100grams. The myricetin present in parsley has been examined for use in the treatment and prevention of diabetes
For many centuries, it has been used as a diuretic. It helps against kidney stones, gallbladder stones, and urinary tract infections.
Parsley, with its rich potassium content, helps mineral imbalance. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-hepatotoxicity properties that help reduce internal inflammation and also help cleanse the liver.
Parsley, abundant in vitamin C and antioxidants, has potent collagen producing and skin brightening properties. The herb helps to reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars. Parsley also has the ability to balance oil production so is an excellent remedy for acne.
It is a great digestive aid. It helps to relieve flatulence, constipation, indigestion, nausea and bloating.
Vitamins such as vitamin A, C, K, folate, and niacin, act on different aspects of the immune system. Vitamin A acts directly on lymphocytes or white blood cells and helps night blindness. Vitamin K works on clotting the blood. Vitamin C ensures healthy teeth and gums.
The chlorophyll contained in it has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties as well.
The high iron content in parsley treats anaemia. With the Vitamin C present, it aids in better absorption of iron.
SPIRITUAL BENEFITS
Take parsley to bring you into an affinity with your yin or feminine side.
In meditation, connect with parsley and invoke Aphrodite or Venus. It promotes fertility and can be used as an aphrodisiac.
Parsley was used in Passover as a symbol of a new beginning because it was one of the first herbs to pop up in the spring.
It is a sign of new life. Eat parsley anytime you wish to start fresh or want to create something new.
CONNECT WITH PARSLEY
Parsley can be added to smoothies and juices.
Use parsley as a garnish on soups and salads.
Blend it into oil dressings.
Add it to roast vegetables with some olive oil.
Sprinkle parsley on your soup.
For an effective acne mask, mix a few sprigs of the herb, 2 teaspoons of organic apple cider vinegar, and a tablespoon of honey in a blender. This helps to soothe and soften the skin.
The essential oil can also be applied to the stomach area for relief from cramps, bed-wetting, gas, fluid retention, high blood pressure, indigestion, kidney disease, obesity and prostate disorders.