Celery, scientifically known as Apium graveolens, belongs to the Apiaceae family (Umbelliferae). This plant has been introduced to Vietnam and is now widely cultivated in many areas for culinary purposes.
Dr. Huỳnh Tấn Vũ, Specialist Doctor II at the University Medical Center in Ho Chi Minh City (Facility 3), states that since the 16th century, scientists in Europe have discovered that celery has diuretic effects. Here, people commonly use celery not only as food but also as a diuretic medication.
Celery has diuretic effects.
In Vietnam, according to Professor Dr. Đỗ Tất Lợi (author of the book “Vietnamese Medicinal Plants and Herbs”), celery is effective in lowering blood pressure.
According to Dr. Vũ, celery contains calcium, iron, phosphorus, and is rich in protein. Celery also contains a variety of free amino acids, essential oils, mannitol, inositol, and numerous vitamins. The abundant potassium and sodium in celery help the body regulate fluid balance and stimulate urine production, thereby facilitating toxin elimination. Like many other green vegetables, celery also has natural laxative effects.
With a high water content (over 90%), celery aids in flushing out excess harmful substances. This makes it a food that naturally promotes kidney health.
Dr. Vũ mentions: “Celery leaf extract has the effect of lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, reducing blood lipids, consequently lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Notably, celery does not cause blood pressure or heart rate drops in healthy individuals.”
Not only does celery have medicinal properties, but the fruit of the celery plant also offers numerous benefits. Dr. Vũ explains that celery fruit contains 90.5% water, 1.95% nitrogen compounds, 0.07% fat, 1.15% cellulose, and yields 2-3% essential oil when distilled. Celery seed extract helps lower blood pressure by slowing heart rate and dilating blood vessels.
Celery juice is good for health. (Image: Internet).
Cholesterol Reduction
Celery is highly valued for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health due to its ability to lower cholesterol levels. Furthermore, it contains 3-n-butylphthalide (abbreviated as BuPh) – a compound that plays a role in reducing blood lipids.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Celery seeds have long been used in folk medicine as an antibacterial remedy. A study conducted in 2009 found that celery seeds contain special compounds capable of significantly inhibiting bacterial growth.
Inflammation Reduction
The antioxidants and polysaccharides in celery act as anti-inflammatory agents. Therefore, celery contributes to overall health, especially for the elderly, by combating the damaging effects of free radicals that lead to inflammation – a factor in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular issues, cancer, and arthritis…
Ulcer Prevention
Celery may help prevent and reduce the risk of painful ulcer formation. A study conducted in 2010 discovered that celery contains ethanol extract, which plays a crucial role in protecting the digestive tract from ulceration.
Liver Protection
A study conducted in Egypt indicated that when rats were fed red celery, barley, and kale, their bodies reduced the dangerous fat accumulation in the liver. The more these foods are consumed, the healthier the rats’ livers became. Thus, scientists assert that celery will have similar functions in the human body.
Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections
Due to its ability to lower uric acid and stimulate urine production, celery can combat bacterial infections in the reproductive organs and digestive tract. Additionally, this food helps prevent urinary tract infections, cysts, kidney diseases, and bladder disorders.
Celery contains polyacetylene compounds that help prevent cell damage.
Anti-cancer Properties
Celery, related to other vegetables known for their cancer-preventive properties such as fennel, carrots, beets, and parsley, contains polyacetylene compounds that help prevent cell damage. Some studies have demonstrated that polyacetylene can help reduce toxins while combating cancer-causing agents, particularly leukemia, intestinal cancer, and breast cancer.
Notable Remedies Using Celery
Lowering Blood Pressure: Use an entire fresh celery stalk, chopped, to brew water and consume it throughout the day. If fresh celery is unavailable, dried celery can be used instead.
Note: It is advisable to stop as soon as stable results are achieved and consult for evaluation if necessary, as overuse should be avoided.
Managing High Blood Lipids: Use equal amounts of celery and black apples, boil them to drink daily. Alternatively, patients can consume celery juice daily for a duration of 30 to 45 days.
Addressing Cloudy Urine: Boil the root of celery cut close to the base and drink the water. Consume on an empty stomach in the morning and evening. Continuous use for 3 to 7 days will normalize urine clarity.
Treating Asthma, Tuberculosis, Pleural Inflammation, and Bronchitis: Use celery seeds to prepare a decoction for drinking.
Combating Insomnia: Celery contains alkaline substances that can reduce stress and soothe the nerves. Incorporating celery dishes into dinner can promote better sleep.
Note: According to traditional medicine, individuals with low blood pressure should not regularly consume celery. People with weak spleen and digestion should be cautious as celery may harm the central digestive system.
