Unsung hero of the spice and herb world, coriander seeds are sometimes overshadowed by their leafy sibling, cilantro. The health benefits and delicious scent of these little seeds are surprisingly diverse. Coriander seeds have left an indelible impact on a broad range of cuisines throughout the world because to their long history of use in cooking and medicine. In this post, we’ll learn more about coriander seeds, including its medicinal properties, culinary uses, and interesting backstory.
Contents
Historical Significance
The plant species Coriandrum sativum, which includes coriander, is native to warm climates in Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. It has a lengthy background that spans several centuries. Coriander was used both as a culinary seasoning and in the mummification process by ancient Egyptians. The ancient Greeks and Romans also included the spice into their cooking for a variety of uses. Coriander seeds, valued for their fragrance and flavor, have been an integral part of Indian, Chinese, and Thai culinary traditions for centuries. These seeds feature prominently in Indian spice blends like gram masala and curry powder, as well as Thai green and red curries.
The seed of the coriander plant has been used medicinally for centuries. The seeds are used to treat intestinal parasites in traditional Chinese medicine. Researchers have shown that it effectively kills larvae (larvicidal), bacteria, and fungus (fungicidal).
Anorexia, dyspepsia, flatulence, griping pain, vomiting, sub-acid gastritis, and diarrhoea, as well as anorexia and indigestion, are all common gastrointestinal problems for which it is prescribed. The digestive stimulation and ant bilious impact of coriander seeds are valued for their usage in traditional medicine (Usmanghani et al., 1997). The cholinergic stimulation of stomach acid production by coriander has been demonstrated.
In addition to its culinary uses, coriander seed has medicinal use as an anti-endemic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, emmenagogue, antihypertensive, and myorelaxant. Furanocoumarins, which are found in it, have been linked to allergic responses, hence its usage has been recommended with caution (Brinker, 1998).
The isolated spiral strips and tubular segments of the rabbit central ear artery contract less strongly in response to electrical stimulation when coriander seeds are present. In rats, eating coriander seeds led to lower blood pressure. Coriander seeds may shield tissues from damage by blocking the production of free radicals, according to a 1986 research (Medhin et al.). Coriander seed provided protection from 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced tumours of the colon and intestine in male rats, according to a separate research (Chithra & Leelamma, 2000).
The digestive enzymes lipase, chymotrypsin, and amylase were “favorably enhanced” by the addition of coriander to a spice blend administered to female rats for 8 weeks. Furthermore, bile flow and bile acid secretion were noticeably enhanced after being fed the food containing the spice combination (Platel et al., 2002). The primary component of coriander seed oil, linalool, had no significant effects on ascorbate/Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation of rat liver microtomes, according to a series of experiments on spice principles as antioxidants (Reddy & Lokesh, 1992). Coriander seed oil’s effects on lipid metabolism were studied by Weber and colleagues (Weber et al., 2003). There was a considerable drop in the quantity of arachidonic acid in the cellular lipids of rats when they were fed “coriander seed oil” containing large quantities of a positional isomer of oleic acid (i.e., petroselinic (cis-6-octadecenoic) acid) for 10 weeks.
Coriander has been shown to be effective as an antidiabetic, a hypolipidemic, and an antioxidant in a variety of investigations. Chithra and Leelamma (1999) studied the effects of a high-fat diet including coriander seed powder on the lipid metabolism of rats for 75 days. Total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, liver, and heart all dropped dramatically. Serum levels of very low and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol fell, whereas HDL cholesterol rose. Another study followed female rats fed a high-fat diet supplemented with 10% coriander seed powder for 90 days, measuring the effects on lipid peroxide levels and antioxidant enzyme activity. Malondialdehyde, hydro peroxides, and conjugated dienes levels in the liver and heart were significantly reduced after feeding a meal containing coriander seed powder. Serum, liver, and heart free fatty acid levels were all considerably reduced in treated mice. The liver and heart of the treated rats showed a considerable rise in the levels of antioxidant-related enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and glutathione reeducates.
Culinary Uses
Spice Blends:
Coriander seeds are a staple in a wide variety of seasoning blends. Their inclusion improves the pairings by imparting a warm, somewhat citrus taste. Indian cuisine relies heavily on them for their aromatic and flavorful properties.
Pickling:
Pickled or preserved vegetables like cucumbers and carrots taste better with the addition of coriander seeds. They provide the brine that extra kick that makes the pickles taste even better.
Baking:
Bread, cake, and biscuits all benefit from the use of coriander seeds. These seeds can be used to enhance the flavour and aroma of both sweet and savoury baked goods.
Marinades:
Spice blends for marinating meat, poultry, and fish frequently include ground coriander seeds. The meat’s taste will be amplified and its texture improved thanks to this.
Health Benefits
There are several advantages of using coriander seeds in your diet.
Boosts immunity
Antioxidant components in coriander protect cells from free radical damage and reduce inflammation. Evidence from the laboratory suggests that compounds like terpinene and quercetin may have anticancer, immune-enhancing, and neuroprotective properties. The extract of coriander seeds has been shown to inhibit the development of cancer cells in the lung, the prostate, and the breast.
Digestive Aid:
Coriander seeds are famous for their ability to aid digestion. They work well to alleviate bloating, gas, and indigestion. If you have an upset stomach, try drinking some coriander seed tea.
Coriander seed tea is quite effective in soothing upset stomachs. Coriander extract is used to stimulate hunger in traditional Iranian medicine.
Cholesterol Control:
Studies on the effects of coriander seeds on LDL (bad) cholesterol have been encouraging. Potentially lowering the risk of heart issues as a result of this.
Blood Sugar Regulation:
Chemicals in coriander seeds have been shown to lower blood sugar, which may have significant benefits for those with diabetes.
Blood sugar levels are a key risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, but coriander seeds and oil may help reduce them. Coriander’s enzyme activities aid in the removal of sugar from the blood, hence people with low blood sugar or using diabetic medication should avoid it.
Anti-Inflammatory:
Coriander seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that make them effective against inflammatory diseases including arthritis and rheumatism.
Rich in Antioxidants:
These seeds are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress and reduce the likelihood of developing cancer or cardiovascular disease.
Improved Skin Health:
Coriander seeds are useful for treating common skin issues including acne and dry skin.
Improves heart health
High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be mitigated by coriander. Since coriander is a diuretic, it can be used to get rid of extra salt and water weight, both of which can contribute to hypertension. There is some evidence that eating coriander can help lower cholesterol. Sodium consumption can be lowered by consuming spicy plants like coriander.
Protects brain health
Coriander’s anti-inflammatory characteristics offer protection against the inflammation linked to Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Coriander extract has been shown to boost memory and reduce anxiety in laboratory trials. Reduced oxidative stress on neurons results in increased longevity and enhanced memory, because to coriander’s antioxidative, cholesterol-lowering, and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers are exploring the memory and nervous system effects of these experiments on Alzheimer’s sufferers.
Benefits of Coriander for hair
Use these simple do-it-yourself strategies to get the advantages of coriander for healthier, stronger, and better-nourished hair.
1. Coriander leaves paste
If you’re experiencing hair loss, thinning, or any other issues, try this recipe.
a) Combine half a cup of water and a few crushed fresh coriander leaves. Make a paste using the ingredients and apply it uniformly to your scalp.
b. The mixture should be left in the hair for 15 minutes before being washed out. This paste is mild enough to use twice weekly.
2. Coriander juice
To prepare coriander juice,
a) finely cut some fresh coriander leaves and add them to a blender with some water and sugar.
b) Take the juice thrice to four times a week in the late afternoon.
3. Coriander seeds oil
a) In a bowl, combine 100 ml of olive or coconut oil with 2 tsp of crushed coriander seeds.
b) After 2 weeks, use your fingertips to massage the infused oil into your scalp. Shampoo first thing in the morning or wait a few hours.
Incorporating Coriander Seeds into Your Diet
It’s simple and pleasurable to include coriander seeds into your cooking. The full flavour of the seeds may be released by quickly toasting them and then grinding them into a powder in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Add this powder to marinades, sauces, and rubs, or use it as a finishing powder.
Another tasty method to get the spice’s advantages is through coriander seed tea. A calming and aromatic herbal infusion may be made by steeping a teaspoon of crushed coriander seeds in boiling water.
Conclusion
The coriander seeds in your spice cabinet are more than just tiny specks; they’re treasures of flavor and health. These seeds have been around for a long time and may be used in many different ways in the kitchen. Coriander seeds add flavor and health benefits to everything from Indian curries to homemade pickles. Don’t forget to add the wonderful coriander seed to your spice rack the next time you shop for seasonings.
FAQs
What is the benefit of coriander seed?
Coriander leaves and seeds are full of vitamin K, which plays an important role in helping your blood clot. Vitamin K also helps your bones repair themselves, helping prevent problems like osteoporosis. Additionally, evidence points to vitamin K helping lower your risk of heart disease.
How does coriander help thyroid?
High levels of total cholesterol (TC) could be one of the causes of thyroid. Now, coriander seeds can help in controlling cholesterol, which in turn, will help keep thyroid hormones at bay.
Is coriander seeds heat or cold for body?
The Power Of Coriander Seeds And Their Cooling Effects
Studies have shown that coriander seeds can help reduce body temperature, as well as reduce inflammation and improve digestion. The cooling effect of coriander seeds has also been known to help reduce stress, improve mood, and even help with insomnia.
Can we drink coriander water daily?
Drinking coriander water in the morning can help improve digestion throughout the day, and boost metabolism. Both these properties can help you with your weight loss process. The water can also help you detox your system and start fresh.
Is coriander water good for hormones?
The major cause of thyroid is an increase in the level of total cholesterol (TC). Now, with the help of coriander seeds, you can control your cholesterol, which in turn, will help keep thyroid hormones at bay.
