What are the Health Benefits of Coriander?

Coriander belongs to the apiaceous family, popularly known as the carrot family. This family comprises many other notable and good-for-health plants like celery, parsley, cumin, parsnip and of course carrot. Unlike the members of its family, coriander can be grown round the year and this makes the herb widely used all over the world. Its aroma and unique taste has led coriander to attain an important position in culinary usage. And considering the loads of medicinal properties offered by this herb, you would agree that coriander is nothing short of a wonder food. So, let’s look into some of the health benefits of coriander.

Although all parts of this plant are edible, coriander leaves and coriander seeds are used most prominently. The leaves, also known as cilantro, and the seeds have no resemblance to each other in flavor or taste but both pack in abundant health benefits. Citrus taste, strong smell and intense flavor have made coriander leaves a must in garnishing curries and salads.

Coriander leaves contain rich amounts of:

· Vitamins-A, C, and K

· Thiamin

· Riboflavin

· Folic acid

· Calcium

· Iron

· Magnesium and potassium

· small quantities of niacin, Vitamin-B6, phosphorous and zinc.

Coriander fruits contain:

· Volatile oil,

· Fatty acids,

· The aromatic coriandrol

· Other mineral substances

Coriander Leaves Health Benefits:

Coriander leaves and coriander seeds provide many important health benefits. These are:

1. Coriander lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases the levels of good cholesterol (HDL).

2. A very good food for digestive system. Promotes liver functions and bowel movements.

3. Coriander is good for diabetes patients. It can stimulate the insulin secretion and lower the blood sugar levels.

4. Phytonutrients in coriander such as elemol, camphor, borneol, carvone, quercetin, keampferol and epigenin, give protection from free radical damage.

6. The fat soluble vitamin and antioxidant- Vitamin A, protects from lung and cavity cancers.

7. Coriander contains anti-inflammatory properties. This is why it is good against inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.

8. Coriander's anti-septic properties help to cure mouth ulcer.

9. Another important health benefit of coriander is that it is good for the eyes. Antioxidants in coriander prevent eye diseases and problems. It’s a good remedy in the treatment of conjunctivitis.

10. It’s a very good herb to promote the nervous system. It can stimulate the memory.

13. Coriander also contains fungicide and anthelmintic properties.

14. Anti-bacterial compound in coriander fights against Salmonella (a rod-shaped Gram-negative enterobacteria; cause typhoid fever and food poisoning) and protects from food borne diseases.

15. Natural compounds in coriander leaves remove toxic heavy metals from the body without any side effects. Accumulation of heavy metals can cause many dangerous health problems including memory loss and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Those are the best 15 health benefits of coriander. Fresh and deep green coriander or cilantro leaves provide maximum health benefits. Soft and yellow leaves should be avoided.

Sources:

foodtofitness.com

naturaltherapypages.co.uk

expertscolumn.com

Other links:

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Cabbage is a Dieters Friend