Does Celery Cause Inflammation in the Body? The Truth Revealed

December 21, 2025 •

4 min read

Celery contains at least 12 different types of antioxidant nutrients, including vitamin C and beta carotene, which combat oxidative stress and cellular damage. So, does celery cause inflammation in the body, or is it a powerful anti-inflammatory food? The answer may surprise you, as the science points toward significant anti-inflammatory benefits.

Quick Summary

Celery is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, not cause it. Potential side effects are typically minor and linked to excessive intake or allergies, not a pro-inflammatory effect.

Key Points

Celery is Anti-Inflammatory: Scientific studies indicate that celery contains numerous anti-inflammatory compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, which actively reduce inflammation.
Antioxidants Combat Damage: The antioxidants in celery, including vitamin C and beta carotene, help neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress and subsequent inflammation.
Supports Digestive Health: Specific polysaccharides in celery have been shown to protect against inflammation in the digestive tract, aiding gut health.
Excessive Intake Can Cause Issues: Over-consumption of celery, especially in juiced form, can lead to side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort due to mannitol and increased sun sensitivity from psoralens.
Allergies Are Possible: Though not a cause of general inflammation, some individuals can have a severe allergic reaction to celery, which can include symptoms like skin rashes and swelling.
Organic is Recommended: Non-organic celery may contain high levels of pesticide residue. Opting for organic varieties is a safer choice for regular consumption.

Understanding Inflammation and Its Causes

Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, infection, or toxins. In its acute form, it is a healthy process. However, chronic, low-grade inflammation is linked to many long-term health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. A variety of factors can contribute to chronic inflammation, including poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and certain foods like processed meats and refined carbohydrates. This has led many to question the inflammatory potential of various foods, including celery.

The Anti-Inflammatory Power of Celery

Contrary to speculation, the scientific consensus is that celery is an anti-inflammatory food. It is packed with powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients that work to reduce inflammation throughout the body. These compounds protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, a key driver of inflammation.

Key Anti-Inflammatory Compounds in Celery

Apigenin: This flavonoid is a potent antioxidant that research has shown can disrupt pathways associated with inflammation. Studies suggest it can reduce inflammation in blood vessels and other organs.
Luteolin: Another flavonoid found in celery, luteolin has also demonstrated powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
Polysaccharides: Celery contains pectin-based polysaccharides, such as apiuman, which have been shown to protect the digestive tract from inflammation.
Vitamin C and Beta Carotene: These well-known antioxidants are abundant in celery and help neutralize free radicals.

Research Supporting Celery's Benefits

Numerous studies have investigated celery's anti-inflammatory properties, often using concentrated celery extracts from the leaves and seeds. A 2021 study evaluated celery leaf and stem extracts and found they suppressed nitric oxide (NO) production in macrophages, a key marker of inflammation. The study also revealed that celery extracts could reverse adverse metabolic changes associated with inflammatory responses.

Potential Side Effects and When to Be Cautious

While celery is largely beneficial, potential issues can arise, particularly with excessive consumption or pre-existing conditions. These do not mean celery causes inflammation, but rather point to specific sensitivities or reactions.

Celery Allergies: For some individuals, celery can trigger a severe allergic reaction, with symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to anaphylaxis. Those with allergies to wild carrot, birch, or mugwort pollen may be at higher risk.
Phototoxicity: Celery contains compounds called psoralens that can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn, rashes, or blistering, especially with high intake of celery juice.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort: The high fiber content in celery, along with a sugar alcohol called mannitol, can cause bloating, gas, or diarrhea in some people, particularly when consumed in large amounts.
Pesticide Residue: Non-organic celery is often high in pesticide residues, which can pose health risks. Choosing organic varieties can help mitigate this concern.

Comparison Table: Raw Celery vs. Celery Juice


Feature	Raw Celery	Celery Juice
Fiber Content	High in both soluble and insoluble fiber.	Significantly reduced or absent.
Nutrient Density	Provides a broader spectrum of nutrients due to intact fiber.	Contains concentrated vitamins and minerals.
Anti-inflammatory Effects	Excellent due to combined antioxidants and fiber.	Potent due to concentrated antioxidants.
Glycemic Impact	Low, resulting in a slow, steady effect on blood sugar.	Potentially higher without fiber, though still low overall.
Risk of Side Effects	Lower risk of concentrated effects, gradual release.	Higher risk for sun sensitivity and gastrointestinal issues due to concentrated psoralens and mannitol.
Best for...	Overall digestive health and satiety.	Boosting nutrient intake, but best in moderation.

Celery in an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle

Incorporating celery into your diet is a simple and effective way to boost your intake of anti-inflammatory compounds. As part of a larger anti-inflammatory diet, it is a valuable tool for promoting overall health. The key is balance and moderation. Eating whole, raw celery provides the added benefits of dietary fiber, which is crucial for a healthy gut microbiome, and overall digestive health. For those who prefer juice, it's vital to start with small quantities and monitor your body's reaction. Pairing celery with other anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, and berries is an effective strategy for managing chronic inflammation.

Conclusion: So, Does Celery Cause Inflammation in the Body?

In conclusion, the claim that celery causes inflammation is a myth. Scientific evidence overwhelmingly points to celery as a powerful anti-inflammatory food, thanks to its rich content of antioxidants and phytonutrients like apigenin and luteolin. For the vast majority of people, incorporating celery into a balanced diet is a beneficial strategy for reducing chronic inflammation and promoting overall wellness. However, it's important to be mindful of potential side effects, such as allergies or sun sensitivity, especially when consuming highly concentrated forms like juice. As with any food, moderation is key to reaping the benefits without adverse effects.

Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Celery Leaf and Stem Extracts

Frequently Asked Questions

Celery contains several anti-inflammatory compounds, most notably the flavonoids apigenin and luteolin. These potent antioxidants help to disrupt inflammatory pathways in the body and protect cells from damage.

Celery juice concentrates the anti-inflammatory compounds found in raw celery. It can be a beneficial addition to an anti-inflammatory diet, but should be consumed in moderation due to the concentration of certain compounds like psoralens.

Yes, some individuals are allergic to celery, and reactions can range from mild symptoms like itching to severe anaphylaxis. People with pollen allergies may be more susceptible.

Eating excessive amounts of celery can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas, due to its fiber and mannitol content. High intake, particularly of juice, can also increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.

While small, food-level amounts are safe, celery seed and oil extracts are considered unsafe during pregnancy as they may stimulate uterine contractions. It is best to stick to regular, food-based consumption.

Yes, celery may interact with certain medications. Celery root or seed extract could affect blood clotting medications or medications for high blood pressure or low thyroid function. Always consult a doctor if you are on medication.

Considering celery often ranks high on lists of produce with the most pesticide residue, opting for organic celery can help minimize your exposure to these chemicals.