CORIANDER : Coriandrum sativum
Coriander is a small annual plant that has been cultivated for several millenniums and is still grown in North and South America, Europe and the Mediterranean countries. Coriander has been used as a flavoring and medicine since ancient times. Seeds have been found in the tombs of Pharohs, and the Roman legions carried coriander as they progressed through Europe, using it to flavor their bread.
Characteristics: The fresh herb and unripe fruit has a bug-like smell, ripe fruit has a pleasant tangy smell and taste.
Properties and UsesThe fruits of coriander are: alterative, antibilious, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, appetizer, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, refrigerant, stimulant, stomachic, tonic. Fresh leaves (Cilantro) are pungent and aromatic.
Coriander can be applied externally for rheumatism and painful joints. It improves the flavor of other medicinal preparations. At one time it was believed to have aphrodisiac effects. Chinese herbalists use coriander seeds to treat indigestion and anorexia, Chinese herbalists suggests that coriander herb can be used to treat influenza in which there is no sweating.
Chinese Folk medicine uses coriander leaves and seeds to help remove unpleasant odors occurring in the genital areas of men and women, as well as halitosis or bad breath.
Health Tip: Coriander is also used traditionally for digestive and gastric complaints as well as for coughs, chest pains, bladder complaints, leprosy rash, fever, dysentery, externally for headaches, oral and pharyngeal disorders, halitosis, and post- partal complications.
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