Coriander or Cilantro: Uses and Benefits for Skin and Health

Coriander, commonly known as hara dhaniya in local terms and Coriandrum sativum in scientific terms, is an aromatic herb native to Southern Europe and Western Asia. It is also popular as cilantro or Chinese parsley. It is the most versatile ingredient and every part of it is edible. The coriander leaves are used for garnishing and other culinary purposes. According to a Bangalore-based nutritionist Anju Sood, “Coriander is a natural aphrodisiac, a great source of dietary fiber, magnesium and iron.”Call it as wonder herb, coriander is a package of eleven essential oils, six types of acid and lots of mineral and vitamins with many beneficial properties. According to USDA, a 100 gm of coriander has 3.6 gm of carbohydrate, 2.08 gm of protein, 2.50 mg vitamin E, 27 mg vitamin C, 310 mg vitamin K, 055 mg pantothenic acid and more.Health Benefits of Coriander1. Controls Blood PressureExperts often recommend coriander salad to patients suffering from hypertension. It consists of calcium ions which interact with cholinergic (a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system) to reduce chances of cardiovascular conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.
 2. Good for the Stomach Leaves of coriander provide relief from digestive problems and nausea. They guide the digestive system to produce more digestive enzymes and juices in order to prevent a queasy stomach. They are a good source of fibre too.3. Could Improve EyesightOne of the many health benefits of coriander is sharp eyesight. The components in coriander (Phosphorus, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Antioxidants) help in the prevention of vision disorders and also reducing stress on the eye. One of its magical quality is that it helps in reversing vision degenerative effects in aging patients due to the presence of b-carotene. It also helps in prevention of infections like conjunctivitis and is used in the making of many eye- related medicines.
 4. Improves Mouth HealthDid you know that before toothpaste came into being, people used to chew on coriander seeds to get rid of bad breath? Coriander is one ingredient which is used in antiseptic toothpastes and essential oils since it contains a component called Citronelol, which works as an excellent antiseptic. Other benefits offered by other components include healing effects, which prevent ulcers and wounds in the mouth from getting worse.
 5. Boosts Healthy BonesCoriander is recommended for people who suffer from diseases like osteoporosis. People who want to focus on their bone health should include coriander in their daily diets since it contains calcium along with other minerals (specifically present in the center part of the leaves), which help with bone regrowth, durability and prevention of bone degradation.6. Reduces Menstrual Cramps
 Cilantro seeds are a source of ascorbic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid and steric acid. Consuming such acids support the proper secretion of hormones. Thus, it will lead to proper menstrual cycle and less pain. It works as a natural stimulant. Soak coriander seeds overnight in water and consume next morning for maximum benefits.7. Good Source of AntioxidantsCoriander has antioxidant properties. The presence of quercetin (antioxidant), vitamin C and iron strengthen body’s immune system. According to a study of Molecular Neurobiology, diets high in coriander helped target inflammatory pathways and prevent neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, it may help to prevent alzheimer, cancer, small pox and diabetes. 8. An Anti-Allergic Herb
 This herb is anti-allergic too. Coriander contains an anti-bacterial compound in it called Dodecenal that kills the Salmonella bacteria. Dodecenal helps to improve oral health too. Thus, it can provide a relief for infections caused by fungus or bacteria.9. Regulates CholesterolIn today’s time, every other person is suffering from bad cholesterol. This herb can actually help you to increase the level of good cholesterol (HDL) and reduce bad cholesterol (LDL).Coriander Benefits for Healthy SkinOther than health, fresh coriander is an effective treatment for beauty-related problems. Here are some-1. Reduce Acne and Blackhead
 You don’t have to go through those painful procedures to get rid of acne and blackheads. All you need is some coriander. Applying the paste of coriander leaves and lime juice can reduce acne and blackheads.Uses: Take 1 tsp of coriander paste along with 1 tsp of lime juice. Massage the mixture on the affected area and wash it with cold water after an hour.2. Controls Oily SkinCilantro has the tendency to absorb oil from your face. The leaves also have antioxidant, anti-fungal, antiseptic and disinfectant properties that help in clearing up your skin from many problems. Vitamin C in its leaves helps in maintaining smooth skin. Uses: Apply fresh coriander juice for about an hour directly on your face. You can also mix coriander leaves with milk to make a thick paste and apply it for 15 minutes.
 3. Reduces WrinklesWhy should we stop looking young right? Cilantro leaves will do the favour for you. It is highly rich in vitamin A which fights free radicals and thus prevents many signs of ageing such as pigmentation, wrinkles, loose skin.Uses: Make a paste of ground coriander and aloe vera gel, or mix coriander and rice together in order to get a grainy paste. Rice will help to remove the dead cells and coriander will help to rejuvenate cells quickly. Apply the paste for 15 minutes.4. Luscious LipsWhy to waste money on chemical and processed lip balms when you can remove the dead skin from the lips and keep them luscious? Yes, coriander can help with that.Uses: Prepare your own coriander lip balm. Take 2 tsp coriander juice and 1 tsp lemon juice. Apply it before going to sleep daily for a week or so. 
 Call it cilantro , coriander or dhaniya, this spice cum herb deserves a better place in your kitchen. Its refreshing aroma will force you to use it almost in everything, plus it is cheap and easily available. So go and try some new recipes with coriander! Disclaimer:The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.