April 23, 2002

CELERY

Latin Name: Apium graveolens

Alternate Names: Smallage, Marsh Water Parsley

Family: APIACEAE

Parts Used: Seeds.

Properties: Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Antifungal, Antirheumatic, Appetizer, Aromatic, Carminative, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Galactagogue, Hypotensive, Nervine, Sedative, Sudorific, Tonic, Urinary Antiseptic.

Internal Uses: Arthritis, Asthma, Bronchitis, Colds, Fever, Flatulence, Flu, Hyperacidity, Hypertension, Insomnia, Kidney Stones, Neuralgia, Neurological Disorders, Obesity, Pulmonary Edema, Rheumatism, Toxemia

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules

Celery seed can help soothe the nerves and relieve pain. Use celery seed to aid in the elimination of uric acid. Consuming celery seed in food aids the digestion of protein.

Topical Uses: Arthritis, Gout

Topical Applications: Poultice, Compress and Salves for arthritis or gout.

Culinary uses: Seeds used in egg dishes, bread, soups, stews and Bloody Marys. Used in salt-free seasonings.

Energetics: Bitter, Sweet, Cool, Moist.

Chemical Constituents: Furancoumarins, (bergapten), essential oil (apiol), flavonoid, glycosides.

Contraindications: Large amounts of Celery Seed may increase photosensitivity. Use in moderation during pregnancy.

-- Phil in KS (mac0328@planetkc.com), April 23, 2002