Celery

Celery is best for:

- Nutrients include beta carotene, folic acid, vitamin B3, sodium, potassium, calcium and iron.

- The dark green parts of the leaves and stalk contain higher amounts of these nutrients than the white part.

• There are fewer than 10 calories in one stalk of celery.
• A one cup (120 g) serving of raw, chopped celery is an excellent source of Vitamin C, potassium, folate and fibre.
• Celery leaves contain more calcium, iron, potassium and vitamins  A and C than do the stalks.
• Celery belongs to the same family of plants as carrots, parsley, fennel, anise and caraway.
• Excellent source of Vitamin C and molybdenum.
• Very good source of potassium, folate, Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), manganese, Vitamin B1 (thiamin) and Vitamin A.

History of Celery

It is known that celery has been around for over 3,000 years, originating from Mediterranean countries. Ancient Greeks and Romans did not use it as a food, but used it instead as a medicine, mainly to treat nervousness. They also used it as a flavoring in their daily diets. During these times Greeks and Romans also gave away bunches of celery during special ceremonies to victorious athletes. Celery stalks were also woven into funeral wreaths. The first recorded use of celery as a food was not until 1623.

Until the late 17th century, the wild and stronger celery was grown. Due to the fact that it had unpleasantly strong flavors, farmers tried to keep the stalks white, to keep the flavor more mild. This was achieved through "blanching:, building up the soil around the growing stalks so that no light would reach them. Although it is not known exactly when celery came to America, records from 1806 listed 4 varieties grown in the U.S.

The Benefits of Celery

The polyacetylene in celery is thought to reduce the production of prostaglandins (chemicals that produce inflammation) and thereby help reduce the pain in arthritic joints. This polyacetylene also destroys benzopyrene, a cancer causing substance. As well, celery contains coumarins, which have good anti-cancer properties.

The high levels of potassium can lead to lower blood pressure and help in the prevention of migraine headaches. There is also an essential oil in celery that has tranquilizing properties beneficial in dealing with mental depression. Since the amount in the seeds is higher, they are preferred for treating nervous disorders.

Celery is excellent for use in the incontinence of dropsy, urine and liver troubles. It has eight different families of anti-cancer compounds, such as polyacetylenes and phalides which detoxify carcinogens, especially cigarette smoke. Foods rich in Vitamin C, such as celery, may reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

Classification

Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Umbellales
Family: Umbelliferae