Health Benefits of Parsley

Although usually used as a garnish on entrées, the addition of parsley to a green smoothie is a smart decision. Parsley contains unique volatile oils such as myristicin, limonene, eugenol, and alpha-thujene. The volatile oils, especially myristicin have been shown to inhibit tumor formation, especially in the lungs, as published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Flavonoids such as luteolin are present in parsley and serve as anti-oxidants. They help by combining with highly reactive oxygen radicals and help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells. Adding parsley to a green smoothie made in the Vitamix 5200 will add flavor and may even help reduce the risk of cancer. The bonus is, your breath will be fresh!