Parsley, or Petroselinum crispum, is an herb indigenous to the Mediterranean region. Usually the leaves of parsley are used as a garnish or in flavoring cooked food. Parsley seeds may be boiled and steeped to create parsley tea. Pregnant women may safely ingest moderate amounts of parsley leaf. Parsley tea, however, may pose a threat for pregnant women and should be avoided altogether. Consult with your medical adviser regarding the proper intake of parsley.
Active Chemical Compounds
The oil found in parley contains apiol and myristicin and is more heavily concentrated in the seeds of the plant than the leaves. Creighton University Medical Center reports that these chemical compounds may induce uterine contraction and lead to preterm labor. New York University's Langone Medical Center states that the myristicin found in parsley may also have a damaging effect on the fetus as it may cross the placenta and increase its heart rate. Furthermore, extracted apiol has been used in the past to abort unwanted pregnancies and induce menstruation.
Nutritional Content
Andrew Weil, M.D., reports that parsley is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. One cup of chopped parsley provides 101 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin A, 133 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C and 1,230 of the recommended daily value of vitamin K. According to Nancy Hudson, R.D., writing on MayoClinic.com, pregnant women are recommended to have a daily intake of 85 mg of vitamin C. Melinda Johnson, R.D., adds on the same website that pregnant women who consume excessive amounts of vitamin C may risk a preterm birth or birth defects such as scurvy. Medline Plus notes that moderate amounts of vitamin K pose no danger to pregnant women; however, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised for higher amounts of vitamin K.
Considerations
Although parsley tea may pose a threat to pregnant women, Gerard M. DiLeo, Ob. Gyn. and contributor to BabyZone.com, states that parsley as a garnish is completely safe to eat as it doesn't contain the amount of oils necessary to stimulate uterine contractions. Additional side effects associated with consumption of parsley oil include kidney damage, headaches, loss of balance, renal damage and convulsions, according to Drugs.com.
Bottom Line
Although the recommended dosage of parsley for pregnant women has not yet been established, parsley tea should be avoided during pregnancy and while nursing. As a garnish, medical professionals agree it is safe for consumption; however, it is prudent to discuss your pregnancy needs with your medical adviser prior to consumption of parsley.
