Apium graveolens
Action: Antirheumatic, urinary antiseptic, diuretic, sedative, alterative.
Systems Affected: Kidneys, bladder, blood, nerves.
Preparation and Dosage (thrice daily): Dried seed, dose 0.5-2.0 grams by decoction.
Celery seed is obtained from the herb known as Wild Celery or Smallage. Native to southern Europe, it is the plant from which the celery we eat today was developed.
Among other things the herb contains apiol, minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, sulphur, iron, silicon, sodium and magnesium, plus some amounts of vitamins A, B-complex and C.
Celery seed stimulates kidney function and the excretion of uric acid and is alterative in its effect on the bloodstream. For these reasons it is often used in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis and gout, being specifically indicated for rheumatoid arthritis with mental depression.
Celery seed is beneficial in nervousness and depression, and is used for inflammation of the urinary tract, most usually in combination with other diuretics and with demulcent herbs such as Marshmallow root.
The therapeutic action of Celery seed seems to be potentiated by Dandelion root, for which reason the two herbs are often used together.
Cautionary Notes: The level at which Celery seed is tolerated varies from person to Person. Because of its strong effect on the body caution should be exercised in ascertaining the optimum dosage. A good dose î commence with is 1 teaspoonful of the ground or crushed seed to a cup of water per day.
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