Coriandrum sativum is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. It is also known as Chinese parsley, dhania or cilantro.  All parts of the plant are edible, but the fresh leaves and the dried seeds (as a spice) are the parts most traditionally used in cooking.

Most people perceive the taste of coriander leaves as a tart, lemon/lime taste, but to nearly a quarter of those surveyed, the leaves taste like dish soap, linked to a gene that detects some specific aldehydes that are also used as odorant substances in many soaps and detergents.^[rx]

Coriandrum sativum also commonly known as Coriander or Cilantro, is a solid stemmed, slender and annual plant that reaches 60 centimeters high. The lower leaves have broad leaflets and the upper leaves are divided into narrowly linear segments. The plant bears small white or pink flowers. Each umbel has infertile middle flowers and outer flowers are fertile and slightly larger. Fruits are globose in shape, ridged, yellowish-brown and 3 mm in diameter.

Coriander is originated in the eastern Mediterranean region and evidence shows that it was already used in the Neolithic period in Israel. Both the Romans and Greeks used it. Coriander was brought to northwestern Europe by the Romans. It also reached China and India. When coriander is crushed it gives a reminiscent odor of stink bugs. Leaves are widely used in various cuisines in the world. The dried seeds lose this odor and are replaced with a mild aromatic flavor. It is used in meat dishes, curries, sweets, bread, and alcoholic drinks. India, Morocco, Romania, Pakistan, and the former Soviet Union are the major world producers.

Coriander seeds are loaded with nutrients such as high content of antioxidants, dietary fiber, Vitamin C, B, copper, potassium, manganese, magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc. It also contains moderate amounts of fat and protein. The smell is due to the presence of volatile oils and antioxidants that includes linalool, linoleic acid, terpene, alpha-pinene, oleic acid, and others.

History

Coriander is cultivated in Greece at least the second millennium BC. It is referred to as the species which is cultivated for manufacturing perfumes and is used in two forms such as herb for the flavor of its leaves and as a spice for its seeds. Archaeological evidence confirms from the same period. The species was retrieved in large quantities from the Early Bronze Age layer at Sitagroi in Macedonia which pointed to the cultivation of the species at that time. In 1670, Coriander was taken to British North America which was one of the first species which was cultivated by early settlers.

Health Benefits of Coriander

As coriander is a spice, it has various culinary uses. Besides its exotic flavor, it is used to promote overall health to lower cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure protect from food poisoning as well as digestive problems. It is helpful for treating swellings, diarrhea, mouth ulcers, digestion, anemia, smallpox, menstrual problems, digestion, skin disorders, conjunctivitis, eye care, and blood sugar disorders.

1. Skin health

The research shows that coriander seeds effectively cure skin problems such as itchy skin, eczema, inflammation, and rashes as it possess antiseptic properties. It is also used to cure mouth sores and ulcers. Seeds possess linoleic acid which possesses pain-relieving properties that help to lower irritation.

2. Diabetes treatment

Diabetes has become a common health problem. Some practices have claimed that the daily use of coriander seeds helps to normalize blood sugar. The studies have shown that extracts from coriander seeds contain certain compounds which when discharged into blood cause anti-hyperglycemic, insulin discharging which held the glucose level within proper limits. Coriander is a natural aid to cure diabetes and lower blood sugar. So add coriander to the diet. Animal studies have shown that it assist the stimulation of insulin and reduce blood sugar. It improves carbohydrate metabolism and promotes hypoglycemic activities. It enhances the secretion of insulin from the pancreas and exhibits insulin-like activities at the cellular level.

3. Supports digestion

Coriander acts like an antispasmodic drug that helps to relax contracted digestive muscles which cause discomfort of IBS and other problematic gut problems. The study evaluated the coriander preparation lowered severity and frequency of abdominal pain as well as discomfort. Coriander seeds contain antioxidant properties as well as dietary fiber which support the healthy function of the liver and also facilitate bowel movements. It assists in the generation of digestive compounds and facilitates digestion. Add coriander seeds to the diet by those who experience indigestion.

4. Normalize cholesterol level

Study shows that the addition of coriander to the diet lowers bad cholesterol levels. The animal study shows that a significant reduction in bad cholesterol or LDL and increase in cholesterol level was shown with coriander seeds. This spice might be helpful for those who are seeking to lower overall cholesterol and balance LDL and HDL cholesterol. Coriander seeds contain coriander which is a compound that controls the lipid digestion process by lowering cholesterol levels.

5. Prevent urinary tract infections

Coriander seeds help to provide relief from symptoms of urinary tract infection. Soak dried coriander seeds (1.5 teaspoons) in two cups of water overnight. Strain it and drink or it could be added to morning smoothies. It provides relief from discomfort and pain related to Urinary tract infections and also speeds up the healing process.

6. Menstrual health

Coriander seeds support menstrual health by regulating proper endocrine gland function and hormones that regulate menstrual cycles. Moreover, coriander lowers cramps, bloating, and pain during the menstrual cycle. Those women who suffer from heavy menstrual flow should add coriander seeds to the diet. It contains natural stimulants that help to stimulate endocrine glands for secretion and maintain hormonal balance which ensures that related pain is lowered and also alleviates excess flow. It also prevents menstrual irregularities.

7. Prevent neurodegenerative disease

Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, and meningitis are related to chronic inflammation. The study shows that a diet rich in pepper, turmeric, ginger, clove, cinnamon, garlic, and coriander helps to prevent neurodegenerative diseases. The research found that diets rich in these nutrients lowered the chances of neurological degeneration.

8. Treatment for flu and cold

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is essential for beautiful skin and a sound body. Coriander seeds contain vital vitamins such as beta carotene, vitamin A, folic acid and vitamin C. Coriander seeds contain about 30% of vitamin C which helps to cure flue and cold.

Traditional uses

• Chew the raw seeds for stimulating the flow of gastric juices and aids foul breath.
• Apply the poultice made from seeds for treating rheumatic pains.
• Essential oil is used for aromatherapy.
• Boil the coriander seeds with water and use this water to lower and treat mouth ulcers.
• Use the boiled coriander water for curing skin rashes and itchy skin.
• It supports healthy digestion.
• Add coriander seeds to the diet in case of flatulence and bloating.
• Use the decoction made from coriander seeds to wash your eyes for treating conjunctivitis.
• Chew the seeds for preventing halitosis.
• Drink coriander water or tea for calming swollen throat or mouth.
• Use it in ointments for providing relief from arthritis and rheumatism.

Precautions  

• It might cause allergic reactions such as swollen or itchy lips or tongue, hives, stomach pain, coughing, cramps, vomiting and diarrhea.
• Its severe allergic reaction causes anaphylaxis.
• Use it in small doses.
• It might increase sensitivity to the sun.
• The person who is allergic to caraway, aniseed, mugwort, fennel, and similar plants might be allergic to coriander as well.
• Diabetic patients should monitor blood sugar levels when taking this spice.
• People who are taking blood pressure medications to reduce it should be careful because it lowers the level of blood pressure.

How to Eat         

• Seeds are used as a spice or added as an ingredient in foods.
• The essential oil extracted from seeds is used for flavoring foods.
• It is used as a vital ingredient in Indian curries.
• Fruits are used for salads and soups.
• Use the coriander seeds in stews, confectionery, sweetbreads, sausages, and cakes.
• Coriander seeds are used in Russian dark rye bread.
• In India, coriander seeds are grounded in form of powder which is used for chutneys, pickling, stews, marinades, curries, and sausages.
• Roasted seeds of coriander are consumed as snacks.
• Coriander seeds are used widely for pickling vegetables.
• In Central Europe and Russia, Coriander seeds are used as an infrequent ingredient in rye bread as a substitute for caraway.
• Coriander seeds are used to brew beer.

References

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