11 Surprising Benefits of Parsley Tea and How to Make It

1. Rich in antioxidants

Parsley tea is rich in antioxidants and nutrients including vitamins A, C, K, and folate. It also contains secondary metabolites such as lycopene, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.

Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to the body. These antioxidants help defend the body against chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

2. Helps control blood sugar levels

In some parts of the world, parsley is used as a herbal remedy to help lower blood sugar levels. In one animal study, parsley consumption was linked to a significant improvement in liver health as well as better blood sugar control.

3. Strengthens the immune system

Vitamins A and C in parsley help strengthen immunity and increase leukocyte production, which is important for immune function. In addition, parsley has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help defend against bacterial and fungal infections.

4. High in vitamin C

Vitamin C in parsley helps build collagen in the body, which is key for strengthening bones, muscles, skin, hair, and tendons. Vitamin C also plays an essential role in wound healing and nutrient absorption.

5. Has cancer-fighting properties

Parsley tea contains a range of flavonoids and other chemoprotective compounds that can neutralize carcinogens, preventing tissue damage and apoptosis (cell death) in healthy cells.

Myristicin is one of the volatile compounds found in parsley oil (released in small quantities when brewing), which is directly linked to the prevention of tumor formation, specifically in the lungs, where cancer occurs frequently.

6. Helps regulate the menstrual cycle

Hormonal imbalance plays a key role in the irregularity of menstrual cycles. Parsley contains myristicin and apiole which help boost estrogen production, mitigating the effects of menstruation and helping to regulate monthly periods and lessen their severity.

7. Prevents kidney stones

Parsley helps prevent the formation of stones in the kidneys by making urine more acidic and acting as a diuretic, which increases urine production. Drinking parsley tea can help the body flush out excess toxins, fats, salts, and water and thus reduce strain on the kidneys.

8. Rich source of folic acid

Parsley is rich in folic acid, an essential B vitamin that is important to take during pregnancy because it helps reduce the risk of defective neural tubes in a developing fetus. 

9. Relieves respiratory problems

Parsley tea contains beta-carotene, which helps reduce the risk of asthma and clears debris or residue in the lungs. Other compounds in parsley help loosen mucus (phlegm) that accumulates in the internal lining of the lungs and throat, helping prevent congestion.

10. Improves blood circulation

Parsley tea is rich in iron, which helps improve blood health by improving circulation and preventing the risk of anemia.

The folic acid in parsley also helps maintain healthy blood vessels by neutralizing the effects of homocysteine, which can damage blood vessels and negatively affect heart health.

11. Easy to make and soothing

Parsley tea is a delicious and soothing beverage that is extremely easy to make at home with just a few simple and inexpensive ingredients.

Parsley is generally recognized as safe by the FDA; however, consuming large amounts of parsley can be dangerous. Experts suggest limiting yourself to just 1 cup a day. People who consume too much parsley may experience

• Anemia
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems

Consuming excess amounts of parsley is not recommended for the following people:

• Pregnant women (may induce uterine contractions)
• People taking blood thinners such as warfarin (high levels of vitamin K may reduce the medication's effectiveness)
• People taking diuretics (may cause excess water loss)

Like other herbs, parsley can be used to make a cup of tea that is both delicious and healthy. Although tea bags are available, you can also make parsley tea at home.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons of dried parsley
• 2 cups of water
• Sweeteners such as agave nectar, stevia, or maple syrup (to taste)
• Mint or lemongrass (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

• Bring a pot of water to a boil over medium heat.
• Add the parsley; use a ratio of 1 teaspoon of dried parsley leaves to 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley per cup of water.
• Allow the tea to steep for 5 minutes.
• Strain the tea into a cup using a filter.
• You can try adding a bit of lemon juice to make it more palatable.