7 Health Benefits of Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

November 19, 2023 Agric4Profits

Cilantro scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum also called coriander or Chinese parsley is a widely used plant that at first looks resembles flat-leaf parsley yet instantly transports you to the Mediterranean, Mexico, Asia, and India when you first smell it. Without the use of sea salt or other seasonings, it adds a fresh flavor boost.

This adaptable herb can be found in guacamole, salsa, curries, noodle meals, and Argentinian chimichurri sauces. In addition to cilantro’s countless culinary uses, many people are surprised to learn that it also has numerous documented medicinal advantages for the body.

Its adaptability contributes to one of its distinctive qualities. Although it is leafy and green, it gives meals a light, almost lemony flavor. After it blooms, it makes seeds and the flavor of the leaves gets stronger.

Additionally, the coriander seeds it produces have their own health advantages. Coriander, while still having a citrus flavor, has a warm, almost nutty flavor that makes it the ideal addition to pickles, sausages, and pieces of bread. It also makes it one of the main ingredients in garam masala.

Although cilantro has many advantages, people have quite different opinions about it. While some people adore its crisp flavor, others think that it has a soapy aftertaste that they don’t care for.

Its abundance in micronutrients, antioxidants, and other medicinal substances, regardless of which end of the spectrum you fall on, cannot be disputed. These substances can have a significant impact on general health.

What effects does cilantro have on your body, then? The potential health advantages and negative effects of cilantro will be examined in this article, along with several simple methods for including it in your diet on a regular basis.

Cilantro is made up of tiny leaves that are affixed to long, lean green stems. The size of the leaves varies, with the base leaves being larger and the upper stem leaves being smaller and more fragile.

The dark green leaves typically have feathery, serrated edges, smooth and crisp texture, and are large, flat, and deeply lobed. Along with the leaves, the pale green stems also have a crisp, succulent texture and are tasty.

Cilantro tastes earthy, herbaceous, and bright, grassy, with a sweet, vegetal, and pungent scent. Some people find cilantro to have an acrid and disagreeable soapy taste, and the leaves frequently have peppery, acidic, and citrus-like undertones.

7 Health Benefits of Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

1. Removes Heavy Metal From The Human Body

Our tissues may accumulate arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, lead, and mercury over time. Heart problems, hormonal abnormalities, neurological issues, infertility, and a host of other disorders can result from this.

It has been demonstrated that cilantro, also known scientifically as “Coriandrum sativum,” binds these harmful metals together, releasing them from tissue and promoting their removal from the body.

Coriandrum sativum greatly reduced lead-induced oxidative stress in an animal model, and it actually sped up the body’s clearance of heavy metals, according to another study.

The herb was employed in this trial to assist in removing tenacious heavy metal deposits that persisted in patients long after the initial illness symptoms had subsided.

2. Fights or Prevent Oxidative Stress

Numerous degenerative disorders, including some forms of cancer, heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and many others are associated with oxidative stress.

Due in part to the flavonoid quercetin, this herb has potent antioxidant qualities that can help the body fend off free radical damage. Due to its strong antioxidant content, a recent in vitro study discovered that Coriandrum sativum actually defends against oxidative stress.

3. Reduces Anxiety

The natural sedative qualities of this herb can aid in calming the nerves and enhancing sleep quality. High concentrations of cilantro extract showed the same anti-anxiety effects as the well-known prescription drug valium, according to a recent animal model published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology (diazepam).

Confusion, hallucinations, risk-taking behavior, anger, violence, memory issues, and muscle weakness are just a few of the negative effects of valium that are frequently reported. This herb’s extract may be able to reduce anxiety and enhance your sleep without any of these potentially harmful side effects.

4. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

In trials on animals, cilantro’s leaves and stems were found to help reduce blood sugar levels. According to a study in the Journal of Food Sciences, the plant supports good liver function and maintains blood sugar balance when diabetes has been identified.

The findings, according to researchers, support Coriandrum Sativum’s use as a diabetes treatment. To reduce blood sugar and enhance general health, chop the leaves and stems and add them to salads, salsas, and smoothies.

5. Supports Heart Health

According to some research, this herb may improve heart health by lowering a number of heart disease risk factors. In fact, the outcomes of one animal study showed that cilantro lowers triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the body.

Another study indicated that the polyphenols and natural cardioprotective elements present in the plant can aid in preventing oxidative damage, which is especially linked to heart disease and was published in Food and Chemical Toxicology.

6. Prevents Urinary Tract Infections

The development of germs, sexual activity, genetics, or diabetes is just a few of the numerous potential causes of urinary tract infections. The antibacterial properties of cilantro may contribute to maintaining a healthy urinary tract free of harmful germs in an alkaline environment. Coriander seeds can also be used to treat UTI symptoms if they do arise.

Just put 1.5 tablespoons of dried coriander seeds in two cups of water and let them soak overnight. Add to your morning smoothie, strain, and then consume. It’s said to aid in easing the discomfort and anguish brought on by the UTI and aid in hastening your recovery.

7. Soothes Skin Irritation

Hives, sunburns, and poison ivy are just a few of the skin irritations that cilantro is used to treat both internally and topically. Its natural antihistamines aid in reducing the immune system’s allergic reaction. To treat sunburns, dry skin, poison ivy, and hives brought on by an allergic reaction, coconut oil and fresh cilantro can be combined.

Try mixing cilantro with water rather than coconut oil, then straining to receive all the benefits. While drinking the remaining juice, apply it to your skin. This two-pronged strategy is especially beneficial when looking for relief from an allergic reaction.