5 Celery seed benefits that make it a truly underrated spice

Celery is a popular vegetable, but there’s more to this plant than the stalk alone. Celery seeds are less common but still tasty and nutritious.

They’re small, light-brown, and have an earthy scent. Their flavor is warm and bitter.

Celery seed, which come from wild celery plants, has long been used as a common pickling ingredient, and for good reason. The celery seed gaining popularity comes from wild celery, related to commercial celery we find in stores, and has a stronger and earthier flavor.

For thousand of years the seed has been used to treat ailments like bronchitis, skin disorders, and the flu.

Today, celery seeds are most commonly used as a cooking spice. However, they’re also available as a supplement in extract or capsule form.

Though small in size, celery seeds are of great nutritional value and provide many health benefits.

Here are 5 celery seeds benefits for your health:

1. It could improve your blood pressure

Celery seed has some properties, including calcium which supports heart contractionsand caffeic acid (which is a diuretic), could contribute to improved blood pressure.

2. It’s rich in iron

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia (aka low amounts of healthy red blood cells), impacting women, children, and athletes most often. It can lead to not only low physical and mental energy levels, but also a weakened immune system. A tablespoon of celery seed contains 17 percent of the recommended daily value of iron, which is a significant boost for at-risk groups or those looking to increase their hemoglobin levels.

3. It might ease arthritis

Celery seed can be used for treating arthritis and gout as well as reducing inflammation, due to its potential diuretic properties. So, if you are having joint issues and inflammation, it might help ease tension and provide relief.

4. It contains antioxidants

Antioxidant effects are seen via celery seeds when used as part of an overall balanced diet rich in other antioxidants as well. A small review study found several potent antioxidants in celery seed that can work to protect the body. Since there are tens of thousands of antioxidants that work together to protect cells from damage and slow the progression of age-related diseases, it’s important to have a varied diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

5. It might strengthen your bones

Celery seed can support bone health as a serving contains over 10 percent of the daily value for calcium and close to 10 percent of the daily value for magnesium. Calcium and magnesium can help lower risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and injury, so pair celery seeds with other bone-boosting foods, like cheese and yogurt, leafy greens, and fish for the best benefits.