Why Celery Seeds Are the New 'It' Superfood Food

Wondering about the health benefits of celery seeds? Our experts weigh in.

Celery is well known for its low-calorie, nutritious and hydrating properties. But the tiny brown seeds found in the small white flowers of the celery plant also pack a health punch and could help with inflammation and calm nerves.

Aromatic celery seeds have been used in Eastern medicine for thousands of years. In ancient India, Ayurvedic medicine embraced celery seeds for treatment of colds, flu, bloating, digestion, arthritis and liver and spleen diseases, according to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

“Celery seeds contain different compounds than the celery vegetable, which has a much higher water content,” says Rachael Miller, an herbalist, nutritionist and owner of Zhi Herbals. “Both are healthy, but you are unlikely to get the same medicinal effects as the seeds from consuming regular celery as a vegetable.”

Here’s a look at some of the celery seed benefits for health, how to eat celery seeds and more.

Can celery seeds help with inflammation?

Yes, says Miller, who has recommended celery seeds to patients for managing inflammation. “It can be helpful for stiffness, muscular pain, rheumatoid arthritis, urinary tract inflammation and cystitis,” she explains.

It's worth noting, though, that most research on the health benefits of celery seeds have focused on animal subjects, not humans. But, a 2015 study conducted on humans found that celery seed extract is at least as effective as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen in treating arthritis, and relieved the stomach inflammation often caused by these medications. The extract also decreased existing inflammation in rats.

Celery seed’s anti-inflammatory properties stem from its high antioxidant levels, says Lisa Richards, a nutritionist and creator of the Candida Diet. Celery seeds contain polyphenols, natural compounds shown to guard against some cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and neurodegenerative disease.

Related: 17 Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Recipes

“Antioxidants work in the body to prevent and reduce free radical damage resulting from toxins in the body,” Richards says. “When this damage is allowed to continue unchecked, it causes issues at the cellular level which leads to inflammation. This inflammation triggers a cascade of health issues ranging from mild discomfort to chronic illness and disease. The presence of antioxidants in celery reduces the presence and impact of this inflammation.”

Benefits of celery seeds

The ability to fight inflammation isn't the only health benefit of celery seeds. “Celery seed can be used in many situations,” Miller says.

Celery seeds act as a diuretic and urinary antiseptic, meaning it helps eliminate uric acid from the body, which can help with urinary tract infections, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. For nursing mothers, research suggests celery seeds could help enhance milk production.

Related: Can UTI Cause Lower Back Pain?

Research also shows that celery seed extract has antibacterial properties and could treat Helicobacter pylori infections like stomach inflammation, peptic ulcer disease and some types of stomach cancer. The antibacterial benefits could improve digestive health, too. “This benefit also makes it ideal for fighting and preventing other bacterial growth and yeast,” Richards says.

The scent of celery seed also brings benefits. In aromatherapy, celery seed oil can ease nervousness, anxiety and stress and improve sleep.

How often to eat celery seeds

Celery seeds are low in calories and full of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium and more. But, how much you should eat depends on how you’re consuming it.

When eaten in its natural form as a cooking spice, celery seeds are considered safe when consumed in most quantities. But, celery seed supplements or oils should be consumed in lesser amounts, as the concentration of celery seeds is much higher and could potentially be dangerous.

Related: 8 Facts to Know About Supplements

If you have a celery allergy, avoid celery seeds at all costs. People with low blood pressure, active kidney inflammation and birch pollen allergies and pregnant women should avoid celery seed supplements, according to Penn State. And, celery seeds could interact with some medications and cause the skin to become extra sensitive to UV rays.

It’s always best to check with your doctor before taking any kind of dietary supplement. Keep in mind the U.S. Food & Drug Administration doesn’t regulate supplements.

How to eat celery seeds

Celery seed, either whole or ground, is probably best known as a cooking spice. Not surprising, it tastes like, well, celery. So it pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as salad dressings and as a seasoning for meats, seafood and vegetables. It’s also commonly used in pickling and brining.

You can also brew up a celery seed tea, Miller says, with one to two grams steeped in hot water.

Next, learn more about other anti-inflammatory foods.