Celery Health Benefits

Celery belongs to the Umbelliferae family and its botanical name is Apium graveolens. It is a special medicinal plant which provides great benefits to our health. Initially this herb was highly valued for its medicinal and aphrodisiac properties but nowadays the whole plant is used for therapeutic purposes. Due to its rich taste it is normally used in foods. It is also used in the prevention and treatment of diseases and cures us from many ailments. Some of the celery health benefits are mentioned below.

Celery is packed with vital minerals and vitamins such as iron, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and Vitamins A, C, E, K, B1, B2 and B6. Celery contains a compound known as phtalides which helps in relaxing the muscles surrounding the arteries. It dilates the blood vessels and helps smooth blood flow. Thus celery lowers your blood pressure significantly. Presence of high amount of calcium also contributes effectively in lowering your blood pressure. You can either eat celery raw or drink its juice to lower your blood pressure. Celery also soothes your nerves and gives you the effect of calmness.

At least eight families of anticancer compounds such as acetylenics, phenolic acids, coumarins etc are present in celery. These anticancer components of celery destroy the free radicals and prevent you from certain cancers. The activities of certain white blood cells are enhanced by coumarins and free radicals are prevented from damaging your body cells. Acetylenics compound inhibit the growth of tumor cells and the action of prostaglandins that promotes tumor growth, is blocked by the phenolic acids. Celery is also rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids possess antioxidant properties and thus prevent you from arteriosclerosis, cancer and thrombosis.

Celery juice is effective in lowering the total cholesterol as well as bad cholesterol. Its high Vitamin C content boosts your immune system and also promotes your cardiovascular health. It can be effectively used for treating arthritis and muscular pains. It provides you relief from the inflammations like gout, bronchitis, asthma and osteoarthritis. Its mineral contents balance your body’s pH and neutralize acidity.

Celery eliminates toxins from your body and promotes normal functioning of your kidney. It is good for the diabetic patients and people who want to lose their weight. It is very beneficial for the health of your eyes, hair and skin. It has an excellent diuretic effect and helps to regulate your body fluid.