Celery seeds (Apium graveolens) are a wonderful medicine of which is not talked much about nowadays.
It is mainly a warming and cooling herb with strong diuretic, anti-rheumatic and anti-inflammatory properties. Celery seeds contribute to maintain the health of the kidneys and urinary tract by promoting the excretion of urine and unwanted toxic products. There are several compounds in Apium deemed responsible for its pharmacological properties; the most researched is 3-n-butylphthalide (3nB), which is responsible for celery's taste and smell. Human studies showed that 3nB is more effective than placebo in reducing blood pressure figures, both systolic and diastolic. Additionally, celery seeds contain a good amount of the flavone apigenin, which is also contained in many other herbs such as vervain and chamomile. Apigenin is a strong antioxidant a mild sedative, being probably responsible for Apium anti-rheumatic and anti-inflammatory properties.
In conclusion, a regular consumption of Apium as either food or supplements will reduce congestion, water retention and toxic build up bringing relief to inflammatory conditions such as oedema, gout, varicose veins, arthritis, myalgia, cystitis, nephritis and hypertension.