Coriander, the must-have ingredient in Indian cuisine, is scientifically termed Coriandrum sativum and belongs to the Apiaceae family, naturally being a powerhouse of nutrients. In India, it is commonly called “Dhaniya” in Hindi, “Malli” in Malayalam, “Kothimira” in Telugu and “Kothamalli” in Tamil.

The leaves of the coriander plant are an indispensable part of Indian cooking, be it in soups, salads, rasams, curries, and dals, owing to its vibrant green colour and the pleasant aroma of the sprigs. In addition, they confer immense health benefits including regulating blood sugar levels, protecting the liver and kidney and providing useful antioxidant properties.

The coriander plant is native to many countries across the world, being widely cultivated in Europe as well as parts of Africa and Asia. In recent times, there has been an emphasis on medicinal plants with potent nutritive values, for use in treating chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity. This has led to the naturalization and propagation of the coriander plant or cilantro in several western nations as well, including the warmer regions of North America and Australia.

The coriander is essentially a soft plant, at a height of 50 meters. The green stems bear broad leaves which develop into white or pale pink flowers. Upon developing, the fruits are shaped like globules with a brownish tinge. The dried fruits are known as coriander seeds and are a staple in Indian kitchens. While all parts of this therapeutic herb are edible, only the coriander leaves and seeds are utilized for innumerable food and medicinal purposes.

Coriander leaves display an impressive nutritional profile, being high in proteins and dietary fibers, with negligible cholesterol and saturated fats. Besides, they also abound in vital vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorous. Moreover, they are endowed with the goodness of powerful antioxidants like carotenoids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, which promote anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial functions.

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Here are some fantastic advantages to human health, that can be derived by regular consumption of the miraculous herb – the fragrant and delicious coriander leaves.

Coriander Leaves Health Benefits:

1. Promotes Healthy Vision:

Coriander leaves contain profuse amounts of vitamin A, besides vitamin C, vitamin E and the carotenoid class of antioxidants, which improve eyesight. They are also effective in healing conjunctivitis and macular and age-related degenerative disorders of vision. Also Checkout: Eat These Foods To Beat Vision Problems-Infographic

2. Manages Diabetes Symptoms:

The significant levels of dietary fibers and proteins in coriander leaves help in regulating blood sugar levels. Drinking a small glass of coriander juice with some lemon and honey infusions can control appetite, promote weight loss and alleviate diabetic symptoms.

3. Treats Liver Dysfunction:

The rich quantities of alkaloids and flavonoids in coriander leaves assist in curing liver ailments such as jaundice and bile disorders. Moreover, they also confer useful hepatoprotective traits, enhancing liver function and ensuring proper elimination of toxins from the body, via kidneys.

4. Fortifies Bone Density:

Coriander leaves are blessed with generous amounts of the connective tissue enriching minerals, namely calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Eating these leaves in dals and salads vastly augments bone density and soothes aching joints in arthritis and osteoporosis. Also Read: Osteoporosis - Everything that you need to know

5. Remedies Stomach Problems:

The anthocyanins in coriander leaves enable anti-inflammatory qualities, which aid in healing stomach ulcers and indigestion. Furthermore, eating coriander leaves also elevates the levels of gastric mucosal secretions, which defend the stomach walls from strong acids, thereby enhancing gut health.

Additional Health Benefits

Bolsters Skin Health

Coriander leaves are a powerhouse of Vitamin E and Vitamin A. Both are great at fighting against the free radicals that can damage the skin. Coriander also can fight issues of oily skin due to its ability to absorb excess oil from the skin. The herb also has antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antifungal properties that soothe and cool the skin.

 Promotes Brain Health

Coriander extracts have been found beneficial to protect cells in the brain and help combat brain damage due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Primarily, brain degeneration is triggered by inflammation and the herb has proven effective at alleviating symptoms of brain damage.

Fights Seasonal Infections

Antimicrobial properties of coriander have proven to be beneficial against fighting foodborne infections due to its plant compounds- one of them is known as Dodecenal. The oil derived from coriander and coriander seeds also provide help in treating urinary tract infections.

Conclusion:

Coriander leaves, apart from imparting a unique flavour and a refreshing scent to customary local desi recipes such as dals, soups and sambars, also supply key nutrients and offer a host of wellness advantages. Add a dash of fresh, bright green and crisp coriander leaves to your vegetable salad or evening snack, for uplifting and revitalizing your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Coriander Leaves Good For Males?

Yes, coriander is beneficial for men. The goodness of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supports overall health. Studies suggest coriander seeds and leaves may help improve testosterone levels, boost digestion, and enhance cardiovascular health. In addition, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying qualities boost stamina and vitality.

Is Coriander Good For Skin?

Yes, coriander is considered excellent for skin health. Potent antioxidant qualities fight free radicals, reducing signs of ageing like wrinkles and fine lines. Coriander leaves exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties, which may help prevent acne, blackheads, and skin infections. Applying coriander juice or paste on the skin can soothe irritation and improve glow.

How To Use Coriander Leaves For Diabetes?

Coriander may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin activity. Some ways to use it:

Coriander water: Soak a handful of coriander leaves or seeds in water overnight and drink in the morning.

Fresh leaves: Add raw coriander leaves to salads, soups, or chutneys.

Juice: Blend fresh leaves with water and drink in moderation.

If you have diabetes and are on medication, consult your doctor before regular use to avoid hypoglycaemia.

 Are Coriander Leaves Hot Or Cold?

In Ayurveda, coriander is considered a cooling herb. It balances excess heat in the body, supports digestion, and soothes acidity and inflammation. This makes it especially useful during summer.

Is Coriander Good For Hair?

Yes. Coriander leaves help promote healthy hair growth due to their rich vitamins profile C and K and minerals like iron. They improve scalp circulation, reduce dandruff, and may prevent hair thinning. Applying coriander paste to the scalp or drinking coriander juice regularly may support hair health.

Is Coriander Good For the Eyes?

Yes, coriander supports eye health. It contains Vitamin A, C, lutein, and beta-carotene, which protect against oxidative stress and may lower the risk of age-related eye problems. Its cooling effect can also soothe eye irritation when consumed or used as a compress.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) Polyphenols and Their Nutraceutical Value against Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Samir Scandar 1, Claudia Zadra 1, Maria Carla Marcotullio 1,*

Editors: H P Vasantha Rupasinghe1, George Grant1, Maria Atanassova1

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10220854/

Coriandrum sativum L.: A Review on Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Cardiovascular Benefits

Nisa Najibah Mahleyuddin 1,†, Said Moshawih 1,†, Long Chiau Ming 1, Hanis Hanum Zulkifly 2, Nurolaini Kifli 1, Mei Jun Loy 3, Md Moklesur Rahman Sarker 4, Yaser Mohammed Al-Worafi 5,6, Bey Hing Goh 7,8, Shobna Thuraisingam 9, Hui Poh Goh 1,

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8747064/