Celery extract powder, which is obtained from the leaves and stalks of the celery plant, has gained growing attention in recent years due to its beneficial health properties. From clinical research studies to alternative health medicine, celery extract has shown immense potential for use in various therapeutic applications. This article will explore celery extract's therapeutic properties and its potential health benefits.
Introduction
Celery, or Apium graveolens, is widely known for its use as a vegetable in cooking and garnishing. However, various parts of the celery plant, such as the seeds, leaves, and stems, have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries. Celery extract is obtained through various extraction methods and has been found to contain a wide range of bioactive compounds that contribute to its health benefits. Some of the bioactive compounds found in celery extract include phthalides, flavonoids, alkaloids, and volatile oils.
Phthalides, which are unique to celery, help to relax the smooth muscles of the blood vessels, which, in turn, promotes healthy blood pressure levels. Flavonoids, which are potent antioxidant compounds, scavenge free radicals and protect the body's cells from oxidative damage. Meanwhile, alkaloids, such as N-methyl-��-phenethylamine and N-methyltyramine, can improve the body's immune response by increasing white blood cell activity. Finally, volatile oils found in celery extract, such as limonene and selenide, have potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Many of the therapeutic properties of celery extract overlap with other plant extracts, such as turmeric or ginger extracts. However, what makes celery unique among other plant extracts is its ability to improve digestive health while also supporting cardiovascular and immune function.
Health benefits of Celery Extract
1. Supports Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 31% of global mortality. CVD occurs when the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart and the rest of the body become narrowed or blocked, causing a range of health complications.
Several clinical trials have shown that celery extract can help support cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation. One study found that consuming celery extract daily for six weeks significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in elderly patients with hypertension. Another study found that celery extract supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in rats fed a high-fat diet.
In addition to cardiovascular health, celery extract has exhibited potential benefits in reducing weight gain and obesity due to its anti-inflammatory effects and increased metabolism.
2. Relieves Inflammation
Inflammation is a vital process that helps the body's immune system fight off infections and illnesses. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health issues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cardiovascular disease.
Celery extract has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce chronic inflammation in the body. A study found that a celery extract supplement significantly reduced inflammatory markers in patients with osteoarthritis. The study results showed that the celery extract supplement reduced the production of various inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin 1 beta (IL-1��) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-��).
The anti-inflammatory properties of celery extract are attributed to its bioactive compounds such as apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, which have been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
3. Supports Digestive Health
The digestive system plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health by breaking down food into nutrients that the body absorbs for energy and repair. The digestive system also harbors a significant number of microbiota that help to maintain overall health.
Celery extract has demonstrated potential health benefits for the digestive system by promoting intestinal health and reducing inflammation. A study found that celery seed extract significantly improved gut motility in rats by increasing gastric emptying and enhancing gastrointestinal contractions. A separate study found that celery extract supplementation inhibited inflammation in the colon due to a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Celery extract is also useful for calming acid reflux and aids in digestion. With its high levels of antioxidants and minerals, it supports healthy digestion by helping your body break down food and other nutrients more efficiently.
4. Improves Immune Function
The immune system is the body's defense mechanism against bacterial, viral, and fungal attacks. Several bioactive compounds found in celery extract have been shown to help boost the immune system.
A study found that celery extract has antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli. Additionally, celery extract has been found to have anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties while also promoting healthy cell growth by inactivation of proteins related to cell proliferation or programmed cell death.
5. Reduces Anxiety
Many studies suggest that the use of various natural remedies can help alleviate anxiety symptoms, including depression and stress, without the side effects of traditional pharmacological interventions.
Celery extract has been shown to have anxiolytic effects, reducing anxiety levels in individuals by increasing the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. A study found that celery extract significantly reduced anxiety-like behaviors in mice and significantly improved their cognitive function.
6. Reduces Pain
Pain is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical attention. Chronic pain can have an impact on everyday life, limiting mobility and affecting mental health. Celery extract has been suggested to have significant pain-relieving properties.
A study found that celery extract could relieve pain in rats by inhibiting the production of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a critical enzyme that is involved in pain and inflammation. By inhibiting COX-2, celery extract reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for transmitting pain signals in the body.
7. Promotes Cognitive Health
Cognitive decline is a natural process that occurs with aging. However, cognitive decline can be a warning sign of dementia, which is a significant health concern for individuals over 65 years of age.
Research has suggested that celery extract may be beneficial in promoting cognitive health by reducing inflammation in the brain and promoting healthy brain function. One study found that rats fed a high-fat diet supplemented with celery extract exhibited improved cognitive performance in various memory tests compared to the control group.
Several bioactive compounds found in celery extract, such as luteolin, apigenin, and kaempferol, have been found to have potent neuroprotective properties, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
Conclusion
Celery extract has a wide range of therapeutic properties that can be used to promote overall health and well-being. Its anti-inflammatory properties, combined with its beneficial effects on digestion, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and immune function, make it a potent natural remedy for various medical conditions. Whether consumed as a supplement, juice, or incorporated into different recipes and dishes, celery extract can offer multiple health benefits. As with other herbal medicines, individuals should consult their doctor or healthcare provider before incorporating celery extract into their diet or using it as a supplement.
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