Health Benefits of Coriander Seeds

Coriander, the aromatic herb, is a powerhouse of antioxidants with multiple health perks. Coming from the Coriandrum sativum plant, it is closely related to parsley, carrots, and celery in the botanical family. Lowering blood sugars, fighting infections, and promoting heart, brain, skin, and digestive health are among its many virtues.

People add coriander to soups, salsas, and dishes in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines, such as curries and masalas. The leaves are used whole, and the seeds are dried or ground.

This article explores the health benefits of coriander seeds and the ways in which you can include this ancient spice in your diet. So, let us start!

Nutritional Value of Coriander Seeds

The simplest way to know about the health benefits of coriander seed is to look at its nutritional value.

This table covers the nutrient contents per 100 gm of coriander seeds.

You will get 298 Kcal of energy from 100 grams of coriander seeds.

Health Benefits of Coriander Seeds

Packed with several nutrients, coriander seeds have many health benefits that are listed below-

1. Can improve blood sugar regulation

High blood sugar raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Coriander seeds, extract, and essences may help lower such sugar levels. Caution is advised for those with low blood sugar or on diabetes medication, as coriander may significantly lower blood sugar levels.

2. Boost immunity with antioxidants

Coriander is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

3. May have a positive effect on heart health

Coriander may help protect your heart by lowering blood pressure and reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL or good cholesterol. Including plenty of spices in your diet reduces the risk of heart disease.

4. Maintains brain health

Coriander's anti-inflammatory properties may protect against brain disorders. In a study on rats, coriander demonstrated potential in protecting nerve cells from seizues. The result indicated coriander’s potential in anxiety management comparable to Diazepam in animal studies. However, human research is needed for further confirmation.

5. Support for digestion and gut health

Coriander seed oil can promote and support good digestion, alleviating discomfort such as bloating often experienced by individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The seed oil may also enhance appetite in certain individuals and help relieve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

6. Combat infections

Coriander contains antimicrobial compounds that may assist in fighting infections and foodborne illnesses, including Salmonella. In a test-tube study, coriander seeds, along with other Indian spices, were found effective against bacteria causing urinary tract infections.

7. Nurture skin health

One of the health benefits of coriander seeds is that they take care of the skin, addressing mild rashes, including dermatitis. Some use coriander leaf juice for skin conditions such as acne, pigmentation, oiliness, or dryness. However, research on these uses is limited at the moment.

8. Easy to include in your diet

While every part of the Coriandrum sativum plant is edible, its seeds and leaves have distinct flavours. Coriander seeds have an earthy taste (used in baked goods, veggies, etc.,), while the leaves, also called cilantro, have an intense, citrus-like flavour, perfect for garnishing salads, noodle dishes, and so on. 

How to Consume Coriander Seeds?

Coriander is a staple ingredient in Indian and Asian cuisines. There are many simple ways in which you can add these seeds to your daily routine-

1.  Coriander Tea: Boil a tablespoon of grounded coriander seeds for 10 minutes, strain, and enjoy a detoxifying and energising tea that aids digestion.

2. Infused Water: Soak a teaspoon of coriander seeds overnight in water and drink the water after straining in the morning on an empty stomach to regulate sugar levels and boost metabolism.

3. Powdered Coriander: Take a few coriander seeds, roast them, and grind them into a powder. Use this powder to spice your soups, curries, and stews.

4. Herbal Remedies: Coriander seeds can be combined with other spices, such as fennel and cumin, to create teas and infused water that helps with cramps, bloating, and other stomach-related issues.

5. Cooking with Coriander: You can add whole coriander or its powder to your bread, roasts, and pickles for added taste and health benefits.

Conclusion

With its pleasant aroma and abundant antioxidants, coriander is a versatile herb known for its culinary use and health-promoting properties. While following a healthy diet, including beneficial spices, fruits, and vegetables, can help you stay healthy, having a health insurance policy is also essential to deal with unforeseen medical emergencies.  It provides access to quality healthcare for a resilient and worry-free life.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.