A-Z Challenge -- -"P"

  For the past many years I have had an interest...no, make that a fascination with herbs, spices and seasonings. -  How they were used by our ancestors centuries ago for a variety of ailments, and how they are used today to enhance your favorite recipe.
With this in mind I am attempting to present a different herb, spice or seasoning  for each day of the  A-Z Challenge. Please drop by often and perhaps we both will learn something new.

To learn more about these terms check here.


                   "P" is for Parsley

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Although there was never any doubt which herb I wanted to write about, I must admit that paprika,and poppy seed were definitely in the running.

PARSLEY

The delicious and vibrant taste and wonderful healing properties of parsley are often ignored in its popular role as a table garnish. Highly nutritious, parsley can be found year round in your local supermarket.

Parsley is the world's most popular herb. It derives its name from the Greek word meaning "rock celery" (parsley is a relative to celery). It is a biennial plant that will return to the garden year after year once it is established.

There are more than 30 varieties fo parsley but the most common are curly-leaf and the more pungent  or flat-leaf parsley. The flat leaf has more flavor that the curly parsley and is preferred for cooking.  Dried parsley has little flavor at all. In ancient times parsley wreaths were used to ward off drunkenness. (Good luck with that one!!)

Medicinal uses of Parsley

Parsley is a vitamin and mineral powerhouse, and as such should be part of every medicinal garden.  Indoors, it adds greenery and makes an attractive, edible garnish for the kitchen shelf during the winter.  Outdoors, it can be planted with other herbs or flowers, and makes a pretty, green accent.  

Parsley contains a large amount of chlorophyll, and as such is a natural breath sweetener.  Eat the leaves right off the plant to combat breath odors. 

Sources:
WHfoods.com

Disclaimer

The material provided on this site is designed for information and educational purposes only. The materials are not intended to be a self diagnostic and/or self treatment tool. I encourage you to use this information as a tool for discussing your condition with your health practitioner.    *The medicinal usages are for informational and educational purposes only*