Evidence supporting the use of: Parsley
For the health condition: Afterbirth Pain

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. In the context of afterbirth pain, which refers to uterine cramping and discomfort experienced by women after childbirth, parsley has been used primarily for its purported emmenagogue (stimulating menstrual flow) and uterotonic (stimulating uterine contractions) properties. Folk remedies sometimes recommend parsley teas or infusions to help "cleanse" the uterus after delivery, under the belief that it can assist with the expulsion of retained tissue and reduce cramping by promoting uterine contractions. However, this use is rooted in tradition and anecdotal reports rather than robust scientific evidence.

Modern scientific research on parsley's effects on afterbirth pain or postpartum uterine involution is extremely limited. While some compounds in parsley, such as apiol and myristicin, are known to have mild uterotonic effects, there are no high-quality clinical studies demonstrating the safety or efficacy of parsley for managing afterbirth pain. In fact, there are potential safety concerns, as excessive consumption of parsley and its oils has been associated with toxicity and adverse effects, particularly in pregnant and postpartum women. Therefore, while traditional use exists, medical professionals generally do not recommend parsley for this indication due to a lack of evidence and potential risks.

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