22 Health Benefits of Coriander

22 Health Benefits of Coriander

Coriandrum sativum (common name: Coriander) belonging to family Umbelliferae, is an  herb that is widely cultivated in India and possessing the nutritional as well as medicinal properties are among the most commonly used spices. The first medicinal uses of the plant were reported by the ancient Egyptians. The seeds are oval in shape, ridged, and turn from bright green to beige when ripen. This spice tastes sweet and tangy, with a slightly citrus flavor.  Both the leaves and seeds of the plant are used for medicinal purpose. Coriandrum sativum has been reported to have several pharmacological effects such as antifertility, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidmic, antioxidant, antiproliferative,  hypotensive and digestive stimulant. Coriander is also used in detox diet. This beneficial plant therefore is worthy of serious consideration for further investigation and clinical trials.

Coriander seed and leaves have many known health benefits and researchers are finding more every day. Here are 22 known benefits:

1. Protects against the Salmonella bacteria

2. Reportedly works as a natural chelation treatment
(Cilantro has been found to chelate (remove) heavy metals like mercury, aluminum, and lead from the body. In fact, it is believed to cross the blood-brain barrier and actually remove said metals from the brain.)

3. Aids in digestion and helps settle the stomach and prevent flatulence

4. Is an anti-inflammatory that may alleviate symptoms of arthritis

5. Protects against urinary tract infections

6. Prevents nausea

7. Relieves intestinal gas

8. Lowers blood sugar

9. Lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and raises good cholesteraol (HDL)

10. A good source of dietary fiber

11. A good source of iron

12. A good source of magnesium

13. Rich in phytonutrients and flavonoids

14. It is also beneficial for women especially those suffering from a heavy menstrual flow. Six grams of coriander seeds should be boiled in 500 ml water and after adding sugar, it can be consumed while warm.

15. For those with arthritis problems, coriander has many anti-inflammatory properties. Boil ground coriander seeds with water and drink the concoction.

16. Coriander is known to lower blood sugar by stimulating the secretion of insulin. It has also been called as an 'anti-diabetic' plant. It helps the heart by lowering bad cholesterol and raising good cholesterol.

17. This herb is also great for the skin. Its juice mixed with turmeric powder can help treat pimples and blackheads.

18. Adding one or two teaspoons of coriander juice to fresh buttermilk is ideal for treating nausea and dysentery. Dry coriander treats diarrhoea.

19. Coriander is a quick-acting anti-histamine and has affinity with the skin, especially the skin of the adrenal glands.

20. Coriander is  cooling It can be used internally to ward off allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, hives, swelling and intense itching.Externally, it can be applied as a paste to affected areas.

21. Sipping tea of coriander seeds can help revive the person after shock or calm an acidic stomach.

22. Coriander is also used in detox diet.

Plant your coriander seeds in pots and soon you’ll see your own homegrown cilantro, delicious to use daily for healthy digestion.  Coriander seed tea is useful in bacterial bladder infection.