Parsley
Petroselinum Crispum
Parsley Oil is an antibacterial and antimicrobial oil which is often used in high end skincare products because of its calming properties and for keeping bacteria at bay - particularly for acne prone skin. Its benefits include helping reduce cellulite, stretch marks as well as bruises.
History of Parsley Oil
Parsley has been cultivated and found in so many countries that it isn’t completely clear where it originates. It is mentioned often throughout Greek history, although there isn’t solid evidence to suggest that it was an ‘essential’ in Greek culture. The scientific name for parsley is Petroselinum Sativum and it boasts a number of health benefits, however it isn’t the parsley leaf that produces the oil, the parsley seed is used to create the essential oil.
Parsley Oil was used mostly across the Mediterranean in countries such as Greece, Turkey, Portugal, Tunisia and Morocco. It had a number of medicinal properties, was used as an anti-inflammatory as well as being used on cuts, bruises and minor wounds to stop the spread of infection due to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Originally the oil was used as a tonic for men, but its benefits for female related health problems such as menstrual and hormonal issues shifted Parsley Oil from a predominantly ‘male’ oil to an essential in feminine beauty and healthcare products.
Today, Parsley Oil is found commonly in a lot of skincare products, and has been adopted by a number of high end ‘botanical’ or ‘natural’ brands. Aesop being the most prominent with a number of their products that are in the parsley seed collection. Aside from the oil, parsley is a widely accessible herb which can be used in cooking, creating salves and ointments or as a raw ingredient in homemade skin remedies.
So, why is Parsley Oil still so popular today?
Even though the depths of its history are slightly ambiguous (though we can assume it did originate in Greek culture) its commercial popularity with large brands has embedded it into skincare and natural beauty products. It has a pleasant aroma which lends well to botanical or floral products, and it is also very effective at reducing spots, cleansing the skin and keeping bacteria and dirt at bay.
It’s also popular because the actual herb itself is accessible on a global scale and can be grown in the comfort of your own home. The raw herb that can be used in cooking, as well as chopped up and used to make home remedies for skincare, pain relief and balancing hormones. Overall, it’s a versatile oil that has been commercialised due to its effectiveness, and it’s an oil that we see continuing to reign in the beauty sector.
Extracting Parsley Oil
Like most essential oils on the market, Parsley Oil is made using a process called steam distillation. To make the oil you need to use the dried parsley seeds, which will then be put into the steam distiller. Steam is then used to gently lift the oil from the seeds, and at the end of the process you’ll be left with cooled water and a layer of oil on the top. The oil is then skimmed from the top and put into bottles, and that’s how the oil is made! It’s a common method used on a commercial scale as it’s a fairly quick process but doesn’t damage the yield or the quality of the essential oil. Parsley thrives in moist soil, but can also be grown in hotter climates without dying. It’s ‘drought resistant’ meaning that a lot of countries with varying seasons can technically grow parsley all year long.
Can I make Parsley Oil at home?
Yes, you can. Providing you have a steam distiller and parsley seeds then you can make the essential oil in the comfort of your own home. If you are someone who regularly makes essential oils or likes experimenting for fun, then we recommend buying a steam distiller as that would be more cost effective than renting one. If you wanted to make parsley oil using the raw herb rather than the seed, this would only be suitable for cooking as it wouldn’t be the essential oil, more so blended parsley leaves in a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.
What do you think of Parsley Oil? Have you made it at home and what was the outcome? Our team loves to hear from you, so feel free to reach out to them today and share your stories.
Can I make Parsley Oil at home?
Yes, you can. Providing you have a steam distiller and parsley seeds then you can make the essential oil in the comfort of your own home. If you are someone who regularly makes essential oils or likes experimenting for fun, then we recommend buying a steam distiller as that would be more cost effective than renting one. If you wanted to make parsley oil using the raw herb rather than the seed, this would only be suitable for cooking as it wouldn’t be the essential oil, more so blended parsley leaves in a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.
What do you think of Parsley Oil? Have you made it at home and what was the outcome? Our team loves to hear from you, so feel free to reach out to them today and share your stories.
Parsley Oil Varieties
Parsley Oil Varieties
There are over 30 varieties of parsley, with the most common being flat leaf parsley and curly parsley. The herb itself is mostly used in cooking to either garnish or add flavour to a dish. There is nothing to suggest that the seed (which is used to make the oil) differs between the two varieties. Unlike other essential oils, lemon being a good example, there aren’t any stand out varieties of parsley oil which are more beneficial than others. The oil itself has been commercialised across a number of ‘natural beauty’ brands such as Aesop and Kielhs, but even these brands don’t specify which variation of parsley oil they use in their products. Parsley Oil today is widely used in skincare for face washes, oils, serums and anti-ageing treatments.
So, which variety of Parsley Oil should I use?
Because there isn’t a stand out variety, in theory it doesn’t matter which variety of Parsley Oil you use, as even the scent (based on our research) is similar regardless of which variation you buy. Our only advice is to buy from brands which sell 100% “essential” or “absolute” parsley oil. This eliminates the chance of buying an oil which is either pre mixed with a carrier oil to bulk it out, or purchasing an oil which is cheaply made and contains alcohols and preservatives, thus damaging the oils quality overall. There will also be specific essential oils for diffusers and skincare, so ensure that if a brand differentiates between the two, you are mindful to purchase the correct oil depending on what you want to use it for.
What do you think of Parsley Oil? Is there a particular variety that you prefer? As always, the team loves to hear your stories and how you’re getting the most out of your collection. So, feel free to reach out to one of the team today.
So, which variety of Parsley Oil should I use?
Because there isn’t a stand out variety, in theory it doesn’t matter which variety of Parsley Oil you use, as even the scent (based on our research) is similar regardless of which variation you buy. Our only advice is to buy from brands which sell 100% “essential” or “absolute” parsley oil. This eliminates the chance of buying an oil which is either pre-mixed with a carrier oil to bulk it out, or purchasing an oil which is cheaply made and contains alcohols and preservatives, thus damaging the oils quality overall.
What do you think of Parsley Oil? Is there a particular variety that you prefer? As always, the team loves to hear your stories and how you’re getting the most out of your collection. So, feel free to reach out to one of the team today.
Benefits of Parsley Oil
Parsley Oil is a popular oil that was initially used in Greek culture across medicine, beauty and cooking. The scientific name for parsley is Petroselinum Sativum and there are over 30 varieties of Parsley on the market. It was mostly used across the mediterranean in countries like Greece, Portugal, Turkey, Morocco and Tunisia. The anti-inflammatory and soothing qualities of Parsley Oil quickly landed it as a staple for treating minor wounds, abrasions, cuts and bruises, and later on its benefits for skincare and feminine health were discovered, and Parsley Oil was seen as a holistic treatment for a number of issues. Today, Parsley Oil is mostly used in skincare and aromatherapy, and is a fairly accessible oil on a commercial scale, too.
So, what are the benefits of Parsley Oil?
Cleanses and tones the skin
There’s a reason why Parsley Oil is popular in high end natural skincare, and that’s because it’s incredibly effective at cleansing and toning the skin without the need to use harsh chemicals
Soothes and treats acne
Unlike some natural acne treatments, Parsley Oil focuses on soothing and nourishing the skin and gently cleaning it of dirt, oil, grime and sebum build up. It can be an effective treatment for those who suffer with hormonal breakouts or acne.
Detoxifies
When applied topically, Parsley Oil is a natural antioxidant especially for congested, dull and stressed skin. You can dilute some of the oil in warm water or in a carrier oil and massage into your face for 1-2 minutes as a detoxifying treatment or a toner.
Antimicrobial Properties
Parsley Oil is known for its various medicinal properties, and its antimicrobial makeup makes it beneficial if you’re looking to stop bacteria from spreading topically. A small bottle of Parsley Oil is particularly helpful if you’re in sports or like to travel often, and need a small (but mighty) fix to help you if you have any cuts, bruises or scrapes along the way.
Stimulates scalp and promotes hair growth
You can use Parsley Oil on your scalp to help promote hair growth, as well as helping you retain your natural hair colour when used on a regular basis.
Antiseptic Properties
Similar to being antimicrobial, Parsley Oil is great if you’re looking for a natural antiseptic that packs a punch. Again, super handy if you’re someone who travels a lot and needs something that won’t take up too much space in your bag but will still be super effective.
Please note that the benefits of Parsley Oil will vary from person to person, and what works for you may not work for someone else. If you are on any medication or current treatments for acne, please consult with your dermatologist before introducing a natural remedy like Parsley Oil into your regime.
Uses of Parsley Oil
Parsley Oil is an oil which has been popular for hundreds of years across medicine, healthcare and skincare. It was mostly used by the Greek’s as a medicine and tonic. It has a number of health benefits and valuable properties such as being antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It was mostly used by countries across the Mediterranean, but over time grew in popularity and accessibility, and is an oil that now has worldwide popularity. Parsley Oil today is commonly found in a lot of skincare products, and has been commercialised by a number of high end natural beauty and skincare brands, the most notable being Aesop, who have a collection solely based on Parsley Oil. The oil itself is made from the parsley seeds, and is an oil which could be made in the comfort of your own home.
So, what can I use Parsley Oil for?
Aromatherapy
With its woody, herbaceous scent, Parsley Oil is used to cleanse and calm in aromatherapy, and can be used on its own or blended with others to create beautiful blends.
Skincare
Parsley Oil is popular in skincare, and has been commercialised by a number of brands due to the soothing qualities of the oil when used topically. It can tighten and brighten the skin without leaving your complexion feeling dry, and can be used on acne-prone and sensitive skin. It decongests and clears, and can be a great alternative if you want to stick to an all natural skincare routine.
Hair care
The oil can be applied directly to your scalp and massaged in (like a hair mask) to promote hair growth and keep your natural colour thriving. You can use this a couple of times per week as an effective home remedy.
Cuts, grazes, abrasions
Parsley Oil has antiseptic, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it perfectly placed to be used on minor cuts, grazes, abrasions and sores. This is what Parsley Oil was originally used for, and it’s a great oil to carry around if you’re someone who travels frequently or plays a lot of sport, as it’s a quick and effective remedy.
Fragrance
Despite its medicinal and healing qualities, Parsley Oil has a gorgeous smell, which can be used to make your own fragrances should you wish to do so. It can also be added into moisturisers and oils which have no scent.
Blends well with
Here at Essentially Yours we love sharing our tips, tricks and knowledge with you; enabling you to get the most out of your essential oil collection. We share important information such as an oils history, benefits, blends and uses so you can understand exactly what each oil can do for you. In this blog we’re going to talk about Parsley Oil and what it blends well with. So, if you want to learn more - keep reading!
Jojoba Oil
We love Jojoba Oil as it’s an amazing carrier oil for those who are looking for something that is lightweight to put on the skin. Parsley Oil and Jojoba Oil are a match made in heaven, and can be an effective blend to be used as an evening treatment to tighten the skin. You can also use a stronger concentration of the two to target pimples and minor breakouts.
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Almond Oil
Sweet and silky, Almond Oil is a great carrier oil to blend with Parsley Oil if you’re looking to create a massage oil blend. You can focus on a higher concentration of Parsley Oil if you wish, or you can blend with other pain relievers such as Clary Sage Oil, too. If you prefer almond over jojoba, you can also use this on your face providing it doesn’t cause any blemishes or spots.
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Tea Tree Oil
Medicinal and herbaceous, this blend is excellent if you’re looking to do acute spot treatment and calm down irritated skin. Remember to always blend with a carrier oil, but this is a great blend if you struggle with sensitive skin but still need an effective treatment.
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Lavender Oil
Soothing and floral, this blend works well if you’re looking to create a massage oil which will relieve you of pain whilst also enabling you to get some rest. The sedating effect of Lavender Oil combined with the pain relief of Parsley Oil is a great match.
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Clary Sage Oil
We love clary sage as it’s such an effective pain reliever. Blend with Parsley Oil to create an excellent mixture which can be used to tackle menstrual pain, muscular and joint pain, as well as general tightness/stiffness in the whole body.
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Orange Oil
Citrusy and a little sweet, we love this blend because it can be put in your electric diffuser and scent your home beautifully. This blend can also work well in the bath to relax you and excite your senses with the gorgeous, warming scent that Orange Oil has.
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