Cilantro: benefits and harm to human health

Cilantro is a spicy annual plant that has been actively used by people in various fields for more than one thousand years. This herb is sometimes also called "coriander" or "Chinese parsley." Initially, this culture was used in medicine and only with time did it begin to be used as a food product.

What is cilantro and how does it look

From the side of cilantro it is very similar to parsley, however, when rubbing the plant, it begins to emit a characteristic coriander aroma. The stems are erect, they have a rounded shape, their average height is 30 cm. The foliage, which is located closer to the base, has oblong petioles on which broad-leaf leaves are located. On the upper tier, the leaves are divided into narrow segments and are attached to short petioles. The plant has small pink and white flowers, collected in umbrellas and formed in 3-5 rays. After a flowering period, fruits with 2 seeds appear. Flowering occurs in the period from May to July, although this largely depends on climatic conditions. If the conditions are harsh, then flowering can last until autumn.

Fragrant spice came to us from the Mediterranean. During the period of active development of the Roman Empire, the conquerors, along with the imposition of their statehood, spread this culture throughout central and western Europe. A little later, cilantro migrated to foggy Albion, gaining wide popularity there. True, today in the UK, especially in the south of the country, grass is treated like a weed. During the time of the great development of new continents, sailors transported it to distant lands. In the Russian Empire, mass culture began to grow only at the beginning of the 19th century.

What is the difference between cilantro and parsley

As already mentioned, outwardly parsley and cilantro are very similar, and not even an experienced person can always distinguish them. If we talk about external differences, then, unlike coriander, parsley has larger, brighter and not very wavy leaves. The main differences lie in the taste of the grass and its smell. It is, of course, very difficult to make a mistake, because cilantro has a rather saturated aroma. It resembles a mixture of lemon and pepper, some people even note that the grass slightly “gives away bugs”. This smell is triggered by decyl aldehyde, a substance contained in the composition of greenery.

Parsley has a milder odor, which, as a rule, does not cause discomfort. If we talk about culinary characteristics, then both spices are used as a flavoring and fortifying ingredient in various dishes. Both cultures are used for the production of essential oils and are used for medical purposes.

Cilantro and coriander: the same thing or not

Some people think that cilantro and coriander are different plants, but this is a fallacy, because they are two names of the same culture.To be more precise, it is important to note that roots and seeds are attributed to coriander, and greens are often called cilantro. Each part of the plant has its own taste and smell.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• calories - 23 kcal;
• proteins - 2.1 g;
• fats - 0.5 g;
• carbohydrates - 0.9 g.

Cilantro is rich in vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, C, E, K, PP), macro- and microelements (sodium, calcium, potassium and iron), as well as essential oils, pectin, rutin and alkaloids.

Useful properties of cilantro

General benefit

1. Detoxifies the body. Heavy metals that are in the tissues of the human body can cause pathologies. For example, they provoke heart disease, infertility and neurological disorders. Cilantro contains compounds that can affect the activity of toxic heavy metals, so they are converted into easily digestible forms for the body. Studies have shown that the plant also accelerates the excretion of heavy metals. It was also found that coriander intake accelerates the elimination of lead and aluminum deposits from the body. With the regular use of juice and fresh herbs, along with natural antibiotics or antiviral drugs, the body can be very detoxified.
2. Prevents cardiovascular disease. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart failure, coronary heart disease, and thickening of the heart muscle. Diets high in potassium, which is found in cilantro, play an important role in controlling blood pressure. With sufficient use of this substance, the body releases more sodium and water, thereby lowering blood pressure. In addition to lowering blood pressure, coriander also has an anti-thermal effect. This medicinal and vegetable plant prevents the formation of atheroma, atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke. It is also worth noting that the polyphenols contained in the plant help prevent oxidative damage, which can negatively affect the heart.
3. Lowers cholesterol and triglycerides. Chinese parsley helps reduce total cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Therefore, this product is great for people with an increased likelihood of myocardial infarction. The leaves contain acids that help lower blood cholesterol. In addition, the seeds are rich in substances that help control the process of lipid digestion, which affects the reduction of cholesterol. Seeds also have a strong influence on how the body digests food and absorbs fat.
4. Normalizes digestion. Linalool and borneol are substances contained in Chinese parsley. They support the digestion of the liver. Coriander has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for nausea, flatulence, bloating, heartburn, and stomach cramps. Eating spices will contribute to good digestion through the production of enzymes and digestive juices, which are involved in the breakdown of food. Experts say: with regular use of coriander, you can get rid of the symptoms of dyspepsia (indigestion). Greens can also be included in the diet of children suffering from colic - it will help to effectively solve this problem. It is also worth noting that when using hot exotic condiments and products (for example, curry, hot pepper), people who are not accustomed to such food are much easier to transfer if crushed cilantro greens are added to its composition.
5. Lowers blood sugar. Leaves and stems of Chinese parsley help lower blood glucose levels. They contain quite a lot of fiber, which has a positive effect on the body with diabetes. Phytonutrients contained in herbs control sugar concentration, therefore, during the treatment of diabetes, it is recommended to include crushed leaves and plant stems in salads, sauces, as this will help improve overall well-being.
6. Soothes the nervous system. Spice can be used as a means of calming nerves and normalizing sleep. Thanks to sedative properties, the plant helps to improve sleep quality. Linalool, a substance contained in the product, has an anti-stress and anti-anxiety effect on the body. It is worth noting that standard medications designed to get rid of stress and nervous tension have a number of side effects - confusion, hallucinations, overexcitation, aggression, memory problems, muscle weakness. Coriander, unlike these medicines, has no side effects.
7. It is a natural antiseptic. Some people regularly suffer from ulcers on their cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums. Lemonellol, a monoterpene alcohol contained in essential oil, is an excellent antiseptic. Therefore, to accelerate the healing process of wounds, you can use spice as a natural antiseptic. In this case, it is recommended to rinse your mouth regularly with drinks and tinctures based on coriander.
8. Prevents urinary tract infections. Cilantro can be used to prevent and treat urinary tract infections (urethritis and cystitis), since it has antibacterial properties and helps fight E. coli, Klebsiella, enterobacteria, staphylococcus and streptococcus. As a rule, during the treatment period, patients take tinctures based on leaves and spice seeds.
9. Protects against bacteria. The leaves and seeds of the plant contain substances that protect the body from the harmful effects of bacteria. For example, Escherichia coli, Salmonella and some types of staphylococcus cannot resist the substances contained in coriander oil. In addition, scientists say cilantro oil can be used as a food preservative to prevent bacterial contamination of foods.
10. Supports brain activity. Studies conducted several years ago showed that by adding Chinese parsley leaves to the diet, weakening of brain activity, especially in the areas responsible for memory, can be prevented. Cilantro can also help in the treatment of various pathologies, for example, Alzheimer's disease.
11. Coriander helps fight cancer. Due to its antioxidant properties, coriander is classified as a natural product that protects the body from oncology. The antioxidants contained in the leaves of the plant (beta-carotene, vitamin C and E, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin and campferol) are extremely useful in the case of cancer, as they help to fight it effectively. Substances help reduce the risk of oxidative stress, protect DNA from carcinogens, and block the spread of cancer cells.

For women

The vitamins contained in the plant are beneficial to the female body, especially with severe discomfort during critical days. Cilantro supports the female body in that it normalizes the menstrual cycle, relieves pain, discomfort with uterine cramps. It is recommended to use it for those representatives of the fair sex who are especially difficult to tolerate PMS. Decoctions and teas based on greens help to alleviate the condition during menopause.

In addition, many women suffer from metabolic disorders. Spice can help normalize metabolic processes in such a way that for a long time this problem will not remind of itself.

As you know, women are more prone to nervous disorders, often this results in sleep disturbances, headaches and chronic fatigue.Chinese parsley will help normalize the functioning of the nervous system, relieve stress and spleen, headaches and insomnia. Tea based on spice will contribute to a calm, good sleep and vigorous awakening.

For men

Chinese parsley has a beneficial effect on the reproductive system and potency. It is used to treat cystitis, pyelonephritis, urolithiasis and prostatitis. Coriander is an excellent immunostimulant. The plant supports the body's resources that protect it from the harmful effects and help fight infections.

The spice is also useful for men, as it positively affects the heart muscle and blood vessels, lowers the risk of heart attack, supports vascular health and improves overall health. The value of this product for the male body is based on its composition, since it includes a large number of necessary substances.

Men are especially sensitive to disorders associated with the genitourinary system. Very often this affects the nervous sphere. In this case, cilantro will also help, since this spice helps normalize the nervous system.

During pregnancy

Although coriander is a therapeutic and medicinal plant, its use is strongly discouraged at the beginning of pregnancy because the product may increase the risk of miscarriage. Also in the early period of pregnancy, it can provoke the formation of blood clots.

It is worth noting that fans of Chinese medicine should better put the drugs aside for a while, since they often contain spice seeds. After three months of pregnancy, you can already include small portions of grass in the diet or use the product in the form of infusions. At the same time, it is important to remember the moderation of consumption, as well as the fact that it is not advisable to do this every day on an ongoing basis.

Women who are in the early stages of pregnancy and have already managed to eat a little cilantro should not panic. A small amount of spice will not have a negative effect on the child. However, in the future, coriander consumption should be avoided at least until the second trimester. After this period, you can use aromatic herbs in dishes, as they will enrich the body with a number of useful substances. It is important that the greens are thoroughly washed and cleaned of chemicals before use.

If we talk about essential oils, then this product is prohibited during pregnancy, as it can harm the fetus. Moreover, the use of oil is prohibited throughout pregnancy. The substances they contain stimulate muscle contraction and can provoke premature birth.

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, greens can benefit both the mother and the baby, but only if none of them have an allergy to the product, and moderate consumption is observed. The composition of cilantro includes many useful substances, but one of the most important is folic acid. It is necessary that the child receive it in sufficient quantities, since this significantly affects the usefulness of its growth and development. At the same time, some experts say that during lactation it is necessary to refrain from consuming greens, its maximum can be used as seasoning.

For kids

Since the spice has a rich taste and smell, do not rush to include this product in the diet of a child. Chinese parsley is rich in biochemical substances that can disrupt the baby’s digestive system, so starting to add greens to the baby’s menu is no earlier than 8–9 months from birth.If everything is done correctly, the product will not only not harm the child, but will enrich his body with useful substances.

Young children are prone to flatulence and stomach pain - problems that cilantro can help solve. Grass is great for the baby's body, as it is rich in antioxidants. In addition, the plant has antimicrobial properties that will help in the fight against various infections.

Coriander is also useful in the treatment of diseases such as jaundice, hepatitis and cholestasis. Children very often suffer from intestinal parasites, which, settling in the small intestine, take away nutrients from the body. Spice has anthelmintic properties, so it can rid the body of parasites. Since babies are more susceptible to toxic substances, they should be regularly fed coriander, which will help cleanse the body of harmful accumulations and protect it from toxins in the future.

If a child is allergic to products such as apples, carrots, celery, kiwi, peanuts, parsley, anise seeds, fennel, then before including cilantro in the diet, it is worth consulting with a pediatrician. Usually, children are given weed in the form of seasoning, but sometimes juices are prepared on its basis.

When losing weight

Cilantro is a low-calorie, fiber-rich product, so it will have a positive effect on the weight loss process. Greens saturates the body well, gives a feeling of satiety, which avoids snacks and generally eat less.

Fiber in the product helps lower cholesterol and triglycerides, which also affects weight. In addition, coriander is rich in oils, which improve the digestive system and, thus, help to better absorb food. Spice also cleanses the body of heavy metals, is involved in the elimination of toxins, which contributes to weight loss.

Chinese parsley prevents the accumulation of fat on the inner walls of arteries and veins, while lowering blood glucose levels. During weight loss, usually use infusions of cilantro. Also, the plant can be used fresh to give flavor to dishes.

The benefits of cilantro seeds

Cilantro seeds are no less useful to the greenery itself. They have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, help get rid of infectious diseases, for example, gastrointestinal tract diseases. Seeds are the causative agents of appetite, improve digestion, help with excessive gas formation. They are often included in the composition of choleretic drugs, since they have a positive effect on the liver. Seeds are useful in the case of colds, they can be used as part of expectorants and in recipes of decoctions for vascular diseases.

Cilantro essential oil: properties and applications

The oil has useful properties that are used in various fields to treat many ailments. Here are some properties and applications of this product:

1. Colds. The oil supports immune cells in the fight against pathogenic bacteria.
2. Nervous strain, rheumatism, neuralgia and arthritis. Oil normalizes the nervous system.
3. Flatulence and diarrhea. The product relieves heaviness in the stomach, supports appetite and digestion.
4. Muscle aches, fatigue. To relax your muscles, you can prepare warm baths with cilantro oil.
5. Skin diseases. The product is used to treat dermatitis, skin itching and various inflammations.
6. Fungal infections. Oil can lubricate the affected area.
7. Excessive sweating. Oil can help reduce perspiration.

Cilantro in medicine

Cilantro is also used in the field of medicine.Spice is often part of complex therapy for infectious lesions. Also, greens help improve brain activity and support heart health. It can be used in cases of hysteria and neurogenic suffocation.

With diabetes

Cilantro is useful for diabetes because it helps to reduce glucose in the blood, removes excess fluid and toxins from the body, and also improves overall well-being. People with diabetes are often prone to obesity. To solve this problem, it is recommended to include spice in your daily diet. Chinese parsley will also help lower blood pressure and improve blood composition. In diabetes, it is important to consider the glycemic index of the product. Coriander has a low glycemic index (30), so it can be consumed with this disease.

With pancreatitis

Cilantro is one of those products that are allowed for pancreatitis. Moreover, abuse can lead to unpleasant consequences. The composition of the spice contains vitamins and oils, which have an enveloping effect, which will positively affect the pancreas. You can use it, but not with an exacerbation of the disease. During remission, it is allowed to eat up to 2 tsp. greens per day (preferably heat-treated).

With gastritis

There is no unequivocal answer to the question - is cilantro permitted for gastritis? The reason is that the plant has both positive and negative properties. The composition of the diet may vary depending on the stage of development of the disease or acidity. Experts allow the use of coriander in the remission phase and prohibit eating spice during exacerbation. At the same time, you can include greens in the menu only in case of reduced acidity of the stomach.

With gout

With gout, a variety of herbs is usually contraindicated because it contains many acids that can harm the body. Cilantro is forbidden to use in any case, regardless of the method of preparation.

For the liver

Cilantro has a beneficial effect on the liver, especially in cases of disruption of its work. Spice improves appetite, it can be used as seasoning, tinctures, or fresh.

Cilantro-based traditional medicine recipes

For digestive problems

1. Grate cilantro seeds (20 g) in a mortar, pour hot water (1 l) and insist for about 10 minutes.
2. Take 1 cup of drink after a meal.

Halitosis

1. Pour dried cilantro herb (1 tsp) with boiling water (2 cups) and put on fire for 10 minutes.
2. Rinse the mouth when odor occurs.

For nervous disorders

1. Spice seeds (1 tbsp) pour vodka (100 g).
2. Pour the drink into a dark bottle and let it brew (2 weeks).
3. Strain the infusion. Take 45 drops throughout the day. The course lasts 10 days.

From belching and heartburn

1. Seeds (2 tsp) pour boiling water (1 cup), cover and leave for 20 minutes.
2. Means to strain. Take 1 glass of drink after meals up to 2 times a day.

From dyspepsia and flatulence

1. Seeds (1 tsp) pour boiling water (1 cup), leave for about 2 hours.
2. Means to strain. Take a third of a glass 30 minutes before eating up to 3 times a day. The course lasts up to 4 weeks.

Cilantro in cosmetology

For hair

1. Mix mint (1 tbsp) with coriander greens (1 tbsp).
2. Pour boiling water (1 liter) and let it brew for about 30 minutes.
3. Rinse your hair after washing.

Skin toner

1. Shredded spice leaves (1 tablespoon) pour boiling water (1 cup).
2. Allow the product to infuse for about 20 minutes.
3. Wipe the skin with tonic up to 2 times a day.

Soothing mask for the skin

1. Mix cilantro with yogurt, place in a blender and beat.
2. Apply a mask to the skin of the face.
3. Wait 30 minutes. Wash your face with warm water.

Acne and Acne Remedy

1. Mix lemon juice (1 tsp) with cilantro (1 tsp).
2. Apply mask to affected area.
3. Wait 6 minutes. Wash your face with water.

The use of cilantro in cooking

The specific taste of cilantro divided people into those who hate this greens, and those who cannot imagine dishes without adding this spice. It can be consumed both fresh and dried. It gives the dishes brightness and freshness. Typically, the product is added at the last cooking stage. Coriander is an excellent seasoning for soups, salads, meat and fish dishes. It combines wonderfully with many products, saturates them with a distinctive flavor and incomparable aroma.

Chinese parsley is included in various seasonings, be it curry and berber. It is also used as a flavoring agent for meat dishes, sauces, puddings, syrups and various drinks.

What can be replaced

Instead of cilantro, parsley is usually placed in dishes. This, of course, is not an equivalent replacement, but the most suitable. Some advise replacing it with dill, celery or basil. In some cases, you can use anise, saffron or thyme.

Cilantro consumption rate

The daily norm of consumption of green cilantro is 35 g, seeds - 4 g.

Harm and contraindications

Contraindications largely depend on the individual characteristics of the body, as well as the quantity and quality of the product. Since greens contain various acids, carotene, aromatic substances and other highly active elements, it is contraindicated in people predisposed to allergies.

It is also forbidden to eat Chinese parsley during exacerbations of gastritis and pancreatitis. Spice is not recommended in cases of coronary disease, with hypertension and thrombophlebitis. Excessive use of the product increases the risk of heart attack, diabetes, disorders of the nervous system and sleep.

How to choose and store cilantro

When choosing spices, you need to pay attention to the freshness of herbs and the strength of the bunches. Do not buy a bunch if the plant is sluggish or rotten. There should be no yellow or blackened spots on the leaves.

For storage, cilantro is usually dried or frozen. To dry the spice, you need to cut it into pieces 1 cm long, put it on clean paper (but not newspaper) with a layer of 1 cm. Dry it at a temperature of 20 ° C, preferably in the shade without dust and insects, or you can use an electric dryer (temperature up to 35 ° C), dry until all moisture is gone. Pour dry grass into a sealed glass jar and store in a dark place at room temperature and relative humidity up to 55%.

Is it possible to freeze

To freeze, you should grind the stems and leaves, put them in ice molds and pour olive oil there. These cubes can be used for pastas, hot potato dishes and vegetable soups.

Can animals be given cilantro?

Cilantro dogs are not contraindicated. Usually it is added in crushed form to various cereals and feed. Spice is forbidden to cats, as it can provoke poisoning.

How to grow cilantro on a windowsill

To grow coriander on the windowsill, you should know a few rules:

1. The roots of the culture are not very developed, so up to 3 bushes should be planted in one small pot.
2. It is desirable that the pot for planting was made of clay, enamel should not be on it.
3. Sow the seeds 1.5 cm deep (do not soak).
4. Before the first seedling emergence, you need to cover with a film. When the first leaves appear, the sprouts should be thinned, leaving the most tall and strong.
5. Watering is not often, but plentiful. The earth must be completely saturated with moisture. In winter, watering should be reduced.
6. Cover at least 4 hours a day.
7. Seeds will germinate after 7-14 days, greens will be ready for use in a month. Flower ovaries must be pinched.
8. It is recommended to cut the upper ovaries.
9. Plants should not be transplanted.

It is important to note that the plant does not tolerate dry soil, it loves light and irrigation. In winter, you need to organize normal lighting. It is better not to save on the ground, while the soil needs to be decontaminated. To eat greens all year, you need to plant at least 3 pots, and at different times of the year.

Interesting facts about cilantro

1. The substances contained in cilantro can help neutralize the effects of alcohol and sober up a person.
2. Spices attribute unusual properties - a plant can awaken a person’s creative abilities.
3. Coriander seeds are used to make sweets.

Photo of cilantro