Parsley Essential Oil- A comprehensive overview 2023

October 20, 2023

Parsley essential oil is a versatile and beneficial oil that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is extracted from the seeds or leaves of the parsley plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region. Parsley essential oil is known for its detoxifying, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for skincare, haircare, and aromatherapy. In this article, we will explore the history, benefits, and uses of parsley essential oil.

Historical Background

Parsley has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks used it as a medicine and tonic, and it was later consumed by Europeans during the Middle Ages. The word “parsley” is derived from the Greek word “petroselinon,” which means “rock celery.” Parsley essential oil was mostly used by countries across the Mediterranean, but over time grew in popularity and accessibility, and is an oil that now has many uses.

Types and Extraction Methods

Parsley essential oil can be extracted from the seeds or leaves of the parsley plant through various methods. Here are some of the most common types and extraction methods of parsley essential oil:

Steam Distillation: This is the most common method used to extract parsley essential oil. It involves passing steam through the plant material to release the essential oil. The steam is then condensed, and the oil is separated from the water.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction: This method involves using supercritical carbon dioxide to extract the essential oil from the plant material. This method is more efficient than steam distillation and produces a higher yield of essential oil.
Hydrodistillation: This method involves boiling the plant material in water and then collecting the essential oil that is released. This method is commonly used for extracting essential oils from the leaves of the parsley plant.
Solvent Extraction: This method involves using a solvent such as hexane to extract the essential oil from the plant material. This method is not commonly used for parsley essential oil extraction.

The type of extraction method used can affect the percentage and components of the essential oil extracted. For example, a study found that the extraction method used affected the essential oil percentage and components of celery and parsley seeds. It is important to note that the quality of the essential oil can also be affected by the quality of the plant material, mode of extraction, and storage conditions.

Ancient Uses of Parsley Essential Oil

The anti-inflammatory and soothing qualities of parsley essential oil quickly landed it as a staple for treating minor wounds, abrasions, cuts, and bruises. Later on, its benefits for skincare and feminine health were discovered, and parsley essential oil was seen as a holistic treatment for a number of issues.

Modern Discovery

Today, parsley essential oil is mostly used in skincare and aromatherapy, and is a fairly accessible oil on a commercial scale, too. Its benefits include helping reduce cellulite, stretch marks, as well as bruises. Parsley essential oil is also helpful when managing minor pain and inflammation, reducing the presence of unwanted bacterial, viral, and fungal issues, and easing unwanted muscle spasms.

Chemical Composition and Properties

Parsley essential oil is antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, hypotensive, laxative, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, anti-microbial, and anti-rheumatic. It is rich in vitamins A and C, and minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium. The oil has a sweet, warm, woody, and herbaceous aroma.

Parsley Essential Oil Benefits

Skin Care Benefits

Acne Treatment

Parsley essential oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help treat pimples, acne, and skin infections, as well as disinfect pores. It also gradually helps in lessening the appearance of wrinkles, and prevents their occurrence too.

Disinfecting Pores

Parsley essential oil is known for its various medicinal properties, and its antimicrobial makeup makes it beneficial if you’re looking to stop bacteria from spreading topically. A small bottle of parsley essential oil is particularly helpful if you’re in sports or like to travel often, and need a small (but mighty) fix to help you if you have any cuts, bruises, or scrapes along the way.

Detoxification Properties

Parsley essential oil promotes the removal of toxins and other unwanted substances from the body through the urine. This makes it a detoxifier.

Health and Wellness

Diuretic Abilities

Parsley essential oil is best known for its use as a diuretic and its ability to shrink blood vessels. It is beneficial for varicose veins, and increases circulation.

Strengthening Gums

Parsley essential oil is also helpful in strengthening gums and reducing bad breath.

Parsley Essential Oil Capsules

Parsley essential oil capsules are also available in the market. They are used for various health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system.

How to Use Parsley Essential Oil

Topical Application

Parsley essential oil can be applied topically to the skin. It is recommended to dilute the oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil before applying it to the skin. It can be used to treat acne, bruises, and other skin conditions.

Aromatherapy

Parsley essential oil can be used in aromatherapy. It can be diffused in a diffuser or added to a bath to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Parsley Oil Recipe

Parsley essential oil can be added to various recipes, including salads, soups, and stews. It can also be added to smoothies and juices for an added health boost.

Precautions and Side Effects

While parsley essential oil has many benefits, it must be used with extra special care. It is a potential abortifacient and is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding. There is a low risk of skin irritation, and it is recommended to use a dermal maximum of 1.1%. It is also important to note that parsley essential oil should not be ingested in large quantities.

Conclusion

Parsley essential oil is a versatile and beneficial oil that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and has many health benefits, including detoxification, skincare, and aromatherapy. It is important to use parsley essential oil with care and to follow the recommended precautions and dosage.

FAQs

Is parsley oil safe for pregnant women?
Parsley oil is a potential abortifacient and is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Can parsley oil be ingested?
Parsley oil should not be ingested in large quantities.

What are the benefits of parsley oil for the skin?
Parsley oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help treat pimples, acne, and skin infections, as well as disinfect pores. It also gradually helps in lessening the appearance of wrinkles, and prevents their occurrence too.

How can parsley oil be used in aromatherapy?
Parsley oil can be diffused in a diffuser or added to a bath to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

What are the benefits of parsley oil for health and wellness?
Parsley oil is best known for its use as a diuretic and its ability to shrink blood vessels. It is beneficial for varicose veins, and increases circulation.

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