Botanical Overview
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is a flowering plant in the Apiaceae family. This plant has earned a place in traditional medicine through its consistent therapeutic benefits, recorded across multiple cultures. The carrot family (Apiaceae) includes herbs with hollow stems, alternate leaves, and distinctive umbrella-shaped flower clusters called umbels. Many species have aromatic roots and seeds used as culinary spices and medicines. The family includes both nutritious vegetables and highly toxic species.
General Description
The leaves are known as cilantro in the US. Most people perceive the leaves as having a fresh, slightly citrus taste. Due to variations in the gene OR6A2, some people perceive its flavor to be more soaplike or rotten.
Family Context
The Apiaceae family is widely distributed in temperate regions. Notable medicinal members include:
- Fennel — 60 documented uses
- Gotu Kola — 41 documented uses
- Ajwan — 41 documented uses
- Celery — 40 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Coriander has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Belgium, China, Germany, Spain, France, and others.
Traditional Uses
Coriander has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and urinary tract health, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Carminative
- Stomachic
- Ache(Stomach)
- Dysentery
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Pectoral
- Cough
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Urinary tract health.
- Diuretic
Urinary tract applications typically involve drinking the herb as a mild tea, which increases urine production and helps flush the urinary system. It may be combined with other demulcent herbs to soothe irritated tissues.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities