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organic celery

Also known as: Celery, Celery seed, Celery seed oil, Apium graveolens

Overview

Apium graveolens, commonly known as celery, is a plant-based supplement derived from the *Apium graveolens* plant. It is primarily recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Historically, celery has been utilized for addressing gastrointestinal issues, arthritis, and as a natural diuretic. More recent scientific investigations are exploring its potential benefits in cardiovascular health and the management of diabetes. The health-promoting effects of celery are attributed to various compounds, including 3-n-butylphthalide. While its traditional uses are well-established, the scientific research on celery as a supplement is still emerging, with most studies being small-scale or observational. Comprehensive clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses are currently limited, indicating a need for more robust research to fully understand its efficacy and mechanisms.

Benefits

Celery offers several potential health benefits, primarily due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A notable randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 51 hypertensive patients demonstrated that celery seed extract significantly reduced blood pressure, fasting blood sugar (from 108.53 to 97.96 mg/dL), and improved lipid profiles over a four-week period. This suggests a strong potential for celery in managing hypertension and metabolic markers. Beyond these primary effects, celery is also being investigated for its potential role in broader cardiovascular disease prevention and diabetes management, though more extensive research is required to solidify these claims. The benefits appear to be most pronounced in individuals with hypertension, with observable effects within a relatively short timeframe. While promising, the current evidence base largely consists of smaller studies, and larger, more comprehensive clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings and establish definitive recommendations.

How it works

Celery's therapeutic effects are primarily mediated through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways. The plant contains various bioactive compounds, such as 3-n-butylphthalide, which are believed to interact with multiple biological targets within the body. These interactions may contribute to its observed benefits in cardiovascular and metabolic systems. By modulating inflammatory responses and combating oxidative stress, celery may help protect cells and tissues from damage. While the exact molecular targets and comprehensive mechanisms are still under investigation, its influence on these fundamental biological processes underpins its potential health-promoting properties. Data on the specific absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds are currently limited.

Side effects

Celery is generally considered safe for consumption; however, caution is advised due to potential interactions with certain medications. It may increase the risk of bleeding when taken concurrently with anticoagulants, necessitating careful monitoring. There is also a possibility of interaction with venlafaxine and acetaminophen. Individuals with bleeding disorders or pre-existing liver conditions should exercise particular caution or avoid celery supplements altogether. While common side effects are not well-documented, the potential for increased bleeding risk with anticoagulant use is a notable concern. Rare side effects are not extensively reported. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using celery supplements due to the limited safety data available for these specific populations. It is crucial to discuss any supplement use with a healthcare professional, especially if taking prescription medications or having underlying health conditions, to avoid adverse interactions.

Dosage

The optimal dosage for celery supplements is not yet well-established, and specific recommendations can vary depending on the form and intended use. One study that demonstrated significant benefits in hypertensive patients utilized 1.34 grams of celery seed extract per day. However, this specific dosage may not be universally applicable, and a maximum safe dose has not been definitively determined. There are no specific timing considerations for taking celery supplements, and they are available in various forms, including capsules and juice. Information regarding absorption factors and required cofactors for optimal efficacy is currently limited. Due to the lack of well-defined dosage guidelines and potential drug interactions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any celery supplement regimen, especially if you are on other medications.

FAQs

Is celery safe to take with other medications?

Celery can interact with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants, venlafaxine, and acetaminophen. Always consult your healthcare provider before using celery supplements if you are taking any prescription drugs to avoid potential adverse interactions.

What are the main benefits of celery supplements?

Research suggests celery may help reduce blood pressure, lower fasting blood sugar, and improve lipid profiles, especially in hypertensive patients. It also possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

How long does it take to see results from celery supplements?

One study observed significant benefits in blood pressure and blood sugar within four weeks of daily celery seed extract supplementation. However, individual results may vary, and more research is needed.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take celery supplements?

Due to limited safety data for these populations, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking celery supplements to ensure safety.

Is celery a substitute for medical treatment?

No, celery supplements are not a substitute for prescribed medical treatments. Always consult your doctor for any health conditions and before making changes to your medication or treatment plan.

Research Sources

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-882/celery – This source provides a general overview of celery as a supplement, including its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It highlights common interactions and contraindications, emphasizing the need for caution with certain medications.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10494649/ – This article describes a pilot-parallel randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial on celery powder in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study, despite being well-designed, found no significant improvement in cardiometabolic factors over 12 weeks, indicating inconclusive results for this specific application.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35536382/ – This source details a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trial involving 51 hypertensive patients. The study found significant reductions in blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and lipid profiles with celery seed extract over four weeks, despite its small sample size, suggesting promising effects for hypertension management.
https://www.drugs.com/npp/celery.html – This source offers information on celery, focusing on its natural product profile. It covers various aspects including its traditional uses, chemical constituents, and potential pharmacological activities, providing a comprehensive overview for healthcare professionals.
https://newinera.com/index.php/JournalLaMedihealtico/article/view/1099 – This source discusses a review of interactions related to celery. It highlights potential interactions with medications such as anticoagulants and venlafaxine, underscoring the importance of considering drug interactions when using celery supplements, though it notes the limitations of clinical data.