Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Apiaceae
• Common Names: Coriander, Cilantro, Chinese Parsley
• Parts Used: Leaves (cilantro), seeds (coriander)

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Description

Coriandrum sativum is an aromatic annual herb widely cultivated for its leaves and seeds, both of which have culinary and medicinal applications. The seeds have a warm, citrusy, and slightly spicy flavor, while the leaves offer a bright, fresh taste. Traditionally, coriander has been used to support digestion, detoxification, and inflammation reduction.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for digestion and detoxification.
• Employed in ancient Egypt and Greece as a spice and medicine.
• Traditionally used to relieve bloating, nausea, and support blood sugar balance.

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Constituents

• Essential oils (linalool, geraniol, camphor)
• Flavonoids
• Terpenes
• Coumarins
• Phenolic compounds

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Actions

• Digestive aid
• Carminative (reduces bloating and gas)
• Antimicrobial
• Antioxidant
• Detoxifying
• Anti-inflammatory

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Coriander seeds are commonly used to ease bloating, gas, and indigestion while supporting overall gut health.

2. Detoxification and Heavy Metal Chelation:
Studies suggest that coriander may help remove heavy metals like lead and mercury from the body.

3. Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Regulation:
Coriander has been traditionally used to support balanced blood sugar levels and may aid in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Due to its antioxidant properties, coriander is used to reduce inflammation and may relieve joint pain and headaches.

5. Antimicrobial and Immune Support:
The essential oils in coriander exhibit antimicrobial effects that may help fight infections and improve overall immunity.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of crushed coriander seeds per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Powdered Seeds:

• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp mixed with warm water before meals.

Culinary Use:

• Fresh leaves (cilantro) and dried seeds (coriander) can be added to food to enhance flavor and digestion.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Safe in culinary amounts; medicinal doses should be used with caution.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have a sensitivity to cilantro.
• Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure, so caution is advised for individuals taking hypotensive medications.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Supports digestion, clears heat, and moves stagnant energy.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Pitta and Vata, but may increase Kapha in excess.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and cumin.
• For Detoxification: Combine with chlorella and dandelion.
• For Inflammation: Combine with turmeric and ginger.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves are best picked fresh; seeds are collected once they turn brown and dry.
• Drying: Air dry seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
• Storage: Keep dried seeds in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Coriandrum sativum’s benefits for digestion, detoxification, and inflammation reduction, reinforcing its traditional uses.

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Coriander remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern medicine, known for its digestive, detoxifying, and antimicrobial properties.