Traditional medicine practitioners have long recommended celery to treat colds and flu, digestive disorders, arthritis and water retention. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, prescribed it as a sedative, and the ancient Romans considered celery an aphrodisiac. In modern times, natural medicine practitioners recommend celery for its diuretic properties, and there are limited scientific studies in humans to support its ability to lower blood pressure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Celery contains magnesium, potassium, calcium and phthalides, substances known to reduce the stress hormones in the body that inhibit blood flow in the arteries.
Step 1
Eat three or four stalks of celery each day. Anecdotal evidence suggests eating four stalks of celery for seven days results in a significant drop in blood pressure. Enjoy the celery as is, or fill with a healthy spread, such as peanut butter or hummus.
Step 2
Prepare your own infusion tea by mixing 1 tsp. organic celery seed for each 1 cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for a few minutes and strain. Drink warm and store the leftovers in a refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Step 3
Add carefully washed celery leaves to soups, stir fries and salads. Use leftover stalks and leaves in stockpots to enrich the nutrient value of homemade broth.
Step 4
Wash three or four stalks of celery under water with a stiff vegetable brush. Slice the stalks into long, thin strips. Juice the celery with two carrots and a cored apple. Drink immediately.
Step 5
Buy a good-quality, celery extract blend online or from your local health food store. Read the label and confirm the product is from organically grown celery. Mix the extract with a glass of water, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Tips and Warnings
- Wash fresh celery with a commercial or vinegar and water wash before eating. Place in a glass of water and store in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
- Celery may interfere with other herbs and some prescription medicines. Talk to your doctor if you are taking diuretics or blood-thinning medications. Pregnant and nursing women should not take celery seed.
Things You'll Need
- Celery stalks
- Celery seed
- Celery seed extract
- Purified water
- 8 to 12 oz. water glass
