Coriander (Coriandrum Sativum)

When I think about coriander the seed of the cilantro plant comes to mind.  Some of the research I read use the two words interchangeably. The Encyclopedia Britannica refers to it as Spanish cilantro. Native to the  Mediterranean and Middle East. Uses go back to Ancient Egypt and China.  “Records of the use of coriander date to 5000 bce (Before Common Era). The seeds are yellowish brown and have a mild, fragrant aroma and aromatic taste similar to a combination of lemon peel and sage. The seeds contain from 0.1 to 1 percent essential oil; its principal component is coriandrol.” (Encyclopedia Britannica)

A clinical study from Germany’s University of Hamburg Medical Center was made and confirmed that an ointment blended with six percent coriander seed oil helps treat athlete’s foot.( Mercola.com)

Fresh cilantro leaves helps to detox heavy metals from the body.

Aphrodisiac– Stimulates sexual desire. Should I say more?

Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal inhibits the growth of bacteria and yeast. Prevents bad breath. Coriander essential oils can reduce infection significantly.

Antimicrobial– Coriander has strong antimicrobial effects against food born pathogens. By adding a little  coriander seeds, powder or cilantro to each meal, you’re protecting yourself and your family against food poisoning.

Carminative and Digestive– Relieves flatulence and stomach aches.

Analgesic– Pain relief. It’s also known to help with urinary treat infections and the pain associated with it.

Stimulant– Makes you more active, gives you more energy.

Anti-spasmodic– Relieves or prevents muscle spasm.

Mental/Emotional Uses- It has a calming effect. Has a spiritual influence. Improves memory. Speeds up healing process, promotes confidence and motivation, promotes feeling of security.

Cautions – Not during pregnancy. Not on sensitive skin. Don’t use coriander essential oil on children under three years old. The whole or powdered seeds in foods are fine.

Latest Research– Studies have shown that coriander has anti-cancer affects – can inhibit heterocyclic amine (HCA) formation in meats during cooking. Reported by The American Journal Clinical Nutrition.  Coriander is  high in carotenoids (antioxidant abilities) , lowers blood sugar according two studies published in the Journal of Food Science. “It works both by enhancing the secretion of insulin from the pancreas and exhibiting insulin-like activity at the cellular level. You can combine two to three drops of coriander essential oil with a carrier oil and put it on the soles of your feet daily”. Researchers say it may prevent neurological inflammation and disease. this super herb also lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. Dr. Axe

Whether you buy the seeds, powder, essential oil( always dilute the oil, consult your local aromatherapist) or fresh cilantro, all forms of this amazing herb has numerous health benefits.

Reference:

Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy,Rochester,Vermont, Healing Arts Press,1998.

Keim-Loughran, Joni & Ruah Bull, Aromatherapy Anointing Oils:Spiritual blessings, Ceremonies & Affirmations, CA, Berkeley , Frog Books, 2001.

https://www.britannica.com/plant/coriander

http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/coriander-seed-oil.aspx

http://www.experience-essential-oils.com/coriander-essential-oil.html

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/corian99.html

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/299739.php

http://universityhealthnews.com/daily/heart-health/coriander/

https://draxe.com/coriander/