Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) - Chervil is a fragile biennial herb that is gene... | Classical Remedies

Chervil is a fragile biennial herb that is generally an annual plant and is a member of the parsley family. The stems are brittle and has a fine fern-like foliage with a subtle aniseed flavour. The flowers are white followed by longish narrowed seeds which are borne in umbels in summer, it is also associated with Easter because its aroma is similar to that of myrrh 

Cultivation

Chervil is grown in The Mediterranean and western Asia from seed sown in early spring or autumn. plant the seeds where the plants are to grow and carefully thin out later. this plant does not cope well with heat so autumn plantings are preferred in most areas of Australia. The plant will not thrive in full sun so a semi-shaded location is needed with plenty of sun in winter . A position in amongst other trees is perfect. The soil needs to be rich with organic matter and kept moist. Alternatively chervil can be grown in a pot. This plant has very pretty foliage. After flowering the plant dies, so remove flower stems as soon as they appear or if some flowers are left to mature, the plants will self-seed readily. 

Health Benefits and uses of Chervil 

• one ingredient in classic French seasoning fine herbs along with tarragon, parsley and chives
• used fresh, add in the last few minutes of cooking to preserve the flavour
• added to soups, egg, vegetable and salad dishes
• complements fish and chicken.

• used in spring tonics for thousands of years

• purification aid.

• aid to sluggish digestion

• used as a soothing eye wash
• cleanses the blood in spring

• rich in minerals and vitamins

• helps acne and eczema

• circulation when taken as a herbal tea

• Treatment of varicose veins

• Relieve fluid retention

• bladder disorders

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Chervil

• should not be used during pregnancy
• no known side effects