What Are The Benefits Of Celery Seeds?

The celery plant is slender, with white flowers and green leaves, and it grows up to 3 feet in height. The seeds of the celery plant are found inside the flowers and are used in North America primarily as a diuretic. Celery seeds provide other health benefits, however, and they have been used medicinally for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Nutritional Benefits

Celery seeds contain several nutritional substances including calcium, volatile oils and the omega-6 essential fatty acid "linoleic acid." They also contain flavanoids, which are antioxidant-rich plant pigments that help to protect the cells and DNA from free-radical damage. In addition, celery seeds contain a chemical compound called coumarin, which helps to thin the blood and keep it from becoming sticky. According to "Nursing Herbal Remedies Handbook," celery seeds also have anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant and antifungal properties.

Uses

Ayurvedic practitioners use celery seeds to treat colds, flu and bronchitis, as well as to enhance digestion and relieve gas and colic. Celery seeds are also used to promote liver and spleen health and to treat diseases related to the two organs. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, preliminary research suggests that celery seeds can help protect the liver from damaging substances such as the pain reliever acetaminophen. In addition, celery seeds are used to treat urinary tract infections and other bladder and kidney disorders, rheumatism, high blood pressure, gout, calculi and diabetes. Celery seeds have relaxing and calming properties and are therefore used to reduce nervous restlessness as well as muscle spasms. These uses are based primarily on anecdotal and not scientific evidence, however.

Cancer Prevention

Carcinogens are cancer-causing substances, and celery seeds have anti-carcinogenic properties. The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but DrugsArea website states that celery seeds contain an enzyme called glutathione S-transferase that helps to break down toxic and potentially carcinogenic substances in the body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, preliminary studies done on mice have confirmed that celery seeds can also help to prevent the formation of cancerous tumors.

Additional Information and Precautions

Celery seeds are available in capsule, liquid extract and tincture forms. The fresh and dried seeds are also sold and can be made into a tea. To make celery seed tea, steep 1 to 2 tsp. of crushed seeds in 1 cup of water for 10 to 15 minutes, and drink it three times daily. Celery seeds may cause sedation, respiratory difficulties, dermatitis and allergic reactions. They may also increase your sensitivity to the sun and interact with certain medications. Pregnant women and people with kidney disorders should not supplement with celery seeds.