Evidence supporting the use of: Parsley
For the body system: Uterus

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) has a long history of traditional use in supporting women’s reproductive health, including the uterus. In various folk medicine systems, parsley has been used as an emmenagogue—an agent thought to stimulate menstrual flow. Traditional herbalists have used parsley tea or extracts for menstrual irregularities, delayed menstruation, and as a mild uterine tonic. These uses are largely based on anecdotal reports and historical texts rather than modern scientific validation.

Some of parsley’s traditional utility is attributed to its content of volatile oils such as apiol and myristicin, which were believed to stimulate uterine contractions. However, scientific research to confirm these effects in humans is very limited and mostly outdated. There are some animal studies suggesting that parsley extracts might influence uterine muscle, but no robust clinical trials in humans support its efficacy or safety for uterine health. Moreover, high doses of parsley or its essential oil can be toxic and are not recommended, especially during pregnancy, due to potential abortifacient effects.

In summary, while parsley is traditionally used to support the uterus, this use is not substantiated by modern scientific evidence, and caution is advised due to safety concerns at high doses.

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