Latin Name: Coriandrum sativum
Herb Class/Action: Cilantro is classified as an herb and is known for its culinary uses as well as its medicinal properties.
Parts of Plant Used: Both the leaves (cilantro) and the seeds (coriander) of the Coriandrum sativum plant are used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Flavors: Cilantro leaves have a bright, citrusy flavor with hints of parsley and citrus, while coriander seeds have a warm, citrusy, slightly nutty flavor.
Energetics: Cilantro is considered cooling and refreshing.
Medicinal Properties:
- Digestive Aid: Cilantro has been used traditionally to support digestive health. It contains compounds that may help stimulate digestive enzymes, improve appetite, and relieve indigestion and bloating.
- Antioxidant: Cilantro is rich in antioxidants such as quercetin, tocopherols, and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Detoxifying: Cilantro may have mild detoxifying properties and has been traditionally used to support the body's natural detoxification processes. It may help remove heavy metals and toxins from the body.
- Anti-inflammatory: Cilantro contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as linalool and borneol, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions.
In the Garden: Cilantro is an annual herb that thrives in cool weather. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. Cilantro can be grown from seeds directly sown in the garden or started indoors and transplanted. It is a fast-growing herb and tends to bolt (produce flowers and go to seed) in hot weather, so it is best to sow cilantro seeds in succession for a continuous harvest.
Culinary Uses: Cilantro is a popular culinary herb used in various cuisines around the world, particularly in Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian dishes. It is commonly used fresh as a garnish or chopped and added to salads, salsas, guacamole, curries, soups, and sauces. Cilantro leaves can also be used to flavor marinades, dressings, and rice dishes. Coriander seeds are used as a spice and can be ground and added to spice blends, pickling brines, and baked goods.
Precautions: Some people may have an aversion to the taste of cilantro due to genetic factors that make it taste soapy or unpleasant to them. Additionally, cilantro contains certain volatile compounds that may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. People with known allergies to other members of the Apiaceae family (such as fennel, parsley, or carrots) may also be allergic to cilantro. As with any food or herbal remedy, it's important to consume cilantro in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
