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 help in digestion and prevents flatulence when taken with hot water.
They also aid proper secretion of enzymes and digestive juices in the stomach
and prevent anorexia. Coriander leaves are a good source of roughage and fiber
too, thus relieving gastrointestinal problems.
Coriander –
Great source of Minerals and Vitamins
Coriander
is a great source of essential minerals and vitamins. Being rich in iron,
coriander helps people with lower hemoglobin level and cures anemia. Magnesium,
found in coriander, helps in proper functioning of nervous system and
strengthens the bones. Coriander juice is known to be a good source of
vitamins A, B and C.
Coriander
Benefits – Acts as Anti-oxidant
Coriander
contains anti-oxidants which promote a healthy body. Anti-oxidants are
molecules which constrain oxidation of other molecules in the body. They help
in prevention of heart related risks. Anti-oxidants have also been found
helpful in preventing neural diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
disease.
Coriander
has been found to work wonders for obese and diabetic people. It helps in
the reduction of fats and thus aids weight loss. When eaten fresh and
raw, coriander tremendously reduces sugar level. Raw chewing of coriander
leaves also help people suffering from bronchitis and asthma.
Benefits of
Coriander for Skin
Coriander
is effective in relieving dermatological conditions. When mixed with
turmeric powder or paste, coriander reduces acne and provides protection from
eczema, dryness and fungal infections. Researches have shown that
coriander leaves have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which
improves skin health and helps fight diseases like conjunctivitis.
Traditionally,
coriander leaves taken with water have been found effective in reducing
excessive heat from the body. They are also used for chelation treatment,
i.e. removal of heavy metals as mercury, aluminum and lead from the body.
Health
Benefits of Coriander Seeds
Dried and
roasted coriander seeds act as a spice. They are a great source of good
cholesterol (HDL) and reduce bad cholesterol from the body due to the
presence of linoleic acid, ascorbic acid, steric acid and palmitic acid.
Coriander seeds also support proper secretion of hormones and prevent
menstrual disorder. For best results, coriander seeds must be soaked
overnight in water and then consumed. The oil extracted from coriander
acts as an excellent antiseptic and thus it is very helpful in curing
mouth ulcers.
Other Health
Benefits of Coriander
o Coriander is effective in
fighting cold.
o Coriander is a strong provider of
Vitamin K and a good source of potassium and calcium.
o Coriander prevents involuntary
contraction of muscles.
o Coriander aids in proper
functioning of liver and helps prevent cancer and epileptic seizures.
(Source : http://foodtofitness.com/health-benefits-of-coriander/ )
