Coriander - The magic herb

Coriander, also known as Cilantro in some parts of America and Europe, is an ancient herb cultivated for more than 3500 years. Mainly grown in South west Asia and North Africa, coriander leaves are used primarily as a garnish and to enhance the smell in dishes and as a spice in its dried form.

Personally, I love the refreshing smell of this attractive herb however the fact that it is also one of the most effective albeit underrated spices, made me research more about it and what I unveiled brought my admiration to even greater heights.

Coriander has various components of essential oils, different types of acids and numerous minerals and vitamins. Read on to discover the secrets of this aromatic herb!

Cholesterol: The seeds of coriander are said to contain certain acids (palmitic, linoleic, oleic, ascorbic) which help in lowering the blood cholesterol level and also reduces the deposition of harmful (LDL) cholesterol in the inner walls of the arteries. Coriander also helps in increasing good (HDL) cholesterol in blood.

Anemia: Coriander is said to have high iron content and its regular addition to our dishes helps in increasing the hemoglobin count in blood.

Digestive Disorders: The presence of aromatic essential oils helps in the proper secretion of enzymes and digestive juices aiding in the proper functioning of the digestive process.

Typhoid and Gastric Ailments: The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (2004), published the amazing fact that coriander contains the compound dodecenal which is twice as effective in fighting the deadly bacteria Salmonella which causes most of the gastro infections related to food.

In Ayurveda (alternative medicine) coriander juice is extracted to treat various digestive ailments.

Eye disorders: Being rich in anti-oxidants and also vitamins (A,C), minerals and essential oils, coriander has lot of properties which prevents the eyes from becoming stressed. A decoction of coriander seeds is known to be used externally during conjunctivitis.

Inflammation and Swelling: Swelling and inflammation caused due to rheumatism, arthritis, anemia and kidney disorders are said to be curbed by coriander because of the presence of essential oils and also the property of excretion of excess water from the body.

Apart from the above coriander plays doctor to multiple other diseases and disorders. Coriander helps in preventing mouth ulcers, reduces menstrual cramps and pains, prevents nausea, relives gas and also beneficial for skin disorders like pimples, blackheads and dry skin.

Caution: Even though coriander has not been found to be harmful for anybody, the essential oils sometimes causes reaction which might lead to dermatitis. Before use of any alternative medicine please consult your physician to rule out the possibilities of allergic reactions.