Cilantro is a fragrant herb commonly used in Central American, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. In the United States, cilantro refers to the leaves and stems of the Coriandrum sativum plant, while the seeds are called coriander. In many cultures, the word coriander can refer to any part of the plant.
Health Benefits
Like many culinary herbs, cilantro has been used medicinally since ancient times. Modern research methods are finding support for some of the health claims attributed to this plant.
Some health benefits of cilantro may include:
Brain Health
Although further research is still needed, several studies have connected eating cilantro with reduced symptoms of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
In one study, cilantro extract reduced seizure attacks and prevented nerve-cell damage in rats.In another, when fresh cilantro leaves were added to the diets of laboratory mice, scientists saw improvements in their memory.
Reduced Anxiety
In animal studies, extracts from the cilantro plant have proven almost as effective as medication at reducing anxiety symptoms. Studies with human subjects are still needed.
Blood Sugar Management
Cilantro is so well-known for its ability to lower blood sugar that people with low blood sugar or those taking diabetes medications are warned to be careful with the herb.
In animal studies, coriander seeds reduced blood sugar by stimulating an enzyme that removes sugar from the blood.
In another study, cilantro extract decreased blood sugar in rats with obesity and high blood sugar. The effects were similar to the blood sugar medication glibenclamide.
Prevent Foodborne Illnesses
The cilantro plant contains dodecenal, an antimicrobial compound that may help protect your body against infections and illnesses caused by tainted food. The compound is effective against Salmonella, a microbe that can cause life-threatening food poisoning.
Another study found that compounds in cilantro are effective against several bacteria, including those that cause foodborne illnesses and hospital-acquired infections.
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