Umbelliferae

Habitat: Native to the Eastern Mediterranean, cultivated worldwide.

Collection: The root is collected in the autumn from two year oldplants. the leaves can be used any time during the growing season.

Part Used: The tap root, leaves and seeds.

Constituents: * Volatile oil, containing apiole, myristicin,[[beta]]-phellandrene,

p-mentha-l,3,8-triene, 4- isopropenyl-l-methylbenzene,2-(p-toluyl)propan-2-ol

* Coumarins

* Flavonoids

* Phthalides

* Vitamins.

Actions: Diuretic, expectorant, emmenagogue, carminative,anti-spasmodic, hypotensive.

Indications: The fresh herb, so widely used in cookery, is a richsource of vitamin C. Medicinally, Parsley has three main areas of usage.Firstly, it is an effective diuretic, helping the body get rid of excess waterand so may be used wherever such an effect is desired. Remember, however, thatthe cause of the problem must be sought and treated -don't just treat symptoms.The second area of use is as an emmenagogue stimulating the menstrual process.It is advisable not to use parsley in medicinal dosage during pregnancy asthere may be excessive stimulation of the womb. The third use is as acarminative, easing flatulence and the colic pains that may accompany it.CAUTION: Do not use during pregnancy in medicinal dosage.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water ontol-2 teaspoonfuls of the leaves or root and let infuse for 5-l0 minutes in aclosed container. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: take 1-2 mlof the tincture three times a day.