Blood pressure refers to the force pushed against your artery walls as your heart pumps blood. This pressure changes continually, based on your temperature, emotional state, activity levels and dietary foods. High blood pressure is defined as having a systolic pressure of 120 or higher and a diastolic pressure of 139 or higher. Although treating blood pressure must be overseen by your physician, preliminary evidence suggests that celery seed extract does not increase blood pressure, but it may help reduce high blood pressure.
Active Constituents
Celery seed extract contains several active constituents, including flavonoids, linoleic acid, coumarins and volatile oils. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that flavnoids are potent antioxidants found in plants known to protect your body's cells from damaging free radicals, while coumarins work by thinning your blood. Linoleic acid is a form of omega-3 fatty acid, which is an essential fatty acid used to promote healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Effects on Blood Pressure
In an article published in 2009 in “Pharmacognosy Magazine,” researchers found that celery seed extract supports healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to its effects on prostaglandin, or blood lipid, levels. The article also cites a study published in the journal “Integrative Medicine Communications” in which researchers found that lab animals who were given celery seed extract for four weeks experienced a 12 percent reduction in blood pressure. As of the date of publication, studies have not been done on humans, but preliminary evidence suggests that celery seed extract may support blood pressure reduction in those with hypertension.
Suggested Dosage
Although there is no official dosage recommendation to reduce blood pressure, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests consuming 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of celery seed extract up to three times a day. To prevent dehydration, due to its diuretic qualities, drink plenty of fluids while supplementing with celery seed extract.
Safety Considerations
As with any natural supplement, talk with your doctor before starting a supplementation routine, especially if you’re taking medications. Pregnant women should not consume celery seed extract, as it may cause uterine bleeding, which increases the chances of a miscarriage. If you have kidney inflammation or are allergic to birch pollen, do not consume this extract.
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