Parsley’s been good to us over the years. It makes for a great topping and a tasty addition to salads, but that’s not all that’s good about it. Like a lot of the ingredients we mention on our blog, there’s more to parsley than meets the eye.
Parsley has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it an extremely promising plant when it comes to achieving better skin. It contains a host of antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamins A, C, K, potassium, folic acid, carotenoids and flavonoids, all of which promote skin health. The oxidative stress that stems from free radical damage is reported to be combated by the vitamin C content in this magical little plant, leaving the skin soft and glowing.
Those suffering from skin conditions like acne may find relief in parsley. Due to the antimicrobial properties we touched on earlier, parsley has been outlined as a possible treatment for acne since it has shown potential in helping to kill the bacteria that triggers acne flare-ups. It has also been touted as being a fighter against excess oil production. Though more research is needed to bring concrete evidence of this to the table, many have reported its benefits, which is certainly a good start.
If you didn’t already know, parsley is accessible not just in its plant form but also as an essential oil. Described as a woody scent with a slight spice to it, parsley essential oil has been proclaimed to be rich in vitamins A and C, qualities that are not altered by the extraction process. Proclaimed to have a cleansing effect on the skin, this herby essential oil is said to be good for being able to prevent the formation of harmful microbes on the skin’s surface. This response is a great all-rounder since protecting the skin actively paves the way to a better complexion. Basically, the less harmful things that come into contact with your skin, from oxidative stress to microbes, the better. Less stressed skin = happy skin as any dermatologist will tell you, and the evidence surrounding parsley could help you to take a step in the right direction.
Aside from general skin health, parsley is said to be a natural wrinkle reducer. Due to its naturally-occurring vitamin A content, parsley is said to be helpful in softening the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles and even age spots. This, in conjunction with its vitamin C content (which is higher than oranges), is said to contribute towards brighter, tighter skin. Consuming just 30g grams grants just over 50% of your daily vitamin C intake, which is fairly impressive. Though parsley won’t completely erase wrinkles overnight, its antioxidants and vitamins will certainly benefit your skin in the long-run. It’s no secret that vitamin C does have an effect on collagen production, which is why it’s been hailed by many to be one of the best things you can add to your skincare regimen for younger-looking skin.
Despite being a natural ingredient, like anything you put on your skin, you should always do a patch test, especially if you’ve opted for parsley essential oil. Essential oils are extremely potent, which is why it’s always recommended to dilute them with a non-comedogenic carrier oil before topical application. Even the most natural of ingredients can prove an irritant to some people’s skin, so just be aware of that when trying something new, especially if your skin is prone to sensitivity.