This vegetable, commonly sold in Vietnamese markets but little known, is a 'medicine' for cleansing the kidneys and reducing blood fat.

Celery, scientifically known as Apium glaveolens , belongs to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. The plant was introduced to Vietnam and is now widely cultivated in many places as a vegetable.

According to Dr. Huynh Tan Vu, a specialist at the University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City (facility 3) , scientists in Europe discovered that celery has diuretic effects since the 16th century. There, people commonly used celery as food and as a diuretic medicine. 

Celery has diuretic properties.

In Vietnam, according to Professor Dr. Do Tat Loi (author of the book "Vietnamese Medicinal Plants and Herbs"), celery has the effect of lowering blood pressure.

According to Dr. Vu, celery contains calcium, iron, phosphorus, and is rich in protein. Celery also contains many free amino acids, essential oils, mannitol, inositol, and various vitamins. The abundant potassium and sodium in celery help the body regulate fluids and stimulate urine production, thereby easily eliminating toxins. Like many other green vegetables, celery also has a natural laxative effect.

Celery has a high water content (over 90%), so it helps to eliminate excess toxins. It is also a food that naturally promotes kidney health.

Dr. Vu stated: " Celery leaf extract has the effect of lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure, reducing blood lipids, thereby helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Importantly, celery does not cause a drop in blood pressure or heart rate in normal individuals . "

Not only does celery have medicinal properties, but its fruit also has many beneficial effects . According to Doctor Vu, celery fruit contains 90.5% water, 1.95% nitrogen compounds, 0.07% fat, 1.15% cellulose, etc., and yields 2-3% essential oil when distilled. Celery seed extract helps lower blood pressure by slowing heart rate and dilating blood vessels.

Celery juice is good for your health. (Image: Internet)

Lower cholesterol

Celery is highly valuable for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health because it has the ability to lower cholesterol. Furthermore, it contains 3-n-butylphthalide (abbreviated as BuPh) – a compound that plays a role in reducing blood lipids in the body.

Anti-inflammatory

Celery seeds have long been used in folk medicine as an antibacterial remedy. Research conducted in 2009 showed that celery seeds contain a special active ingredient that can significantly reduce bacterial growth.

Reduce inflammation

The antioxidants and polysaccharides in celery act as anti-inflammatory agents. Therefore, celery contributes to overall health, especially in the elderly, by combating the harmful effects of free radicals that cause inflammation – a factor in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and arthritis.

Preventing ulcers

Celery may help prevent and reduce the risk of painful ulcers. Research conducted in 2010 found that celery contains ethanol extract – a substance that plays a special role in protecting the digestive tract lining from ulceration.

Liver protection

A study conducted in Egypt showed that when mice were fed red celery, barley, and chicory, their bodies reduced the amount of dangerous fat accumulated in their livers. The more of these foods they ate, the healthier their livers became. Therefore, scientists also assert that celery will have a similar effect on the human body.

Preventing urinary tract infections

Thanks to its ability to reduce uric acid and stimulate urine production, celery can combat bacterial infections in the reproductive organs and digestive tract. In addition, this food also helps prevent urinary tract infections, cysts, kidney disease, and bladder disorders.

Celery contains the compound polyacetylene, which helps prevent cell damage. 

Cancer prevention potential

Celery belongs to the same family as other vegetables with cancer-fighting properties such as dill, carrots, radishes, and parsley. These vegetables contain the compound polyacetylene, which helps prevent cell damage. Several studies have shown that polyacetylene can help reduce toxins and fight the causes of cancer, especially leukemia, colon cancer, and breast cancer.

Some effective remedies using celery.

Lowering blood pressure: Every day, use a whole fresh celery stalk, finely chopped, boiled in water, and drink in several portions throughout the day. If fresh celery is unavailable, dried celery can be used gradually.

Note that you should stop using it as soon as the results stabilize and have a follow-up examination if necessary; do not overuse it.

Treatment for high blood cholesterol : Use equal amounts of celery and black apples, boil them in water and drink the decoction daily. Alternatively, patients can also drink celery juice daily for 30-45 days.

Treatment for cloudy urine : Cut celery roots close to the base and boil them in water to make a drink. Drink on an empty stomach in the morning and evening. Use continuously for 3-7 days, and the urine will return to normal.

To treat asthma, tuberculosis, pleuritis, and bronchitis: Boil celery seeds in water and drink the resulting decoction.

Treating insomnia : Celery contains alkaline substances that can reduce stress and soothe the nerves. Including celery in your dinner dishes can help you sleep better.

According to traditional medicine, people with low blood pressure should not consume celery frequently . People with weak spleen function who consume celery may damage the body's vital energy and affect their digestive system.