Coriander: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, and More

With numerous culinary uses, this herb is globally utilised for various purposes. From adding flavour to dishes, it is also incorporated into Ayurvedic medicines for several diseases. Loaded with huge values and benefits, the leaves, roots, stems, and seeds have their own distinct and versatile uses. We, Indians, have been using this herb for many years, commonly in chutneys and garnishing dishes. Well, any guesses with the clue?

If you are still not sure, then this refreshing plant is none other than Coriander. 

Apart from flavouring benefits, Coriander is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, etc., which add to healthy living. This blog will delve into the nutritional profile, health benefits, uses, side effects, and much more. 

Synonyms of Coriander

A 7000-year-old herb, coriander, comes from the Greek word “koros”, meaning a “stinking bug”. The ancient Egyptians called it “spice of happiness,” while the Romans and Greeks used it for both medicinal and cooking purposes. Also, do you know, coriander leaves are named separately from the seeds, i.e., Cilantro and Coriander seeds respectively. Some of the other names coriander is called:

Differences between coriander leaves and seeds

While seeds and leaves are part of one coriander plant, they can be differentiated on some basis. The key differences are as follows:

Nutritional Profile

Here are the nutrients, vitamins, and other components of Coriander.

Coriander Benefits

With an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, coriander has magical health benefits for the human body. Loaded with Vitamin K, it becomes highly beneficial in preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of heart disease. Not only this, the leaves, stem, and seeds have several other health benefits, such as:

1. Promotes Healthy Vision

From ages, we have heard that our grandmothers promoted coriander to improve eyesight. Well, grandmothers were right. 

2. Controls Blood Sugar

Coriander seeds have been proven to control blood sugar levels, especially among diabetic patients.

The trials and research show that people who regularly consume coriander can release the enzymes efficiently, which further process the blood sugar. 

3. Reduces Inflammation

With the presence of numerous antioxidants, coriander helps amazingly to reduce inflammation. Swelling inside the body is related to several harmful conditions, from arthritis  to heart disease.

 In several studies, coriander is seen to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cancer cells in the body. 

4. Improves Heart Health

Heart problems that might lead to life-threatening conditions, like high cholesterol or high blood pressure, can be managed with coriander, followed by Ayurvedic treatment. 

Not solely coriander, but yes, it is one of the ingredients that helps to maintain heart health. It also supports kidney functioning, which helps the body to flush out harmful toxins with excess sodium from the body in the form of urine. 

5. Best remedy for Stomach Problems

Body health is related to your gut, and coriander is a solution to many gut problems.

This herb has some distinct properties that help to combat stomach-related issues like indigestion and ulcers. The stomach lining is protected from strong acids with the highly beneficial properties of coriander. 

6.Boosts Skin Health

Skin is one of the important organs that keeps your confidence intact. Boosting skin health and keeping it glowing, here comes an ingredient, coriander leaves.

The Vitamins in this plant, especially the leaves, help to repair the skin cells and make it brighter. It fights acne, pimples, and oily skin that most of us suffer from every day. 

Coriander Uses

This versatile herb has a wide range of uses, in cooking and in medicine. The leaves, seeds, stem, and roots have distinct applications and properties; hence, they are used similarly. Some of the common uses are explained as follows:

1. Culinary Utilization 

Coriander Leaves

• Flavour: Very commonly used, the leaves of coriander add a distinct flavour to all dishes. Countries like India, Mexico, and other parts of the world use coriander.
  
• Toppings: Including the refreshing flavour of coriander, these bright green leaves are also used as toppings to garnish cuisines. Chefs, homemakers, or even our mothers add coriander leaves to soups, salads, curries, etc. to enhance the presentation and taste. 

Dried Coriander Seeds

• As Spice:  Coriander seeds are dried and then grinded with other spices to make garam masala. This spice is used in every Indian home to make vegetables and curries. These tiny seeds have a warm and sharp taste.  
• Roasted Seeds: Coriander seeds are often roasted and used in tempering, pickles, and baking. 

2. Medicinal uses

As discussed above, coriander is highly beneficial for the human body due to the presence of certain nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. It is also used to prepare certain Ayurvedic medicines. Moreover, it is also used in a few home remedies to improve digestion and manage conditions like gas or bloating. 

3. Skin Care Uses

If you are still unsure or have not used any cosmetic product containing coriander, then here it is. Larger quantities of coriander extract are used in manufacturing certain products that have certain benefits, such as:

• Anti-aging agents
• Protect skin from free radicals
• Controls dandruff
• Scalp irritation
• Promote hair growth, etc. 

4. Stress Relief & Aromatherapy 

The oil extracted from coriander has a soothing aroma that reduces anxiety and nervousness, while also cooling the nervous system. Also, if sleeplessness is your biggest issue, then try coriander aromatherapy and see the amazing results. The oil is also used for massage and reduces physical tension, and relaxes muscles. 

Well, if you want to improve your overall mental health and physical health too, try coriander oil in a diffuser, roll-on blend, or simply put 1-2 drops on a tissue and inhale.

Side Effects

If consumed in culinary amounts, then this herb is generally considered safe. But, like every action has a reaction, this herb also shows some side effects if consumed in large quantities in the form of extract or oil. 

Here are some of the detailed side effects of coriander:

1. Allergic Reaction 

If you face allergies to plants like celery, fennel, or parsley, you might face reactions against coriander. The symptoms include skin rashes, itching, swelling, sneezing, etc.

2. Photosensitivity

Photosensitivity is a term used when one gets a skin reaction while being exposed to sunlight. Some reports and research suggest that consuming coriander in large quantities or concentrated doses can increase sensitivity to sunlight. 

3. Gastric Issues

Consuming coriander in large quantities, especially in concentrated or extracted form, can increase gut sensitivity. You might experience symptoms like:- 

• Stomach Cramps

• Nausea

• Low Appetite

• Diarrhea 

Note: This condition is likely to be experienced when coriander is consumed in medicinal form and not in meals. 

4. Low Blood Sugar

The properties of coriander are observed to help in lowering the blood sugar levels. It is good for a diabetic person, but it becomes risky for an individual who is already on diabetic medicine. This can lead to sweating, confusion, shakiness, or a condition called hypoglycemia. 

5. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

The child and mother face no harm if coriander is consumed in moderate amounts. But larger doses like capsules, oils, or extracts are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding females. This is so because it might cause serious trouble by causing certain changes in the body. 

Conclusion

While coriander is one of the common and flavouring food items used in daily Indian cuisines, moderation during consumption is crucial. It adds amazing health benefits, but if prescribed by an Ayurvedic doctor, then sticking to the recommended doses is highly important. Moreover, if you are consuming (capsules, extract, or oil supplements) without any prescription and do not take care of the proportions, a list of health conditions is waiting for you. Be alert! Be healthy! and add it to daily cooking, Carefree.