This is a strongly aromatic annual herb that grows about a metre in height. It is native to Europe and Western Asia, but is now naturalised in North America and cultivated all around the world. The Persians grew this herb over 3,000 years ago and used it to add fragrance to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Both seed and leaf are used in herbal medicine.
Medicinal Properties of Coriander
The herb contains a variety of compounds including volatile oil, sterols and phenolic acids. It is a stimulant, carminative (wind relieving) and warming.
Coriander Herbal Remedies
Historically coriander has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
Aerophagy (constant desire to swallow air)
Colic
Flatulence
Gastroenteritis
Hypoglycaemia
Measles
Nausea
Piles
Poor digestion
Toothache
Other Coriander Information
The leaves or seeds can be made into a herbal tea, and the leaves may be added to salads to give a peppery flavour. Essential oil is also available for use in aromatherapy and may assist with arthritic and rheumatic pain. It should though be diluted into a base oil such as almond at a ratio of 1:10.
Side Effects of Coriander
At the time of writing there are no well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications from using coriander.
Leave a reply to Herb Coriander (Coriandrum sativa)