Celery seed power comes from its vast supply of various vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Long before celery was used for food, the seeds were used as a medicinal herb in homeopathic medicine.
Nutrition and Celery Seeds
The seeds are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps support the immune system and may reduce symptoms and severity of the common cold. Vitamin C has also been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
Due to active compounds called phthalides, celery seeds have the potential for reducing high blood pressure. These compounds appear to help relax the muscles around the arteries, which may allow for easier dilation and blood flow. Potassium, calcium and magnesium, which are present in the seeds, are also associated with reduced blood pressure.
Medicinal Uses of Celery Seeds
A primary use of celery seeds is as a diuretic. The seeds stimulate urine production and, thus, assist in the elimination of excess fluid. The high content of potassium and sodium is important to regulate the balance of fluid.
Compounds known as coumarins give the seeds the potential to reduce the risk of cancer. Coumarins enhance the activity of white blood cells in the fight against potentially harmful cells, including cancer cells. Additionally, compounds known as acetylenics have been shown to stop the formation or growth of tumor cells.
The celery seed extract is used in the treatment of arthritis and gout, muscle spasm, to calm nerves, and to reduce inflammation. However, more studies are needed in these areas to determine the exact effectiveness.
Celery seeds are available as fresh or dried seeds, as tablets, and capsules filled with celery seed oil and celery seed extract. The essential oil is extracted from the seed by a process known as steam distillation.
As a dietary supplement, celery seed appears to be safe for adults. However, according to an article by the University of Maryland Medical Center, “There are no known scientific reports on the use of celery seed in children, so it is not recommended for children under 18.”
Possible interactions exist for those taking certain prescribed medications, such as a diuretic (water pill) or an anticoagulant (blood-thinning). The diuretic properties in supplements combined with a water pill could make the medication stronger, resulting in dehydration. Likewise, combining supplements and an anticoagulant could make the medication stronger and increase the risk of excessive bleeding.
Adding celery seed power to your diet is really very simple. Try some of the seeds in potato salad, as a seasoning to soups or stews, sandwiches, or even homemade salad dressing. Get creative with ways to use the tiny seeds, as the benefits could be huge.
This article is intended for general information purposes only. If you have questions or specific concerns, please consult your health-care provider.
Sources:
Nutrition-Info.com, "Celery Seed" (accessed 4/16/10)
Nutrasanus.com, "Celery Seed Extract" (accessed 4/16/10)
UMM.edu, "Celery seed" (accessed 4/16/10)
Vivian Wright - Vivian Wright lives in a small town in Central Ohio with her husband, Paul, and their cat, Toby. After years of working as a legal ...
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