Cilantro, also known as coriander, is an herb with a wonderful aroma, and you might recognize it from salsa or guacamole. All parts of the plant can be used in cooking, but the dried seeds and the fresh leaves are used the most. Besides its flavor, many people value the health benefits of cilantro.
The Romans used this plant to mask the odor of spoiled meat, while the ancient Greeks used cilantro essential oil in the creation of perfumes. Besides these general purposes, coriander is traditionally used to support the body’s natural cleansing processes, healthy blood sugar levels, and cardiovascular health.
Growing your own coriander is very easy, and you will have a fresh supply throughout the year. Here are 9 health benefits of this plant that you might not have heard about before.
1. Supporting the Body’s Natural Cleansing From Heavy Metals
One of the best-known traditional uses of cilantro is related to heavy metals. People can be exposed to heavy metals through non-organic foods, some fish, household water supplies, smoking or secondhand smoke, aluminum foil or aluminum cookware, and some over-the-counter products such as antacids.
A high level of heavy metals in the body is linked to various serious health conditions, like kidney disease, heart disease, emotional problems, cognitive decline, weak bones, lung disease, and other serious illnesses. Some early laboratory research suggests that compounds in cilantro may bind to these metals, but more studies in people are needed. Suspected heavy metal exposure should always be checked by a doctor.
2. Supporting Cardiovascular Health
Generally, a diet rich in plants supports cardiovascular health. Some studies suggest that cilantro may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol, thanks to the organic acids in its content. For this reason, it is a popular addition to the diet of people who care about their heart and want to prevent atherosclerosis.
3. Supporting Healthy Blood Sugar
Because of its traditional use for blood sugar and cholesterol, this plant has been called an “anti-diabetic” plant in some parts of Europe. 100 grams of cilantro contain 521 milligrams of potassium. Eating cilantro and limiting sodium intake may be a helpful part of a diet aimed at balanced blood sugar levels (1) (2). People with diabetes should follow their doctor’s advice and keep taking their prescribed medication.
4. Antioxidant Content
Cilantro contains plenty of antioxidants, among which is quercetin. Antioxidants help protect cells from free radical damage, which is associated with the aging process. A diet rich in antioxidants is linked to a lower risk of chronic conditions later in life, such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and macular degeneration (3).
5. Calming Properties
Cilantro is traditionally used to relax the muscles and as a mild calming herb. Some animal studies suggest it may help ease anxiety and reduce the effects of stress. A pleasant way to relieve stress and calm your mind is to drink some cilantro, celery, and cucumber juice (4).
6. May Support Sleep Quality
This herb has calming effects, so many people use it in the evening to support better sleep quality (5).
7. Supporting Healthy Blood Pressure
Cilantro fits well into a diet aimed at healthy blood pressure. A low-sodium and high-potassium diet can help keep your blood pressure balanced, and cilantro is a good food for this diet. 100 grams of fresh cilantro leaves contain 521 milligrams of potassium and just 46 milligrams of sodium. You can use it in salads or juices. It does not replace blood pressure medication prescribed by your doctor.
8. Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Properties
In laboratory studies, this plant has shown anti-fungal and antiseptic properties, which is why it is traditionally used for skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, cilantro may also support overall oral health (6) (7).
9. Natural Internal Deodorant
Cilantro is rich in chlorophyll, so many people use it as a natural internal deodorant. Chlorophyll is believed to support the natural cleansing work of the kidneys, liver, and digestive tract, which in turn may help reduce the bacteria that cause odor when we sweat through the feet and armpits. In this way, cilantro may help your body smell fresh and clean.
Via Live Love Fruit
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your doctor about any health concern.