What to know about Apium graveolens (celery) before using it medicinally

Apium graveolens, commonly known as celery, is a highly valued herb for its numerous health benefits, which include reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and lowering blood pressure.

This versatile herb is a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world, but it is also cultivated for its ornamental value in gardens, where it can grow up to 5 feet tall with its distinctive umbrella-like foliage. Botanically, Apium graveolens belongs to the carrot family (Apiaceae) and is characterized by its distinctive leaf shape and aroma, which is often used in perfumery and as a natural remedy for various ailments.

As one of the oldest cultivated crops in history, Apium graveolens has been mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman texts, where it was valued for its medicinal and culinary properties.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Apium graveolens.

What are the medicinal properties of Apium graveolens?

Apium graveolens helps with digestive issues, reduces inflammation, and has antioxidant properties. It has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improve respiratory health. The plant's extracts have been shown to have antimicrobial and antispasmodic effects.

The active constituents of Apium graveolens include flavonoids, alkaloids, and coumarins, which contribute to its medicinal properties. Flavonoids, such as apiin, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while alkaloids have been shown to possess antimicrobial and antispasmodic activities. Coumarins have been found to have anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The most commonly used parts of Apium graveolens for medicinal purposes are its leaves and stems. The leaves contain a high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, making them particularly effective for digestive and anti-inflammatory remedies. The stems, on the other hand, are rich in coumarins and are often used to treat respiratory issues.

Improper use of Apium graveolens can lead to side effects such as allergic reactions, digestive upset, and interactions with certain medications. Excessive consumption can cause an imbalance of electrolytes, leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and dizziness. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using the plant medicinally.

When using Apium graveolens medicinally, it is crucial to follow certain precautions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using the plant due to its potential estrogenic effects. Additionally, individuals taking blood thinners or certain medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease should consult their healthcare provider before using Apium graveolens.

What are the horticulural aspects of Apium graveolens?

Apium graveolens grow best in cool, moist climates with full sun to partial shade. It requires well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and consistent moisture levels. It can thrive in a wide range of temperatures from 15°C to 25°C.

For optimal growth, plant celery in early spring or late summer, when the soil has cooled down. Sow seeds 1-2 cm deep and 2-3 cm apart, in a block or staggered formation. Thin to 20-25 cm apart when seedlings reach 10-15 cm in height.

Harvest celery stalks when the inner stalks are thick and tender, about 2-3 months after sowing. Use a sharp knife to cut the stalks just above the crown, leaving 2-3 cm of stem attached to the crown. This will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from flowering.

Common pests affecting celery include aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars, which can cause damage to leaves and stalks. Root rot and leaf blight caused by fungal pathogens such as Sclerotinia and Xanthomonas can also impact plant health, particularly in poorly ventilated areas.

What are the botanical aspects of Apium graveolens?

Apium graveolens is a biennial herbaceous plant in the family Apiaceae. It grows up to 1 meter tall, with a hollow stem and umbels of small white or greenish flowers. Leaves are pinnately divided with 5-15 leaflets. The plant has a taproot and a basal rosette of leaves.

Taxonomically, Apium graveolens is classified as follows: kingdom Plantae, class Magnoliopsida, order Apiales, family Apiaceae, genus Apium, species A. graveolens. This classification reflects its relationships with other plants in the carrot family.

The plant has several variants, including Apium graveolens var. dulce, a sweet variety with larger leaves, and Apium graveolens var. rugosum, a rough-leafed variety. Other variants have been developed for specific purposes, such as for their foliage or roots.

Apium graveolens is native to the Mediterranean region and Europe, but is now cultivated worldwide in temperate and subtropical regions. It is naturalized in many parts of North America, where it can be found growing in gardens, parks, and along roadsides.

The life cycle of Apium graveolens begins with germination, which occurs in spring. The plant grows to maturity over the summer, producing flowers and seeds. In the fall, the plant dies back to the ground, but a new taproot and rosette of leaves develop the following spring, allowing the cycle to repeat.

What are the historical aspects of Apium graveolens?

Apium graveolens is an herb that has been used for various purposes throughout history, including as a food ingredient, medicinal plant, and ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics.

In ancient Greek and Roman mythology, celery was associated with the goddess of fertility, Demeter, and was said to have been created by her to promote fertility and abundance. The plant was also associated with the goddess of love, Aphrodite.

In various cultures, celery has been used as a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and longevity. In ancient China, it was believed to promote good fortune and was often given as a gift to royalty and nobility. In ancient Greece, it was a symbol of marital happiness.

The Greek physician Hippocrates (460-370 BCE) wrote about the medicinal properties of celery in his texts, describing its use in treating a variety of ailments, including indigestion and fever. The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder also wrote about the plant's uses in his book "Naturalis Historia".

Archaeological evidence has revealed that celery was cultivated in ancient Egypt as early as 3000 BCE. The Ebers Papyrus, an ancient medical text, describes the use of celery in treating various conditions, including indigestion and joint pain.