How to use parsnips: useful properties and contraindications

Parsnip - one of the most famous root crops in our region. This vegetable is defined to the Umbrella family. Its population is large enough that, along with a unique set of useful qualities, makes parsnip almost indispensable for many areas of human life: nutrition, traditional pharmacology and traditional medicine, cosmetology. The properties of parsnip are multifaceted, which is why you need to know about it as much as possible.

  • Chemical composition of parsnip
  • Calorie and nutritional value of parsnip
  • The benefits of parsnips for the human body
    • For hormonal background
    • For breathing
    • For digestion
    • For the kidneys and bladder
  • Parsnip-based products
  • Use in folk medicine: treatment with parsnips
    • Parsnip juice
    • Parsnip leaf tea with calming effect
    • Decoction of parsnip leaves
    • Parsnip roots decoction
    • Parsnip infusion
  • How to use parsnips in cosmetology
  • How to prepare raw materials from parsnip for medicinal purposes
  • What kind of harm can parsnip do?

Chemical composition of parsnip

The composition of the parsnip is multifaceted and includes a large number of components, which determines the diversity of its useful properties.The plant sap contains a small amount of calcium and sodium, however the parsnip is saturated with sulfur, phosphorus, potassium, chlorine and silicon.

Pasternak, whose caloric and nutritional value is not as great as that of individual vegetable tubers, has significant beneficial properties of individual parts and the plant as a whole, as noted by experts in various fields. The high concentration of sulfur and silicon in the chemical composition of parsnip helps protect the nail from brittleness. Chlorine and phosphorus, which is useful for the respiratory tract, determine the unique benefits of parsnip for people prone to lung disease.

The percentage of potassium, which is important and valuable to the brain, is also very high, which is why parsnips are often used to increase brain activity.

Did you know? For the first time, parsnip is mentioned only in the 1st century BC. Eminent Roman scientists and discoverers - Pliny and Dioscorides - noted its extraordinary useful properties. Later, in the process of excavation of the Neolithic settlements, remains of root crops and seeds of this plant were found. Pasternak appeared on the territory of our country approximately in the XYII century and was called “field borsch”.

Calorie and nutritional value of parsnip

The calorie content of parsnip is 47 kcal / 100 g of fresh produce. The nutritional value of the fruit parsnip per 100 g of fresh product: 9.2 g of carbohydrates, 1.4 g of protein, 0.5 g of fat.

The benefits of parsnips for the human body

The benefits of this vegetable for the human body is invaluable. That is why it is often included in the compositions of drugs and prescriptions of traditional medicine. Pasternak, whose medical recipes are available and widely known, effectively affects various systems of the body and supports their health.

For hormonal background

Due to the multicomponent and unique chemical composition, parsnips, characterized by a high concentration of essential oils and other active substances and biological components, contribute to the revitalization of the human glands. Thus, the beneficial properties of this fetus are valuable for stimulating the production of various enzymes in the body and the effect on the release of individual hormones. Not in vain in folk medicine, parsnip is considered to be a vegetable, which effectively contributes to maintaining vitality and increasing sexual activity. It is noteworthy that this is especially effective in people at the age for whom it plays an irreplaceable role.

For breathing

Pasternak is one of the most useful fruits for diseases of the respiratory system and the respiratory system as a whole. This fact is caused by the fact that the use of vegetables favorably affects the condition of the bronchi and lungs of people suffering from tuberculosis and asthma. Many experts note that the beneficial properties of parsnip can significantly help in the fight against emphysema. High concentrations of ascorbic acid and carotene, which are part of the chemical composition of vegetables, have a positive effect on immunity and reducing the risk of colds. With the development of such diseases perfectly helps decoction and infusion.

For digestion

High concentration of essential oils in parsnip and its very specific taste provokes an active secretion of digestive enzymes and gastric juice. This helps to increase appetite and increase the speed of digestion. The benefit of this vegetable is also in its extremely low nutritional value, since the root of parsnip contains several times less calories than even celery. In view of this, eating this vegetable will not affect the weight and condition of the figure.

However, it is worth noting that over-use of parsnips, whose caloric content is low, is not necessary for people suffering from diseases of the digestive system, since benefits can quickly be replaced by undesirable side effects.

For the kidneys and bladder

The health of the organs of the human excretory system can be maintained due to the diuretic properties of parsnips. The processes caused by substances of parsnip, stimulate the dissolution of stones and prevent the re-absorption of urine. As a result, parsnips have a positive effect on the excretory system as a whole. In addition, the parsnip itself and derivatives based on it are recommended to be taken in case of manifestation of inflammatory processes in prostatitis, inflammation of the gall and bladder, cystitis.

Important! It must be borne in mind that parsnip is strictly contraindicated in urolithiasis in the later stages, since it can stimulate the onset of the stones. Moreover, a significant use of this product can cause blockage of the urinary canals with large stones.

Parsnip-based products

Drug development of parsnip in recent times is gaining high momentum, which is not surprising because of the large number of useful substances and a variety of properties. Already now, the furocoumarin extract from parsnip (bergapten and xantoxin) serves as the basis for a number of pharmaceutical products for various purposes. These include "Pastinacin" and "Beroxan", which have antispasmodic and photosensitizing effects, respectively.

Due to a certain set of specific enzymes and substances in the composition of parsnip, preparations made on its basis are distinguished from a number of pharmaceutical products by their uniqueness.

For Beroxan, the effect achieved is as follows:

  • activation of regenerative processes of skin pigmentation, as well as hair growth during alopecia;
  • stimulation of melanin formation in cases of ultraviolet irradiation;
  • restoration of skin sensitivity to sunlight;
  • effective resistance to vitiligo disease.
Apply 0.25% solution of the drug externally, evenly rubbing it in a circular neat movements directly into the lesions. The tool is not washed off.The course of drug treatment - up to 15 rubbing, combined with the irradiation of a mercury quartz lamp. In case of insufficient results, the course of treatment can be repeated after 2 months.

Tablets are taken orally. In accordance with the prescription of a doctor, “Beroxan” is taken 1–4 times a day, at 0.02 grams, in 4–1 hours, respectively, before the sessions of irradiation with long-wave ultraviolet rays. The course of such treatment is 5 sessions of radiation, between which there must be a three-week break. The maximum soluble dosage of the drug is not more than 6 grams.

The action of "Pastinacin" is to:

  • relaxation of intestinal muscular spasms and coronary vessels;
  • sedative effect;
  • effective treatment of neurosis, coronary heart disease, angina attacks, various forms and types of coronary insufficiency (coronaroneurosis and coronarocardiosclerosis).
After the appointment of a doctor, this preparation on the basis of parsnip is applied before meals 1 tablet 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is from 14 days to a month.

Important! An overdose of drugs based on parsnip can cause a number of undesirable side effects.The dosage and duration of the course of taking such a drug should be coordinated with a qualified doctor.

Use in folk medicine: treatment with parsnips

Pasternak in folk medicine has gained considerable popularity and widespread. For therapeutic purposes, used infusions, decoctions and even the juice of this amazing vegetable. It is noteworthy that the chemical composition of the plant allows its use in traditional and folk treatment. The benefits of parsnip for men and women are irrefutable, so it is advisable to know the most effective recipes.

Parsnip juice

Parsnip juice is an excellent remedy recommended for general breakdown. Along with this, drinking juice can improve digestion, increase appetite, and strengthen the walls of blood vessels and capillaries. The juice of this vegetable is characterized by a strong expectorant property, as well as a tonic and analgesic effect.

Parsnip juice is often prescribed in the process of treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases of varying complexity (coronary insufficiency, neurosis, strokes, coronaspasms, etc.), renal,gastric and hepatic colic. Moreover, taking the juice in accordance with the recommendations is effective in edematous states. Separate chemical components in the composition of parsnip make its juice a peculiar pathogen and activator of sexual function.

To achieve the medical effect of parsnip juice, mixed with honey, you need to take 1-2 teaspoons for half an hour before meals.

Important! For medicinal purposes, you can use only the juice pressed from the root! In the stem and seeds of the vegetable is a high concentration of substances that can cause side effects.

Parsnip leaf tea with calming effect

Tea from parsnip has long been used in folk medicine as a potent means of quickly getting rid of delirium tremens and hallucinations. The calming effect of tea made from parsnip leaves helps stabilize the nervous system, as well as fill the body with a healthy mind and new energy. Tea prepared according to a similar recipe, activates the restoration of melanin in the body, lost from exposure to ultraviolet rays.

To make tea, you need chopped, dried stems of parsnip mixed with linden and honey, pouring the mixture with a liter of boiling water. Present and carefully filtered tea retains its useful properties for up to 3 days, but it is desirable to make a fresh infusion every day.

Decoction of parsnip leaves

The decoction of leaves of parsnip is one of the most effective and popular modern means of traditional medicine, which, along with the simplicity and affordability of the recipe, demonstrates outstanding efficiency. A decoction of the leaves is used in the treatment of a number of diseases, and there is practically no alternative means of effectiveness.

  • Decoction of parsnip leaves with alopecia
Such a disease can be overcome with the help of decoction of parsnip leaves. To prepare the broth, you need 2 tbsp. l leaves of this vegetable pour 1 liter of hot boiled water and cook for 15 minutes. Then the broth must insist 3 hours. You need to take it 3 times daily for 1 tbsp. l Rubbing the infusion into problem areas in a circular motion, you can significantly accelerate and enhance the effect.

  • Broth leaves with renal and urolithiasis
Decoction of the leaves shows good results in the treatment of kidney and urolithiasis. For the manufacture of a decoction you need 1 tbsp. lChop up the prepared and dried leaves thoroughly, pour 1 liter of filtered water and boil for 30 minutes, then strain thoroughly and put for a day in a warm, dark place. The recommended rate of reception of such a decoction - 1 tbsp. l 3 times a day.
  • Broth leaves with colic
Intestinal colic may have a different nature of occurrence, so the approach to their treatment should be accurate. Despite the complexity of this problem, it is easy to cope with the decoction of parsnip leaves. To do this, pour 2 teaspoons of dried grass with 2 cups of boiling water, bring the composition to a boil and, after 10 minutes, remove from heat, removing it for 2-3 hours in a warm place. Such a decoction for the treatment of colic should be taken half an hour before meals, 100 ml 3 times a day.

Parsnip roots decoction

A decoction of the root parsnip is recommended to take to combat inflammation, colds, disorders of the nervous system and problems of a different kind. It is noteworthy that the effectiveness of decoction of the roots of parsnip, prepared according to the recipe of traditional medicine, in some cases significantly exceeds the effectiveness of traditional medicine preparations.

  • Broth with colds and cough
A decoction of roots of parsnip perfectly helps with the appearance of the first symptoms of cough and colds. This tool is made from 2 tbsp. l crushed root vegetables, 5 tbsp. l sugar and 1 tbsp. boiling water. Pre-harvested root is filled with boiling water with sugar. This decoction is infused for 10 hours at a constant temperature. It should be taken 5 times a day, 2 tbsp. l
  • Decoction against hair loss
Juice squeezed from 2 parsnip root vegetables and 2 carrots, it is necessary to dilute with 500 ml of boiled water and cook for half an hour. The resulting remedy must be infused, and then applied three times a day for half a cup. The course of such treatment ends when the desired result is achieved. It is necessary to drink such broth for half an hour before meal.
  • Decoction of roots from depression
In the chemical composition of parsnip there is a high concentration of substances that positively affect the nervous system, so the decoction of this vegetable is often used to combat depression.

For the preparation of this tool you need to prepare one crushed parsnip root in advance with 50 g of honey, 5 mint leaves, 5 linden buds and pour 2 liters of water.It is necessary to boil the broth for half an hour, and then insist for a day. Drink a decoction of the roots of parsnip 3 times a day, regardless of meals.

Parsnip infusion

In the recipe of traditional medicine, there is a mass of various options for infusion of parsnips, which are equally effective in treating many diseases. It is noteworthy that in the end result, the infusion of parsnips includes a permanent list of components.

To prepare the infusion, it is necessary to carefully chop a large vegetable root, tamp it in a container before extracting the juice and pour 0.5 liters of vodka. Insist composition must be within a month in a dark place, occasionally stirring and shaking.

The resulting tincture is strongly recommended to take no more than three times a day, one teaspoon.

Did you know? Pasternak and derivatives based on it (especially on the basis of the root) are able to effectively relieve spasms of blood vessels and reduce pressure. It is often used to treat hypertension, muscle cramps, and even angina pectoris.

How to use parsnips in cosmetology

Pasternak, the benefit and harm of which has already been proven in traditional and traditional medicine, is also widely used in cosmetology. The rich mineral complex and the presence of ascorbic acid in the chemical composition of this plant predetermines the fact that modern cosmetology is almost impossible without the use of parsnip in one form or another.

Essential oil, contained in the root vegetables of parsnip, it is common to use for cellulite, treatment of acne and other skin inflammations, as well as for smoothing small and formed wrinkles. Antioxidant properties plants can effectively use the extract for the treatment of dermatological diseases, however, the most widespread pasternak in cosmetology has gained as the basis for masks.

These products are characterized by an incredible whitening effect, and also nourish the skin. It is noteworthy that you can enjoy such masks not only in expensive cosmetic centers, but also by preparing them yourself at home.

  • Anti-wrinkle parsnip mask
Components Used:
  • Parsnip root - 1 pc .;
  • Vegetable oil - 1 tsp;
  • Egg yolk - 1 pc .;
  • Honey - 1 tsp;
  • Water - 0.5 liters.
Parsnip root, previously grated on a fine grater, must be mixed with vegetable oil, yolk and filled with honey. After preparation of the mask, it should be heated and left in a warm place for an hour. The mask is applied on the face with careful circular movements and left for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm purified water.

  • Mask based on parsnip against skin inflammation
Components Used:
  • Parsnip root - 1 pc .;
  • Mint leaves - 5 pcs .;
  • Honey - 1 tbsp. l .;
  • Vegetable oil - 2 tbsp. l
Parsnip root must be grated on a fine grater and chopped mint leaves. The resulting components are mixed and crushed in a bowl until the selection of the juice. After that, the composition is charged with honey and vegetable oil. This cosmetic should be applied on the face in a circular motion and hold for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with micellar water.

Important! Prolonged skin contact with chemicals of parsnip can significantly increase its sensitivity to various factors. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to follow the rules of applying a cosmetic mask based on this plant.

How to prepare raw materials from parsnip for medicinal purposes

The beneficial properties of parsnip determine the active use of raw materials from parsnips for medicinal purposes. All parts of the plant are useful, therefore they harves the roots, stems and fruits of parsnip. The recommended method of preparation is determined by the further use of raw materials, so it is important to consider this factor.

Important! For harvesting, you can use only parsnips, which have no external damage and cracks. Their presence is an indicator of obvious diseases - such fruits, regardless of the methods of harvesting, are less useful and will not be stored for a long time.

Parsnip root vegetables are used both fresh and dried. Their harvesting is done in late autumn (as a rule, at the end of the autumn harvest) when the weather is dry and the ground is a bit damp. Pasternak, the root of which is gentle enough, you need to gently undermine the garden fork and slowly pull out the tops. Subsequently, the above-ground part is cut, and the roots are dried in an accessible way.

Did you know? Roots can be quickly dried in the oven. To do this, select the selected roots carefully cut into strips about 3 cm thick and place on a baking sheet in an oven preheated to 50 ° C.It is necessary to dry raw materials for 10-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Store dried root in a glass jar.

For fresh use, the roots should be put in the basement or cellar for storage. It is best to place them in wet sand, which will significantly extend the shelf life.

The stems of parsnip with leaves (grass plants) must be harvested during flowering. Cut stems should be carefully spread out in a thin layer on a sheet of paper or thick fabric and dried in the open air, protected from shade and drafts. For proper drying, they need to be stirred periodically.

The preparation of the fruit of the parsnip is made after reaching full maturity. After harvesting and drying umbrellas, they are thoroughly cleaned of seeds. The collected seeds, which are fruits, should be placed in a dry glass jar. You can store fruits harvested this way for 3 years.

What kind of harm can parsnip do?

Despite the use of parsnip with a different purpose and in different areas, it can also cause harm. So, even a slight contact of wet areas of the skin with the fruits or individual leaves of this plant can provoke the occurrence of burns of varying degrees. Especially carefully and reverently treat this plant is worth people who have light and super sensitive skin.

This is due to the fact that contact with parsnips can increase the sensitivity of human skin to sunlight. Moreover, the composition of the parsnip includes potent substances, therefore, contraindications include individual intolerance.

Pasternak is considered to be one of the most useful root crops. For various reasons, it is often underestimated, but this in no way affects the wide and highly effective use of parsnip in various areas of human life.