What is the active ingredient in celery juice?

Celery juice has become incredibly popular in recent years, with many touting its health and wellness benefits. But what exactly makes this vegetable juice so special? Let’s take a closer look at the active ingredients in celery juice to understand why it has become such a health craze.

Introduction

Celery is a very hydrating and low-calorie vegetable that contains essential vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. It has long been used for its digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. However, juicing celery unlocks even more of its nutrients and enhances its healing potential.

When celery is juiced, the pulp is removed, making the nutrients more concentrated and bioavailable. This allows the phytochemicals and active compounds to be rapidly absorbed by the body. The two most studied active compounds in celery juice are apigenin and luteolin.

Apigenin

Apigenin is a flavonoid found in celery, parsley, chamomile, and many other plants. It has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.

Some key benefits of apigenin include:

• Reducing inflammation – Apigenin inhibits the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Protecting the liver – It prevents oxidative damage and improves liver health.
• Fighting cancer – Apigenin has been shown to combat tumor growth and induce cancer cell death.
• Boosting immunity – It activates immune cells and stimulates an antiviral response.
• Lowering blood pressure – Apigenin relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation.

The apigenin content is significantly higher in celery juice compared to eating raw celery stalks. Juicing concentrates this powerful antioxidant, allowing us to gain more of its benefits.

Luteolin

Luteolin is another antioxidant flavonoid that provides celery juice with many of its medicinal properties. Like apigenin, it contains anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immune-strengthening abilities.

Research shows that luteolin:

• Prevents NF-kB activation – This is a key regulator of the inflammatory response.
• Inhibits COX-2 enzymes – These enzymes drive inflammation and pain.
• Reduces tumor growth – Luteolin suppresses cancer cell proliferation.
• Strengthens the immune system – It increases the production of T cells.
• Protects the brain – Luteolin reduces oxidative stress and improves cognitive function.

The concentration of luteolin in celery juice can be over 20 times higher than eating the vegetable. This makes juicing celery an extremely efficient way to increase luteolin intake.

Other Active Compounds

In addition to apigenin and luteolin, celery juice contains a variety of other beneficial phytonutrients. These include:

• Phenolic acids – Provide antioxidant and neuroprotective benefits.
• Flavones – Anti-inflammatory and chemoprotective properties.
• Tannins – Lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
• Phytosterols – Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Furans – Potential anti-cancer effects.

Research also shows that celery juice contains compounds that help relax the nervous system, making it useful for reducing anxiety and insomnia. The minerals like magnesium, iron, and silicon in celery may also contribute to its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.

Nutrient Content

In addition to beneficial plant compounds, celery juice is high in essential vitamins and minerals. Juicing concentrates these nutrients, allowing for greater absorption.

Some of the key vitamins and minerals in celery juice include:

Nutrient	Key Benefits
Vitamin K	Builds strong bones and prevents calcium deposits in tissues.
Vitamin A	Promotes healthy vision, fights inflammation, and boosts immunity.
Vitamin C	Powerful antioxidant that stimulates white blood cells and collagen production.
B Vitamins	Supports energy levels, mood, liver function, and nerve health.
Potassium	Balances fluid levels and lowers blood pressure.
Manganese	Essential mineral for bone health, metabolism, and wound healing.

Celery juice makes it easy to obtain higher doses of these nutrients to prevent vitamin deficiencies and support overall health.

Chlorophyll and Digestive Enzymes

Two other important components of celery juice are chlorophyll and natural digestive enzymes. Chlorophyll is a pigment that fights inflammation, stimulates wound healing, and removes heavy metals from the body. Celery juice is a rich source of chlorophyll due to its green color.

Enzymes like phosphatase, lipase, and cholinesterase are also present in celery. These enzymes aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. They help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates from foods more efficiently.

Potential Side Effects

For most people, drinking celery juice provides only health advantages. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

• Allergic reactions – Celery contains allergenic compounds that may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Photosensitivity – The furanocoumarins in celery can make skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
• Gastrointestinal issues – Too much fiber from juicing can cause abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea.
• Dangerously low sodium – Excessive celery juice may lower sodium levels too much.
• Kidney problems – The oxalates in celery may aggravate kidney disorders or form kidney stones in predisposed people.

Starting with a small amount of celery juice diluted in water and gradually increasing intake can help minimize adverse effects. Anyone on medications should also consult a doctor before adding large amounts of celery juice to their diet.

Conclusion

Apigenin, luteolin, and other anti-inflammatory compounds are responsible for the medicinal properties of celery juice. Juicing concentrates these nutrients and phytochemicals, allowing us to gain more of their antioxidant, anticancer, and immune-boosting benefits.

Drinking celery juice is an efficient way to reduce inflammation, fight disease, and boost overall vitality. However, start slowly and be mindful of possible side effects like allergies. When consumed in moderation, celery juice can be a very healthy addition to your diet.