Benefits Of Coriander Seeds (Dhania Seeds)
Coriandum sativum or coriander, also known as Chinese parsley, dhania, or cilantro, is grown extensively in southern Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. A soft, hairless plant growing up to 50 cm, it is a popular herb used extensively in cuisines world over and is also highly beneficial for health. With pale asymmetrical flowers, all the parts of the plant are used for both purposes.
Coriander seeds are often used as a spice in Indian cuisine and cooked well till the flavor blends with the dish. It has lemony, citrusy flavor when crushed, and it contains pinene and terpenes linalool.
Coriander seeds are at their best when used fresh. Often, it is dry roasted and ground before being added to a dish.
In this this article, we discuss the various health benefits of coriander (dhania) seeds and the medicinal uses of the leaves, seeds, and powder.
Health benefits and medicinal uses
- One of coriander seeds many medicinal uses is that they can be used for clearing colds and coughs. Coriander seeds can be boiled in water along with little pepper corns, cumin seeds, and garlic flakes to make a decoction that helps clear phlegm and nasal congestion.
- Oddly enough, the same concoction can be used to clear flatulence. Coriander seeds can be boiled in water to make coriander tea and mixed with honey to soothe the acidity, ease constipation, clear toxins from the body, and prevent indigestion. Its digestive benefits can be attributed to the dietary fiber found in coriander.
- Its antioxidant properties make it excellent for preventing free radicle damage. For the same reason, coriander seeds are beneficial to skin as helps detoxify the skin and can also be used to treat fungal infections.
- Coriander seeds and cumin seeds boiled in water and strained after cooling can be used as a diuretic; this decoction also cools down the body. It can also help lower LDL cholesterol and protect against colon cancer.
- Coriander seeds are rich in copper, magnesium, iron, potassium, manganese, and zinc. These essential minerals help in increasing red blood cell count, improving metabolism, regulating growth, enhancing sperm generation, synthesizing nucleic acids, keeping blood pressure in check, and keeping diabetes in control.
- Coriander is also an effective antiseptic as it contains citronelol, which helps in healing mouth ulcers. It can also be used as a remedy against bad breath. Its antibacterial property helps it fight chicken pox and reduces pain caused by the pox.
- Coriander seeds enhance proper endocrine secretion, relieving menstrual discomfort and pain.
Side effects- Excessive use of coriander seeds can cause liver problems.
- Pregnant women can use coriander seeds but in lesser amounts.
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