Seeds of the celery plant.
Why it’s used: Traditionally used to support joint comfort and uric acid balance.
Celery seed comes from Apium graveolens, the same plant that gives us crunchy celery sticks. The tiny brown seeds are produced by the wild-type plant, and they have a warm, slightly bitter flavour that turns up in pickling spice, celery salt and coleslaw dressings. Seeds, stalks and oil are all part of normal diets around the world.
In herbal practice the seeds have a much longer story. Celery seed has been used in Ayurvedic, Chinese and European traditions, and it is traditionally used to support joint comfort and uric acid balance. In supplements you will usually see it listed as celery seed extract or Apium graveolens seed, in capsules or tablets, sometimes alongside tart cherry, which is often chosen for the same purpose.
Laboratory studies have explored antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in celery seed compounds, and researchers have suggested possible roles in joint and uric acid health, but good clinical trials in people are lacking. Celery is also one of the 14 major food allergens in the UK, so it is always highlighted on product labels.
3 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
Randomised double-blind multicentre trial in 62 adults with knee osteoarthritis taking 300 mg Boswellia plus 250 mg celery seed extract or placebo for 90 days. The combination eased pain, stiffness and swelling and lowered cartilage breakdown markers, with no adverse effects; the study was funded by the product maker.
Animal study testing water and oil extracts of celery seed. In mice with induced high uric acid, both extracts lowered serum uric acid and xanthine oxidase, and in rats they reduced ankle swelling and inflammatory markers.
Mouse study with induced high uric acid, given 250–1,000 mg/kg celery extract for two weeks. The highest dose brought serum uric acid back to near-normal (2.7 vs 4.6 mg/dL) and reduced liver xanthine oxidase activity.
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Celery seed is traditionally used to support joint comfort and uric acid balance. It is often paired with tart cherry in supplements. Laboratory research has explored its plant compounds, but clinical trials in people are still lacking.
No. Celery is one of the 14 major allergens in UK food law, and reactions can range from skin rashes to anaphylaxis. If you have a celery allergy, or react strongly to birch pollen, avoid celery seed supplements.
No. Celery seed in supplement amounts is considered unsafe during pregnancy because it may stimulate the womb. Normal amounts of celery as a vegetable or spice in food are fine.
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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