Many parts of the coriander plant are used for medicinal or culinary purposes.
For example, the leaves and/or seeds may be ground or used in whole form in cooking.
In some parts of the world, coriander is referred to as cilantro.
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Typically, coriander seeds are used for their potential health benefits.
This article discusses the uses of coriander and the evidence behind them.
It also covers side effects, precautions, interactions, and how much coriander to use.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Research suggests that linalool may be antimicrobial, anticancer,anxiolytic(anxiety-reducing), and an antioxidant.
Substantial research on coriander is lacking to prove these effects will occur in humans.
Most studies have been performed on animals (in vivo) or in lab tweaks (in vitro).
Regardless, interest in coriander for its potential health benefits remains.
An overview of some of the research follows.
Antioxidant Properties
Coriander contains several antioxidants.
Antioxidants help fight free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells in the body.
Heart Health
Coriander leaves have been found to containflavonoids, essential phytochemicals that act as antioxidants.
More research is needed in this area.
Anxiolytic
Coriander is widely used in traditional medicine foranxiety.Preliminary research has shown coriander to have antianxiety effects.
It may work by modulating negative emotions that arise from the brain.
Linalool was thought to be the main component responsible for these effects.
Once again, though, additional studies should be conducted before coriander can be recommended to treat sun-damaged skin.
In fact, the FDA has recognized coriander as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS).
Many studies have reported few to no side effects or adverse events associated with using coriander.
A few side effects have been reported for coriander.
Although rare, it is possible to be allergic to coriander.
Anyone with a known allergy or allergy to other plants of theApiaceaefamily should avoid using coriander.
There isn’t enough scientific evidence on coriander to know whether it is safe for people who arepregnantorbreastfeeding.
Avoid using coriander in large amounts, such as in a supplement, if pregnant or breastfeeding.
While foods containing coriander generally are safe, coriander supplements' effects on young children are unknown.
For this reason, it’s best to avoid giving coriander supplements to young children.
Additional precautions may exist, but research is limited on coriander.
Dosage: How Much Coriander Should I Consume?
Coriander has not been approved as a treatment for any medical condition.
More reliable data are needed.
Adding Coriander Into Your Diet
Various parts of the coriander plant may be used to season food.
Coriander leaves and seeds are typically used, and these are typically ground or whole for cooking.
Coriander is also sometimes used as a food preservative.
Coriander is used in both sweet and savory recipes.
Besides adding coriander to cooked foods, some people enjoy sprinkling it on soups, salads, or smoothies.
Interactions
Coriander may interact with certain medications, supplements, and other herbs.
Likewise, coriander may need to be avoided by anyone taking medications to lower blood pressure.
This is because coriander may have an additive effect, causing a too-low blood pressure.
It’s important to note that these and other potential coriander interactions are not well-documented.
Reports of official interactions are limited.
They should also be kept out of direct sunlight.
Fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) should be stored in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
Some people recommend loosely covering coriander leaves with a plastic bag or storing them in an air-tight container.
Discard coriander once its expiration date passes or it loses freshness.
you could also find ground coriander and coriander seeds online.
Ground coriander is typically sold in small bottles (similar to other spices).
However, it can also be found in larger bags for those who use it regularly.
Coriander seeds are also sold this way.
Coriander supplements can be purchased online or in some specialty stores.
They are mostly available in capsule form, but extracts and powders are also available.
Coriander is naturally vegan andgluten-free.
Some products are also organic.
A seal from these or other agencies can provide peace of mind.
Some of these similar herbs and spices may also provide similar health benefits.
For the most part, coriander is considered safe, and using it comes with few risks.
But it may not be right for everyone.
Talk with a healthcare provider if you’re considering using coriander as a dietary supplement.
To some, coriander tastes citrusy and fresh, while others find the flavor nutty and earthy.
There are two types ofCoriandrum sativum(C. sativum):C. sativum vulgareandC.
Both varieties of the herb are similar but have different phenolic compound profiles.
sativum microcarpumhas a higher essential oil yield thanC.
Coriander and cilantro both come from the coriander plant.
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