Coriander, popularly known as Dhania is an aromatic spice that is extensively found and stocked up in almost all kitchen cabinets throughout the globe. Be it in the form of small round seeds, fresh leaves, or the grounded powder, this traditional herb has found its way in several Indian cuisines, pickles, vegetable curries, or as spice mixes used for tadka in sambar or dal. Although its unique taste enhances the flavour of several cuisines, little did we know that these tiny seeds of wonder, offer a plethora of health benefits and increase the nutritional value of the food.
Coriander, which goes by the botanical name Coriandrum sativum, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Parsley family and is native to Southern Europe, North Africa and West Asia. The leaves of the plant are known by different names such as cilantro leaves or Chinese parsley. While the fresh leaves are used for garnishing or added directly to curries, the small round yellowish-brown seeds are either used as whole or grounded into powder for cooking. The unique lemony citrus flavour of the seed powder comes from the essential oils that are present in the hollow cavities of the plump brown seeds.
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The holistic science of Ayurveda preaches the use of coriander seeds or seed powder to cure stomach related ailments like constipation, indigestion, abdominal pain etc. Ayurvedic scriptures of Charaka Samhita categorizes coriander as a Trushnaprashamana (that which relieves excessive thirst) and Sheetaprashmana (that which relieves excessive cold) herb. Regular use of this super seed powder by infusing it in lukewarm water can even provide relief from abdominal cramps during menstrual flow.
Effect On Doshas
These tiny seed powders showcase Tikta (i.e. bitter) and Kashaya (i.e. astringent) Rasa. It shows Laghu (i.e. light) and Snigdha (i.e. oily) Guna, Ushna Virya (i.e. hot potency) and has a Madhura Vipaka (sweet metabolic taste). The host of active constituents present in the powder effectively balances all three doshas i.e. Vata (air), Pitta (digestion) and Kapha (earth and water). It also actively removes the AMA toxins from the body.
Nutritional Value
Enriched with the goodness of essential vitamins like vitamin A, C and K, minerals like manganese, iron, folate and potassium, a myriad of antioxidants and volatile oils like linalool, geraniol, a-pinene, camphene and terpene, coriander powder holds high significance in treating a host of ailments including arthritis, pain, inflammation, headaches, allergy, anaemia, hyperglycaemia, heart problems, skin conditions and even cancer.
Homemade Coriander Powder
Although owing to the fast-paced lifestyle, most people tend to buy all the powdered spices right from the stores, there are still many of us who would prefer the age-old technique of grinding the seeds to get fresh powder right at home. Be it cumin, coriander, chilli, ginger or dried mangoes, most food enthusiasts have the fetish of making everything from scratch before preparing a dish. Unlike store-bought ones, homemade spice powders have a longer shelf life and are free of any adulterations in the form of preservatives or other additives. And moreover, they help bring out an enticing aroma and flavour of the food when added in the right quantity.
So, what are you waiting for, let's put on our chef hats and prepare coriander powder right at home.
How To Make Coriander Powder At Home?
Ingredients:
2-3 cups of dhania seeds (sabut dhania)
Grinder
Method:
Pour the dhania seeds on a plate.
Pick it to remove stones or unwanted particles.
Pour the seeds on a frying pan.
Dry roast them till the seeds turn slightly brown and crisp and give out a nice spicy fragrance.
Use the grinder to make a fine powder of the seeds.
Store the powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Include this green sprig or seed powder to your daily diet, to uplift your health and enjoy the excellent health benefits, cilantro has to offer:Health Benefits Of Coriander Powder
Manages Blood Sugar
The hypoglycaemic property of coriander powder plays a crucial role in reducing the blood sugar level of the body. Presence of volatile oils and essential nutrients strongly inhibits the release of sugar into the blood and increases the insulin levels in the body. Thus, it converts starch into energy and reduces the symptoms of diabetes such as frequent urination, fatigue, sudden hunger pangs, etc.
Also Read: 5 Simple Ways To Manage Diabetes In Summer
Prevents Infections
The abundance of anti-bacterial, anti-septic, and antimicrobial properties, make cilantro the healthiest choice among vegetables to shield the body from various infections. Enriched with essential nutrients like Vitamin A, C, folic acid, and beta-carotene, regular consumption of coriander powder helps ward off infections like common cough, cold and flu symptoms.
Aids In Digestion
The abundance of fibre in coriander seed powder makes it a natural digestive having hot potency. The grounded seed powder of cilantro or coriander boosts digestion relieves from various gastrointestinal anomalies like constipation, flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome and also improves liver function. When used with other spice options or simply sprinkled onto everyday foods, it is highly effective in removing harmful AMA toxins from the body, all the while improving absorption of nutrients, promoting digestion and assimilation of the consumed food.
Also Read: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: 5 Incredible Ayurvedic Herbs To Relieve IBS
Promotes Heart Health
Being a powerhouse of antioxidants, coriander powder holds high significance in promoting heart functions and reducing the risk of heart ailments. The presence of anti-coagulant and anti-fibrinolytic properties prevents blockage and formation of clots in the arteries causing heart block. Being a natural diuretic, it helps flush out sodium from the body and thus reduce elevated blood pressure readings.
The rich source of flavonoids in the seed powder reduces the formation of debris within the arteries and blood vessels, thus preventing atherosclerosis (i.e. hardening of blood vessels). Regular intake of the seed powder in food also reduces the bad cholesterol (i.e. low-density lipoproteins) and effectively increases good cholesterol (i.e. high-density lipoproteins).
Augments Hair And Skin
The potent antibacterial and antioxidative nature of this aromatic seed powder promotes overall skin and hair health and is strongly advised for various skin infections like acne, pimples, rashes, boils etc. It is also useful in treating scalp infections like dandruff, itching and hair fall. Thanks to the goodness of essential vitamins, the spice, when taken in regular diet, bestows a glowing complexion by preventing the various signs of ageing and prevents premature greying of hair and promotes new hair growth.
Application of coriander powder paste on the affected area can speed up wound healing and cure acne and pimples and also prevent further breakouts.
Prevents Vision Disorders
The benefits of Coriander are more than many. Not only are these miniature leaves packed with minerals such as phosphorus and potassium, but they are also a great source of Vitamin A which aids in preventing vision disorders and macular degeneration. Vitamin A helps keep the retina moist and serves as a quick remedy against conjunctivitis. Squeezing a few drops of Coriander juice in the eyes reduces strain and stress of eyes and gets rid of the infection. Coriander leaves are also loaded with a great amount of beta-carotene which is considered to be powerful enough to reverse the effects of vision degradation in aging patients. Several eye care products also use coriander oil as their key ingredient for it’s antimicrobial properties.
Beneficial To Bone health
Multiple ailments related to bones such as Arthritis and Osteoporosis are a cause of concern around the world these days. Besides calcium, which is vital to bone health, Vitamin K also has a potential role in bone mass building. Apparently, Coriander is said to be one of the richest source of this Vitamin. The anti-inflammatory properties help your bones repair themselves and protect against bone loss or low bone density.
Cures Mouth Ulcers
A component of essential oil called Citronellol is another amazing ingredient that Coriander contains which fights harmful microbes and heals those discomforting ulcers of the mouth. Coriander seeds also work as instant mouth fresheners. A lot of toothpaste may contain some amount of Coriander for it’s amazing flavour and antiseptic properties.
Pop these power packed seeds from your kitchen at any time of the day and keep many ailments and your bad breath at bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Does Dhaniya Powder Taste Like?
Dhaniya powder has a warm, citrusy flavour with a slightly sweet undertone. It is mild and adds depth to dishes without being overpowering.
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How is Dhaniya Powder Used in Cooking?
Dhaniya powder is used as a seasoning or flavouring agent in a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, stews etc. It can also be sprinkled over salads or used to garnish dishes.
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What Are the Health Benefits of Dhaniya Powder?
Dhaniya powder is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. This spice powder is best known to aid gut health, reduce cholesterol levels, and manage blood sugar levels.
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Can Dhaniya Powder Be Used as a Substitute for Fresh Coriander?
Yes, dhaniya powder can be used as a substitute for fresh coriander in recipes. However, the flavour profile will be different, so it may not always be an exact substitute.
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Is Dhaniya Powder Gluten-Free?
Yes, dhaniya powder is a gluten-free spice, making it an ideal choice for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
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Can Dhaniya Powder Help With Digestion?
Yes, dhaniya powder is known to promote the digestion process. It can help relieve indigestion problems and offers respite from bloating, and gas when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet.
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How Can I Make Dhaniya Powder at Home?
To make dhaniya powder at home, dry roast coriander seeds in a pan until fragrant, let it cool down and grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
Conclusion:
Coriander powder is one such aromatic humble spice that has innumerable benefits. Although most of us use it in culinary and seasoning purposes, it has magnitude health benefits. Thanks to the goodness of the essential bio-active ingredients it is widely used for improving heart health, aiding in digestion, managing diabetes and cholesterol, preventing infections, stopping hair fall and many more. Include this incredible seed powder to your diet to enjoy its diverse health benefits.
References:
Nutritional and medicinal aspects of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) A review
Muhammad Nadeem, Faqir Muhammad Anjum University of Gambia
Muhammad Issa Khan, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Saima Tehseen
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 and Hui Poh Goh1,*
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8747064/
