Coriander Seed

Coriander seed is derived from an annual herb known as Coriandrum sativum and it is actually the typical term that is used to refer to the tiny ribbed brown fruit of this herb.  For many centuries, the bright and delicate green leaves of this herb are applied as a form of culinary herb, hence coriander seed is also known as cilantro or Chinese parsley. 

The coriander seed is basically indigenous to the Mediterranean Europe and West Africa.  Now, it is widely cultivated in many countries especially those with temperate climates.  In the ancient times and till now, the coriander seed is commonly applied as a flavoring especially to a variety of commercial foods, specifically frozen dairy desserts, beverages, puddings, and candies.  And it is reported that the pleasing aromatic oil of the coriander seed is a typical ingredient applied in lotions, perfumes, as well as in creams.

But coriander seed is more than just a flavoring and a spice used in cooking.  It has several medicinal benefits and it greatly promotes natural healing.  Historically, in the ancient Greece, later in Great Britain, Rome, China, and India, the coriander seed is greatly used by some healers.   It is particularly applied in traditional medicine for treating gastrointestinal disorders. 

The coriander seed is also used in the traditional healing practice in India known as Ayurvedic medicine as it is mixed with the cardamom seed and caraway.  In fact, some of the traditional European healers and herbalists prepared it along with caraway, fennel, and anise seeds.

The coriander’s oil which usually taken from the coriander seed has also been applied through the ages.  The Egyptians particularly believed that it gives immorality and it was essential for enhancing a man’s sperm count.  However, the coriander seed is now applied by the modern herbalists to treat stomachaches as well as to enhance the digestion.  The coriander seed is also used in the recent times for the purpose of reducing stress for the people to be able to express their thoughts.

There are also some reports which noted that the coriander seed’s oil, as it contains geranial, vitamin C, linalool, and potassium, greatly helps in the proper functioning of the digestive system, and circulatory system.  It is also good for the skin condition.  Even those who have migraine headaches used this herb in a form of tea a couple of times every day for the reason that this herb has the potential for relieving the pain. 

But even though there has a long story of the coriander seed’s folk applications and functions, still no exact research has been conducted to provide some concrete proofs for its effects in humans.  But still many of the laboratory and animal studies along with the anecdotal evidence suggest that it has some effects as a mild digestive aid as it provides relief to flatulence, soothes upset stomach, and revive appetite.  In addition, coriander seed has some properties for fighting fungal and bacterial infections, and it is reported to be diuretic. 

Today, due to its multiple anecdotal and laboratory-based benefits to humans and its being rich in vitamins and minerals, the coriander seed now comes in the form of oil, liquid, fresh herb, dried herb or tea.  The coriander seed is largely made available in the different health food stores.