Cilantro, or coriander, is a popular herb that is used in both cooking and folk medicine. Cilantro is native to the Mediterranean and Southwest Asia, but today it is grown all over the world. Cilantro greens and its seeds have a bright aroma and flavor, as well as many useful properties that make it a valuable addition to the diet. Let’s take a closer look at what cilantro is useful and how it affects health.
Useful composition — a rich source of vitamins and minerals
Cilantro contains many vitamins and minerals, such as:
- Vitamin C — a powerful antioxidant that supports immunity.
- Vitamin K — important for bone health and blood clotting.
- B vitamins — help normalize metabolism and support the nervous system.
- Potassium, magnesium and calcium are key elements for the health of the cardiovascular, muscle and bone health.
Cilantro contains iron, which helps fight anemia, and antioxidants that protect cells from aging.
Benefits of cilantro (oregano) for the body
Scientists highlight a long list of benefits that our body gets from regular consumption of cilantro:
- Improved digestion. Cilantro has traditionally been used to treat digestive problems. It stimulates the production of gastric juice, which helps improve digestion. Cilantro also helps reduce abdominal bloating, relieve stomach cramps and discomfort, and improve appetite. Due to its antibacterial properties, cilantro may help reduce the risk of intestinal infections.
- Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Cilantro has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it effective in fighting infections and inflammation in the body. Cilantro essential oils inhibit the growth of pathogens, including certain types of bacteria and fungi.
- Detoxification of the body. Cilantro is known for its ability to detoxify the body, including heavy metals such as mercury, lead and cadmium. This makes it an important food for those who are concerned about body cleanliness. The chelating compounds found in cilantro bind toxic substances and aid in their excretion.
- Blood sugar control. Some studies have shown that cilantro extract can lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin production. This makes cilantro beneficial for people with diabetes or a predisposition to the disease.
- Cardiovascular support. Due to its high potassium and antioxidant content, cilantro helps normalize blood pressure and lower levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL). This reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure and atherosclerosis.
- Skin benefits. Cilantro helps in maintaining healthy skin due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Regular consumption of cilantro can reduce inflammation such as acne and dermatitis. It will slow down the aging process of the skin, improve the complexion and speed up the healing of lesions. Cilantro is often used in home beauty products — for example, in masks and lotions to cleanse and moisturize the skin.
- Nervous System Support. The B vitamins and magnesium content in cilantro helps improve nervous system function. It helps reduce stress levels, improves sleep and can be used as a natural remedy to prevent depression and anxiety disorders.
Here are some interesting facts about cilantro that highlight the amazing benefits:
- Two names in one plant. Cilantro is the name of the greens of the plant Coriandrum sativum, and its seeds are called coriander. A unique plant that utilizes all parts: leaves, seeds, and even roots.
- Conflicting flavor. Some people have a strong aversion to cilantro because of a genetic trait. For them, it smells and tastes like soap, thanks to a chemical compound — aldehydes, which are also found in soap.
- Ancient origins. Cilantro is one of the oldest cultivated plants. Archaeologists have found its seeds in the tombs of ancient Egyptians, including Tutankhamun’s tomb.
- It is popular all over the world. Cilantro is widely used in the cuisines of different countries. Mexican cuisine: salsas and guacamole. Mediterranean cuisine: marinades and sauces. Indian cuisine: side dishes, chutneys and curries. Thai cuisine: soups and salads.
- The smell of coriander is a sign of freshness. If you grind the leaves of fresh cilantro, a spicy, herbal odor appears. If it is faint, the herbs are no longer fresh.
- Cilantro in medicine. In traditional medicine, cilantro is used to treat insomnia, calm the nervous system and relieve symptoms of gastric disorders.
- Coriander in perfumery. Coriander seeds are a popular ingredient in perfumery due to their warm, spicy flavor.
- Root use. Asian cuisine even uses cilantro roots — to make pastes and sauces such as traditional Thai curries.
- Cilantro as a pesticide. Cilantro oil is effectively used in agriculture as a natural insect pest control agent.
- Insensitivity in children. Children often have a negative attitude toward cilantro, but as they get older, their taste buds change and the flavor becomes more palatable.
How to use cilantro?
Cilantro can be added to a variety of dishes including:
- Salads and soups.
- Sauces (e.g., salsa, pesto).
- Marinades and seasonings for meat and fish.
Its seeds (coriander) are widely used as a spice that gives dishes a warm, slightly lemony flavor. The seeds can even be used to simply externally garnish dishes, such as meat.
Cautions from nutritionists
Despite its many benefits, cilantro can cause harm if one is careless. Cilantro can cause allergic reactions in some people. Also, eating it in large quantities can lower blood pressure or blood sugar levels, so people with hypotension and diabetes should consume it with caution.
Cilantro is a flavorful spice and a real treasure trove of nutrients. Its regular use can improve digestion, support the cardiovascular system, strengthen the immune system and even slow down the aging process. However, as with any product, it is important to observe moderation and take into account the individual characteristics of the body.
To learn about the benefits of other products, go to the Benefits food page.