Coriander: what is it?

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Coriander is an annual plant that is usually grown for use in cooking. In addition, it is used in folk medicine, cosmetology, aromatherapy, perfumery, thanks to its rich composition. Coriander contains in its composition a large number of vitamins and other nutrients, therefore: that this should be considered in more detail.

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Plant description

Coriander is a plant of the umbellate family. It is widespread in countries of Asia, Africa, India, Europe. The average height of the plant is 1 m. It begins its flowering in the beginning of summer. The flowers are collected in small bundles that resemble the shape of an umbrella. They have a pale pink or white hue. How does coriander look?

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The plant is harvested as the seeds mature. After that, it is bound in small bundles and dried in the fresh air in the shade. Green leaves are used as a seasoning in cooking. Cilantro and coriander are the same? Many believe that these are completely different plants. In fact, young leaves are coriander. Therefore this is another name for coriander.

Composition of

What is in the cilantro? This plant is enriched with vitamins, essential oils and other substances that have a beneficial effect on the body. It contains the following components:

  • decyl acid;
  • acid glycerides;
  • tanning agents;
  • vitamins A and C;
  • fructose, sucrose, glucose.

The plant's essential oil is extracted from its seeds. It has many useful properties, therefore it is used for the treatment of dermatological diseases, as well as in aromatherapy.

Cilantro leaves contain a large number of trace elements, enriched with calcium, iodine, phosphorus.

Useful properties

The use of coriander has a beneficial effect on the human body. It has such useful properties:

  1. Treatment of anemia. Cilantro improves blood composition, enriches iron, copper, phosphorus. Reduces the level of glucose and increases such an indicator as hemoglobin.
  2. Cleansing the body. The plant removes toxins and other harmful substances from the body.
  3. Treatment of arthritis. Removes inflammation in the joint tissues.
  4. Improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Cilantro promotes more active production of gastric juice, increases appetite, eliminates meteorisms.
  5. Normalization of the hormonal background. The use of the plant improves the functioning of the endocrine system, so that the menstrual cycle is restored in women, and men have an erectile function.
  6. Treatment of inflammatory processes in the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. Cilantro has an antiseptic effect, therefore it eliminates such diseases as stomatitis, bleeding gums, and also used as a prevention of the appearance of caries.
  7. Treatment of dermatological diseases. Restores skin in allergic manifestations in the form of inflammation, flaking, itching, rashes.
  8. Treatment of colds. Coriander is useful in bronchitis, sore throat, dry and damp cough.
  9. Excretion of helminths from the body. Helps to eliminate diseases caused by the appearance of parasites in the human body.

In addition to the above properties, this spicy plant strengthens the walls of the vessels, thereby improving the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Coriander helps to reduce high blood pressure and intraocular pressure, due to its diuretic effect.

It's important to know! Before using coriander for medicinal purposes, consult a specialist! This will help to avoid side effects and consequences, since this plant has some contraindications.

The use of coriander in cooking

What are coriander leaves added to? Fresh leaves of cilantro can be used and in its pure form. Also it is used for cooking salads, dishes from fish and meat. Also, resourceful housewives add spice to their workpieces for the winter. Therefore, tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergines and others, preserved at home, vegetables have a more rich and original taste.

Preparation of various sauces, dressings and snacks is not without the cilantro for many professional chefs. Cilantro leaves are used both in fresh form and after drying.

Seeds of coriander are also actively used at the time of cooking a variety of dishes. With what they eat? Usually, to give a more intense taste, the dish is ground with coriander. In addition to meat and fish dishes, this spice is added to rolls, muffins, pies and other confectionery.

It's important to know! In some countries, coriander seeds are even added to drinks!

Parsley or coriander: what is more useful

These kinds of herbs are known for their rich vitamins and other useful substances for almost every modern person. What is more useful: parsley or coriander? Comparative characteristics do not make any sense, as parsley also has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular, endocrine, digestive, genito-urinary system. The only difference is that cilantro is contraindicated for use by women during pregnancy. As for parsley, there is no such restriction. This greens when bearing a baby can be consumed in unlimited quantities without negative consequences.

The visual similarity of parsley and cilantro is observed by almost everyone. How to distinguish these plants. Visually, coriander has pointed leaves, unlike parsley. Also, coriander has a sharper flavor and a bright taste, which can not be confused with anything.

Coriander: how to replace

Seeds of this plant have a specific flavor, so they are actively used for cooking home recipes. How to replace this spice, if it was not at home? For a harmonious dish, combinations of such spicy spices can be used:

  • cumin;
  • rosemary;
  • flaxseed;
  • cardamom;
  • ground nutmeg;
  • cinnamon;
  • fennel;
  • turmeric;
  • yellow mustard;
  • paprika.

The above spices can be added to the dishes either one at a time or combined. After all, every mistress likes to experiment for a varied diet of family members.

Contraindications to the use of coriander

The use of this plant is strictly prohibited for women during pregnancy. Excessive amounts of cilantro in the body can lead to premature birth or miscarriage. Coriander is also contraindicated in people with such diseases:

  • ischemic heart disease;
  • gastritis with increased acidity of gastric juice;
  • increased blood clotting;
  • decreased blood pressure.

In such situations, the plant can worsen the condition and aggravate the course of the disease. Also with caution should eat coriander people with kidney failure, because it has a diuretic effect.

As for women who are dieting, trying to lose weight, they should also refrain from eating cilantro. After all, it causes appetite as a result of active secretion of gastric juice.

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