Parsley
Profile
| Latin Name | Petroselinum sativum |
| Chinese Name | Not Known |
| Family | Umbelliferae |
| Note | Medium |
| Aroma | <Strong> Color: Yellow |
| Parts Distilled | Seeds |
| Regions | Belgium, France, Germany, Holland, Hungary, India |
| Taste | Spicy, Bitter |
| Nature | Warming |
| Affinity | LR/SP/KI |
| Major Chemical Constituents | Myristicin (~60-85%); psoralen |
| Skin Type | Varicosity; can irritate skin |
| Dosage | 4% |
TCM Categories
Functions
- Invigorate blood and promote menstruation/labor.
- Promote appetite and regulate Stomach qi flatulence, nausea, indigestion.
- Drain dampness in the Lower Heater- urinary/gall stones, fibroids (shan jia); lowers blood pressure
Indications
- Blood Stasis in the Uterus (PC-6, BL-17, SP-10, SP-8)
- Damp-Cold in the Lower Heater (CV-3, BL-22, BL-39, SP-9, ST-36)
Topical Applications
- Apply as compress mixed with butter for fibroids, sore breast, and stones.
- Add to blends for emptiness of Luo-passage vessels.
Specific Protocols
- Apply a 4% dilution of Parsley (40%), Cypress (30%), and Ginger (30%) on CV-2, LR-5, SP-8, and SP-10 for uterine fibroids.
Actions
- Diuretic
- Uterine tonic
- Bowel stimulant
- Emmenagogue (a substance that stimulates or increases menstrual flow)
Contraindications & Cautions
- Nursing neurotoxic
- Hepatotoxic
- Not used during pregnancy (apiol induces abortion)
- Not for pre-pubescent children
Additional Comments
- Parsley can deplete potassium due to its diuretic effect.
- Parsley is high in chlorophyll for bad breath and detoxification.
- Parsley contains antihistamine and can be used to treat allergies