13/11/2020
CORIANDER
Coriander is an herb that’s commonly used to flavor international dishes. It comes from the Coriandrum sativum plant and is related to parsley, carrots, and celery. In the United States, Coriandrum sativum seeds are called coriander, while its leaves are called cilantro. In other parts of the world, they’re called coriander seeds and coriander leaves. The plant is also known as Chinese parsley.
Many people use coriander in dishes like soups and salsas, as well as Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian meals like curries and masalas. Coriander leaves are often used whole, whereas the seeds are used dried or ground.
We, in Sri Lankan (Ceylon Style) make the Coriander Tea also known as Koththamalli.
Step 1. Wash and drain the coriander seeds,
Step2. Lightly dry roast (avoid roasting it too long as you will end up with a bitter tasting tea) the seeds for approximately five minutes (to bring out the essential oils, aroma and flavor).
Step3. Add water allow to simmer, until the amount of water has reduced by half.
Step 4. Strain and pour into drinking glasses - serve hot/warm.
Step 5. Add juggery, or honey to sweeten, according to individual's taste.
8 impressive health benefits of consuming coriander.
1. May help lower blood sugar
High blood sugar is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Coriander seeds, extract, and oils may all help lower blood sugar. In fact, people who have low blood sugar or take diabetes medication should practice caution with coriander because it’s so effective in lowering blood sugar (not controlling Diabetes).
Though coriander seeds reduce blood sugar by promoting enzyme and been used in traditional medication, yet to be (western) medically approved.
Individuals with lower blood sugar levels should be cautions when consuming.
2. Rich in immune-boosting antioxidants
Coriander offers several antioxidants, which prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals. Its antioxidants have been shown to fight inflammation in the body.
These compounds include terpinene, quercetin, and tocopherols, which may have anticancer (antioxidants in coriander seed extract lowered inflammation and slowed the growth of lung, prostate, breast, and colon cancer cells), immune-boosting, and neuroprotective effects, according to certain studies.
3. May benefit heart health
Coriander extract appears to act as a diuretic, helping your body flush excess sodium and water. This may lower blood pressure, helps reduce sodium intake which in turn may lower heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol level and an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol.
4. May protect brain health
Coriander’s anti-inflammatory properties may safeguard against diseases in the likes of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and multiple sclerosis, are associated with inflammation and protected against nerve-cell damage following drug-induced seizures, likely due to its antioxidant properties
5. May promote digestion and gut health
Coriander extract is used as an appetite stimulant in traditional Iranian medicine. One rat study noted that it increased appetite.
Coriander may reduce unpleasant digestive symptoms like bloating and discomfort often experienced by people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
6. May fight infections
Coriander contains antimicrobial compounds that may help fight certain infections and foodborne illnesses.
Dodecenal, a compound in coriander, may fight bacteria like Salmonella, which can cause life-threatening food poisoning and affect 1.2 million people annually in the United States.
Additionally, coriander seeds are among several Indian spices that can fight the bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
7. May protect your skin
Coriander may have several skin benefits, including for mild rashes like dermatitis.
The antioxidants in coriander extract may help prevent cellular damage that can lead to accelerated skin aging, as well as skin damage from ultraviolet B radiation.
Furthermore, many people utilize coriander leaf juice for skin conditions like acne, pigmentation, oiliness, or dryness.
8. Easy to add to your diet
All parts of the Coriandrum sativum plant are edible, but its seeds and leaves taste very different. While coriander seeds have an earthy flavor, the leaves are pungent and citrus-like.
Meanwhile, coriander leaves — also called cilantro — are best to garnish soup or use in cold pasta salads, lentils, fresh tomato salsa, or Thai noodle dishes.
