(coriandrum sativa)
Coriander is a strongly aromatic annual herb that grows about 1 metre in height. It is native to Europe and Western Asia but is now grown all round the world. The Persians grew this herb over 3,000 years ago and used it to add fragrance to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Both seed and leaf are used for culinary purposes and in medicine.
What it does
The herb contains a variety of compounds including volatile oil, sterols and phenolic acids. It is a stimulant, carminative (wind relieving) and warming.
Potential Uses
| Colic | Flatulence | Diarrhoea |
| Gastroenteritis | Nausea | Piles |
| Poor digestion |
Benefits of Coriander
Coriander is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. It is also a good source of antioxidants.
Some of the potential health benefits of coriander include:
- Improved digestion: Coriander contains compounds that can help to stimulate the production of digestive juices and promote better digestion.
- Reduced inflammation: Coriander contains antioxidants and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Boosted immune system: Coriander is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
- Reduced cholesterol levels: Coriander has been shown to lower cholesterol levels.
- Lower blood pressure: Coriander has been shown to lower blood pressure.
- Reduced blood sugar levels: Coriander has been shown to lower blood sugar levels.
- Improved oral health: Coriander can help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
How Coriander is Used in Medicine
Coriander is used in medicine to treat and prevent a variety of conditions, including:
- Digestive problems
- Inflammation
- Immune system problems
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Oral health problems
Coriander is available in a variety of forms, including fresh, dried, ground, and as an essential oil. It can also be found in capsules, tablets, and extracts.
Examples of Coriander Medicines
There are a number of different coriander medicines available on the market. Some popular brands include:
- Coriander Extract
- Coriander Seed Powder
- Coriander Essential Oil
- Coriander Liver Support
Natural Remedies Using Coriander
Here are a few helpful recipes for using coriander at home:
- Coriander tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried coriander seeds in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain the tea and drink it warm.
- Coriander chutney: Grind together 1 cup of fresh coriander leaves, 1/2 cup of cilantro, 1/4 cup of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Serve the chutney with your favorite Indian dishes.
- Coriander-lime rice: Cook 1 cup of rice according to package directions. Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro leaves, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Serve the rice hot.
Conclusion
Coriander is a versatile herb with a wide range of health benefits. It is a safe and effective way to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, lower cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, lower blood sugar levels, and improve oral health.
If you are considering using coriander, be sure to talk to your doctor first. Coriander may interact with certain medications, so it is important to make sure that it is safe for you to take.
Other information
The leaves or seeds can be made into herbal tea, and the leaves may be added to salad to give a peppery flavour. Essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to treat arthritic and rheumatic pain.
Cautions
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with coriander.
