How quickly does celery lower blood pressure? Unveiling the speed and science behind it

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

While celery has long been a folk remedy for hypertension, scientific studies show that consistent, long-term consumption is key, not an instant fix. It is important to understand that no food, including celery, can provide an immediate or rapid reduction in blood pressure similar to prescription medication. Knowing how quickly does celery lower blood pressure requires understanding the bioactive compounds at play and realistic expectations for dietary changes.

Quick Summary

Celery contains bioactive compounds like 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) and apigenin, which help relax blood vessels and act as a diuretic, but its effects on blood pressure are gradual, not immediate. Regular, daily intake, such as specific extracts or consistent consumption, is required to see noticeable changes over several weeks or months. Its efficacy depends on consistent use and overall lifestyle habits, not a quick solution.

Key Points

Gradual, Not Instantaneous: The blood pressure-lowering effects of celery occur over weeks or months of consistent use, not immediately after a single serving.
Bioactive Compounds are Key: Celery's effects are driven by phytonutrients like 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP), a natural calcium channel blocker, and apigenin, a diuretic and vasodilator.
Daily Consistency is Required: For noticeable results, regular daily intake is necessary, with some studies showing effects within weeks to months with consistent consumption.
No Magic Bullet: Celery is a supportive dietary tool, not a substitute for prescribed medication or a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet and exercise.
Consult a Doctor: Individuals with hypertension should consult a healthcare provider before using celery, especially if on blood-thinning medication like warfarin, or if they have low blood pressure.

The Science Behind Celery's Blood Pressure-Lowering Effects

The notion that certain foods can help manage hypertension is well-established, and celery is a prime example. The primary reason celery is linked to blood pressure reduction lies in its rich profile of phytonutrients, particularly 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) and apigenin. These compounds work through specific biological mechanisms within the body to promote cardiovascular health. A 2024 review in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) journal highlighted that multiple human and animal studies confirm celery's positive effect on hypertension. The therapeutic effect is not instantaneous but rather a cumulative result of consistent dietary intake.

How Bioactive Compounds Influence Blood Pressure

3-n-butylphthalide (NBP): This specific compound is a natural calcium channel blocker and smooth muscle relaxant. By relaxing the smooth muscles in the walls of the arteries, NBP allows blood vessels to dilate. Wider blood vessels reduce the pressure of blood flowing through them, leading to lower blood pressure readings.
Apigenin: This flavonoid acts in several ways to support cardiovascular health. It promotes the overexpression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), an enzyme that helps regulate blood pressure. Apigenin also functions as a diuretic, increasing urine production and helping the body flush out excess sodium, which further contributes to lower blood pressure.
Potassium: Celery is a good source of potassium, an essential electrolyte that helps balance sodium levels in the body. This mineral counteracts the effect of sodium, which is known to raise blood pressure, by increasing its excretion through urine.
Other mechanisms: Research suggests that celery's antioxidants can combat inflammation, which is a factor in conditions like atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and protect against free radicals that damage cells and tissues. These long-term protective effects contribute to overall heart health and stable blood pressure over time.

Timeline for Celery's Impact on Blood Pressure

Unlike medication, which is designed for rapid systemic action, the effects of adding celery to your diet are gradual. Studies and traditional recommendations point to a timeline measured in weeks or months, not hours or days. Realistic expectations are key to incorporating celery into a dietary plan for hypertension management.

Short-term (Immediate): Within hours of consuming celery, there is no significant, immediate change in blood pressure. Any minor fluctuations are more likely due to hydration and other dietary factors rather than a specific antihypertensive effect.
Mid-term (Weeks): Some studies show initial results within a few weeks of consistent, daily intake. For example, one trial found a decrease in systolic blood pressure within the first month for a participant consuming celery juice daily. Another study on celery seed extract showed a reduction in systolic and diastolic pressure after a period of weeks.
Long-term (Months): The most significant and sustainable changes are seen after consistent use over several months. A case report detailed a 74-year-old man who, after six months of drinking celery juice, achieved a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure. The long-term effects are crucial for addressing the underlying vascular health issues associated with chronic hypertension.

Comparison of Celery Intake Methods

To help understand the varying effects of different preparation methods, the following table compares common ways to consume celery for blood pressure management:


Method of Intake	Form of Celery	Dosage Example	Reported Timeline for Effect	Benefits & Considerations
Raw Celery	Whole stalks	Regular daily consumption is suggested	Noticeable results may take weeks	Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Simple and accessible. Potential for higher sodium intake if paired with salty dips.
Celery Juice	Blended or juiced	Regular daily consumption is suggested	Initial effects may be seen within weeks	Higher concentration of phytonutrients than raw celery, but lacks fiber. Can increase sodium intake if consumed in large quantities.
Celery Seed Extract	Capsules	Following manufacturer or healthcare professional instructions is advised	Significant reduction within a period of weeks	Standardized dosage for potentially more consistent results. Most researched form, though some studies show variation in effects. May not be suitable for everyone.
Cooked Celery	Included in meals	Various amounts	Effects may be gradual	Can be easily incorporated into soups and stews. Cooking may enhance the availability of certain compounds, but raw offers more nutrients.

The Role of a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle

While adding celery to your diet can be a supportive measure, it is not a standalone treatment for high blood pressure. Real, lasting blood pressure control is achieved through comprehensive lifestyle changes. The American Heart Association recommends a combination of dietary adjustments, exercise, and stress management. Key strategies include:

Following the DASH Diet: This diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy, is proven to lower blood pressure. It emphasizes nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Reducing Sodium Intake: Minimizing processed foods and added salt is crucial for managing hypertension, as a high-sodium diet can counteract celery’s benefits.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly impact blood pressure levels.
Engaging in Regular Exercise: Physical activity, like moderate-intensity exercise for 150 minutes per week, helps reduce blood pressure.
Limiting Alcohol and Quitting Smoking: Both habits negatively affect blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

Conclusion

So, how quickly does celery lower blood pressure? The answer is not overnight, but gradually over several weeks to months of consistent, daily intake. The therapeutic effects are not a 'magic' pill but the result of bioactive compounds like NBP and apigenin working to relax blood vessels and promote diuresis over time. For the best results, incorporate a daily intake of celery—whether raw, juiced, or as a seed extract—into a broader, heart-healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you have hypertension, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, and to discuss integrating dietary changes like adding celery into your regimen safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, a single celery stick will not have a significant, immediate impact on blood pressure. The bioactive compounds responsible for the effect require consistent, daily intake over a longer period to build up and produce a noticeable change.

Some recommendations suggest consistent daily consumption may be beneficial. Some studies on celery juice or extract use amounts equivalent to this or more.

Celery juice provides a more concentrated dose of the active compounds. However, raw celery offers additional fiber benefits. The best method depends on individual preference and the ability to consume it consistently.

No, celery should not replace blood pressure medication prescribed by a doctor. It is a complementary dietary addition, and any changes to your medication regimen should only be made under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Yes, consuming large quantities of celery or its extracts can have side effects. Those with low blood pressure should be cautious, and it may interfere with blood-thinning medications. People with celery allergies should also avoid it. Excessive celery juice can also increase sodium intake.

Yes, studies have shown that extracts from celery seeds can also be effective in lowering blood pressure. The extracts are often more concentrated and can be taken in capsule form for a more standardized dosage.

The main mechanism involves the relaxation of smooth muscles in blood vessel walls and increased urination, both of which are triggered by celery's compounds like 3-n-butylphthalide and apigenin.