Marsh Acacia whole seed – Apium graveolens

An aromatic plant of the Apiaceae family, swamp acorn is cultivated for both its leaves and its seeds. These are harvested when ripe, dried, and then packaged whole. They contain powerful aromatic compounds and essential oils that have been used for centuries to season or warm the body.

Description

Celery seeds are small, oval, slightly ridged, and grayish-brown in color. Their powerful aroma is reminiscent of fennel, dill, and fresh celery. Highly concentrated in aromatic active ingredients, they are often used in small quantities. Once ground, they reveal even more of their aromatic power. They are traditionally found in spice blends or aperitif infusions.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Celery seed, celery seed, celery seed
• Latin name: Apium graveolens
• Family: Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)
• Part used: Whole seeds
• Form: Whole, dried
• Origin: Europe, Asia, Mediterranean Basin
• English name: Celery seed
• Name in German: Selleriesamen
• Name in Spanish: Semilla de apio
• Name in Italian: Semi di sedano
• Name in Arabic: بذور الكرفس (Boudhour al-karafs)

Main virtues

Traditionally used to aid digestion, kidney elimination, and appetite stimulation, ach seed is also a sought-after condiment for its unique organoleptic qualities. It is incorporated into spicy dishes or infusions with invigorating accents.

Main constituents

Essential oils (limonene, butylphthalide), flavonoids, coumarins, fatty acids, proteins, minerals (iron, calcium).

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 teaspoon of crushed seeds for 250 ml of boiling water. Infuse for 8 to 10 minutes.
• Cooking: in marinades, sauces, fermented vegetables, breads or flavored vinegars.
• Homemade powder: grind just before use to preserve all the aromas.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Not recommended for pregnant women (potential uterine action).
• Possible allergen in people sensitive to celery or Apiaceae.
• May increase sensitivity to the sun (presence of furanocoumarins).

History and origin

Celery seeds were already used in ancient Egypt and Greece as a remedy and offering. Celery is mentioned by Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder. In medieval diets, the seeds were used in digestive elixirs and aromatic wines.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: in an opaque, airtight container, at room temperature.
• Packaging: in kraft bag, tube or amber glass jar.
• Appearance: small oval brownish seeds with golden highlights.
• Taste: intense, warm, aromatic, slightly bitter.

Sources and references

• APIUM Monograph – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• USDA GRIN database – https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov
• Ancient European Pharmacopoeia
• Traditional Herbalism and Ancient Greek Texts

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