Coriander Seeds: 8 Health Benefits

You may known coriander as cilantro or Chinese parsley. The fresh leaves of the coriander herb are referred to as cilantro. The dried seeds of the coriander herb, known as coriander seeds, are often used as a cooking spice. Coriander seeds health benefits stem from their antimicrobial, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Coriander Seeds Health Benefits

1. Lower Blood Sugar

Coriander seeds health benefits include the ability to lower blood sugar levels. They help stimulate the secretion of insulin to lower blood sugar and naturally treat diabetes. Apply 2-3 drops of coriander essential oil mixed with a carrier oil to the soles of the feet to help lower glucose levels. (1)

2. Ease Digestive Problems

Coriander seeds health benefits include the ability to ease digestive discomfort. Research has shown that coriander works like an antispasmodic drug to relax contracted digestive muscles. By relaxing these muscles, coriander works to relieve discomfort caused by irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders.

3. Decrease Blood Pressure

Studies have shown that coriander seeds health benefits include the ability to lower blood pressure levels. Consuming the spice on a regular basis also has a diuretic effect on the body. It works to treat high blood pressure and reduce the risk of health conditions including blood clots and strokes. (2)

4. Fight Food Poisoning

Coriander seeds health benefits include the ability to fight food poisoning. Studies have shown that coriander's powerful antimicrobial properties can help protect the body against food-borne pathogens, including salmonella. (3)

5. Improve Cholesterol Levels

Research has shown that coriander seeds health benefits include improved cholesterol levels. Consuming coriander on a daily basis can help decrease LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels. By naturally improving cholesterol levels, coriander seeds help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis. (4)

6. Help Heal UTI's

Coriander seeds health benefits include the ability to help heal urinary tract infections. Soak 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried coriander seeds in two cups of water overnight. Strain and drink in the morning, or add the seeds to a morning smoothie. The seeds will help relieve pain and discomfort associated with UTI's.

7. Support Healthy Menstruation

By helping to regulate the function of the endocrine gland, coriander seeds health benefits include the ability to support healthy menstrual function. Coriander seeds help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce bloating, cramps and menstrual pain. They are often used in Ayurvedic medicine to help relieve menstrual problems and regulate a woman's cycle.

8. Help Prevent Neurological Disease

Coriander seeds health benefits include the prevention of neurological inflammation and disease. A study published in the journal Molecular Neurobiology found that diets high in spices, including turmeric, pepper, clove, ginger, garlic, cinnamon and coriander, help target inflammatory pathways. The spices work to reduce inflammation in the brain and prevent neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and brain tumors. (5)