I planted parsley in my garden this year, and it is so happy growing alongside the sage, plantain, basil, mullein, purslane and of course regular tomatoes, squashes, cucumbers, etc. Parsley is a diuretic herb, which means it supports the kidneys in their very important job of filtering the blood.  

Most people recognize parsley as a garnish with a fancy meal but instead of consuming it they let it go to waste, which is sad because this little plant is packed with nutrition. Dr. Christopher teaches us that parsley “is rich in vital minerals and contains more iron than any other green leafy vegetable. It is especially high in vitamins A and B, and it contains three times the potency of C than do citrus juices.” (School of Natural Healing, page 268). Eating parsley is a great way to get those vitamins and minerals in. 

Parsley can also be used as a decoction (roots only) or an infusion (leaves and seeds) and is a wonderful addition to green drinks. It is used for all kidney ailments and is also helpful in supporting the gallbladder, gall stones, jaundice, edema, menstrual obstructions, hepatitis, anemia, drying up mother’s milk, swollen glands, and many other conditions. Dr. Christopher recommends 1 cup of the infusion or 1/2 cup of the decoction 3 - 4 times a day. 

Deschauer tells us: 

“Let the kidneys fail to function properly and nature will call your attention to it right away. You will feel depressed and tired, restless at night, and pains in the back will show up. There might be scanty urine or a desire to urinate frequently. Your head will ache, and many other aches and pains will be making their appearance. You really cannot be surprised that you do not feel well.” (School of Natural Healing, pp 265-266).  

This makes sense, because if the kidneys are functioning at only 50% capacity, that means that half of the impurities in the blood are being cycled back through every system in the body causing issues and sluggishness. Supporting the kidneys in their most important job of filtering the blood will have untold benefits on our daily health.  

Parsley is a culinary herb, so most people already have it in their spice cabinet or growing on their counter. You can simply pull it out of the cupboard and start using it today!  

Take time to do your own study and research the many benefits of parsley. Some great places to start are Dr. Christopher’s books, School of Natural Healing and Herb Syllabus as well as other well-known herbals like Mrs. M. Grieve’s A Modern Herbal or Jethro Kloss’ Back to Eden. Set some time aside to do your own study – you can start with parsley and go through the herbs you already have in your spice cupboard. You might be surprised by the hidden gems you have on hand.  

Tara Christopher Eyre is a Master Herbalist and Foot Zone Therapist/Practitioner. she loves helping people find and continue their path toward health.