Coriander

Alternative names: Coriandrum Sativum, Cilantro, Chinese Parsley, Persil Arabe, Kustumburi

Umbelliferous aromatic plant, often used as a culinary spice and food ingredient, Coriander are indigenous to southern Europe. In Peru, Coriander is found in almost all dishes, while the Chinese believe that the seeds can confer immortality. An interesting study, conducted by Douglas Schauer of Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana, US shows the Coriander leaves can purify contaminated water, by removing heavy metals, especially lead and nickel. Keep in mind that just a handful of Coriander will be enough to filter 1 liter of contaminated or uncertain water.

Medicinal properties of Coriander recommend it for digestive conditions such as nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, intestinal gas and bowel spasm. The essential oil contained in the herb has many actions, being analgesic, antioxidant, antispasmodic, digestive and carminative. Known to increase the appetite, Coriander is also effective in anorexia and may lower blood sugar. Women also use Coriander during breastfeeding, to increase milk flow. Some people use it to treat bacterial and fungus infections, measles, worms, hemorrhoids. Containing valuable nutrients such as vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese and iron, Coriander is limiting the neuronal damage, contributing to the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Smokers and heavy drinkers can also benefit from its therapeutic properties, since Coriander helps repair damaged tissue in the lungs and liver.

Side effects observed in relation with Coriander are an increased sensitivity to sun exposure and some allergic reactions. The contact with the skin can cause inflammation and skin irritation.

Other uses of Coriander in manufacturing are:  as a fragrance in soaps and cosmetics and as a flavoring agent in tobacco and medicine.