Celery Root (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum): Nutritional Power and Health Benefits

Introduction

Celery root (also known as celeriac) is a variety of Apium graveolens cultivated for its knobby, aromatic root. Native to the Mediterranean region, celery root has been valued in traditional European and Middle Eastern medicine for centuries. It has a mild, slightly earthy flavor and is typically consumed cooked, raw in salads, or juiced. As a fresh juice, it delivers concentrated nutrients and phytochemicals with potential health-enhancing effects. In modern nutrition, celery root juice has gained recognition for its potential to support cardiovascular, digestive, and kidney function. Cold-pressing preserves delicate bioactive compounds, offering a convenient way to incorporate functional plant nutrients into daily routines.

Active Compounds

• Phthalides (e.g., 3-n-butylphthalide): These aromatic compounds give celery its characteristic smell and contribute to vasodilation and blood pressure reduction [1].

• Flavonoids (e.g., apigenin, luteolin): Celery root contains flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions [2].

• Polyphenols and phenolic acids: Including caffeic and ferulic acids that help neutralize free radicals [2].

• Apiuman: A polysaccharide known for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects [2].

• Potassium and other minerals: Celery root is a natural source of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, important for cardiovascular and muscle function [1].

• Fiber: Juice made from unfiltered celery root contains dietary fiber, supporting digestive health. This fiber contributes to gut motility, microbiome balance, and satiety.

Scientifically Supported Health Benefits

• Blood pressure regulation: Phthalides in celery root help relax vascular smooth muscles and promote circulation. Clinical trials show that celery seed extract can reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, offering a natural alternative or complement to pharmaceutical interventions [1].

• Digestive health: Fiber and polyphenols in celery support regularity and gut protection. In animal studies, celery extract reduced ulcer formation and gastric inflammation. Its bitter compounds may also stimulate bile secretion and improve digestion of fats [2].

• Kidney and urinary tract support: Celery acts as a mild diuretic, increasing urine output and supporting urinary health. Extracts also showed a preventive effect against calcium oxalate kidney stones in rats, suggesting celery may aid in flushing excess salts and preventing stone formation [3].

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Apigenin and apiuman reduce systemic inflammation by regulating immune responses. These compounds decrease inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and increase IL-10, offering support for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and autoimmune imbalances [4].

• Antioxidant defense: Celery extract improves cellular antioxidant status by enhancing enzyme activity and lowering oxidative damage. It stimulates the activity of antioxidant enzymes like SOD, CAT, and GPx, helping to counter oxidative stress from pollution, processed foods, or chronic illness [4].

• Cholesterol and lipid metabolism: Studies indicate that celery extract can lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL, supporting heart health. This lipid-modulating effect may be due to celery’s fiber, phytosterols, and polyphenol content, which interfere with cholesterol absorption in the intestines [4].

• Liver protection: In models of liver toxicity, celery root extract reduced liver enzyme levels and improved tissue structure. This hepatoprotective effect is linked to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in celery, making it a gentle but effective support during detoxification protocols [4].

How to Consume

Celery root juice can be consumed fresh or blended with other vegetable or fruit juices. It may be enjoyed on an empty stomach or throughout the day as a mineralizing drink. Celery root is also delicious grated raw into salads, roasted, or puréed. Cooking enhances sweetness while preserving key nutrients. Cold-pressed juice retains the full profile of active compounds and offers a convenient delivery format. Choose organic juice or fresh produce when possible to avoid pesticide residues.

References

1. Shayani Rad M., Moohebati M., Mohajeri S.A. (2022). Effect of celery (Apium graveolens) seed extract on hypertension: A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over, clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 36(7), 2889–2907. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7469

2. Al-Howiriny T., Alsheikh A., Alqasoumi S., et al. (2010). Gastric antiulcer, antisecretory and cytoprotective properties of celery in rats. Pharmaceutical Biology, 48(7), 786–793. DOI: 10.3109/13880200903280026

3. Stiani S.N., Syahidah F.M., Fikriani H., Subarnas A., Rusdiana T. (2020). Anticalculi activity of apigenin and celery extract in rats induced by ethylene glycol. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, 12(1). DOI: 10.4103/jpbs.JPBS_202_19

4. Khairullah A.R., Solikhah T.I., Ansori A.N.M., et al. (2021). Review on the pharmacological and health aspects of Apium graveolens (Celery): An update. Systematic Reviews in Pharmacy, 12(1), 606–612. PMC: PMC5871295