The Amazing Health Benefits of Coriander Seed
Coriander Seed: Nature’s Hidden Gem for Health
You’ve probably used coriander seed in your cooking before, sprinkling them into curries or grinding them up to make coriander powder. But did you know those little seeds are packed with amazing health benefits? Coriander seeds have been used for thousands of years as a medicinal herb, and with good reason. They’re loaded with antioxidants and compounds that can help with digestion, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and even memory.
Health Benefits of Coriander Seed
Coriander seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition. Here are some of the amazing health benefits these little seeds offer:
They’re loaded with antioxidants. Coriander seeds contain compounds like coriandrin, dihydrocoriandrin, and coriandrol that act as antioxidants. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in your body that can damage cells.
They may lower cholesterol. Coriander seeds contain certain acids that can help reduce cholesterol levels. Consuming just a few grams of coriander seeds regularly can help decrease total cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol, which is great for heart health.
They improve digestion. Coriander seeds have compounds like borneol and linalool that can help ease digestion and relieve symptoms like bloating or cramps. The seeds also act as a diuretic and can help flush toxins out of your system.
They fight infections. Coriander seeds have antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties thanks to compounds like cineole, limonene, alpha-pinene, and beta-phellandrene. Consuming coriander seeds regularly can help you avoid infections and may even help treat some infections.
They boost immunity. The antioxidants and antimicrobial effects of coriander seeds also help boost your immunity. Compounds in the seeds may help protect against oxidative stress and damage to immune cells. Coriander seeds are great for overall health and wellness.
Sprinkle a few coriander seeds on your salads, yogurt or oatmeal to reap the benefits of this amazing super-spice. The seeds have an earthy, citrusy flavor that complements both sweet and savory foods. Your body and taste buds will thank you!
How to Use Coriander Seeds in Your Diet
Coriander seeds have been used for centuries in cuisines around the world, and for good reason. They have an amazing range of health benefits when added to your diet.
Coriander seeds can help improve your digestion. Chew on a few seeds after a meal to increase production of digestive enzymes and ease gas and bloating. You can also boil a few seeds in water to make coriander seed tea. Drink a cup of the tea before or after meals to help relieve digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome.
The seeds are great for your heart and cholesterol levels. They contain antioxidants that can help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol while raising “good” HDL cholesterol. Sprinkling some ground coriander seeds on your food a few times a week may help reduce plaque buildup in your arteries over time.
Coriander seeds can help control blood sugar levels. Adding the seeds to your diet may help stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin and lower blood glucose levels. Try adding a teaspoon of ground coriander to yogurt or oatmeal a few times a week.
The seeds have antimicrobial properties and can freshen your breath. Chewing on a few coriander seeds can help reduce bacteria in your mouth that lead to bad breath. The seeds have a distinctive flavor, so you may want to rinse your mouth with water after chewing them.
With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why coriander seeds have stood the test of time. Give them a try in your cooking and reap the rewards of better health and wellness. Your body will thank you!
Coriander Seed Recipes to Try
Coriander seeds have been used for centuries in cuisines around the world for their warm, nutty flavor. Here are a few simple recipes to try so you can experience the amazing health benefits of this flavorful spice.
Coriander Seed Tea
Coriander seed tea is an easy way to tap into the medicinal properties of coriander. Simply combine one tablespoon of crushed coriander seeds with four cups of boiled water. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes, then strain out the seeds. You can add a bit of honey for sweetness if desired. Drink this tea up to three times a day to aid digestion, ease anxiety and insomnia, and help detox your body.
Coriander Pesto Pasta
For a quick and delicious pasta dish, make coriander pesto pasta. Combine one cup fresh cilantro, 1/2 cup coriander seeds, 3 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup olive oil, and salt to taste in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Toss with cooked pasta such as linguine or fettuccine and top with parmesan cheese, sliced almonds or sunflower seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This pasta is bursting with flavor and the coriander provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
Coriander Roasted Carrots
To make a healthy side dish, toss carrots in coriander and roast them. Peel and slice 2-3 carrots into sticks. Toss with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp coriander seeds (crushed), salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast at 400 F for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are tender and lightly browned. The earthy, citrus notes of the coriander pair perfectly with the natural sweetness of carrots.
• Add coriander seeds to marinades and rubs for meat like lamb, pork or fish before grilling.
• Make coriander chutney or salsa to serve with Indian dishes like samosas.
• Add a teaspoon of crushed coriander seeds to muffin, cake or cookie batter.
• Season yogurt or whipped cream with a bit of coriander, honey and lemon zest.
With its unique flavor and aroma, coriander seeds are a simple way to spice up your diet and your health. Try a few of these recipes and you’ll be reaping the nutritional benefits of this amazing seed in no time.
Where to Buy Coriander Seed
Once you’ve discovered the amazing health benefits of coriander seeds, you’ll want to add them to your diet right away. But where can you find these flavorful little seeds? Here are some of the best places to buy coriander seeds:
Your local grocery store or supermarket – Many larger grocery stores now have bulk spice sections where you can find whole coriander seeds. Look for seeds that are whole, dried, and still aromatic. The fresher the better, so check the ‘best by’ date.
Health food stores – Natural health food stores, co-ops and organic markets are great places to find high-quality coriander seeds, often at lower prices. These stores specialize in natural, whole ingredients so you’re more likely to find seeds that haven’t been irradiated or treated with chemicals.
Ethnic grocery stores – Indian, Middle Eastern and Asian markets frequently carry a wide selection of whole spices, including coriander seeds. The seeds may be labeled as ‘dhania’ or ‘cilantro’ in these stores. The prices are usually very affordable too.
Online retailers – If stores in your area don’t carry coriander seeds or you want to shop from the comfort of home, many trusted online retailers offer coriander seeds for sale. Some recommended online sources include:
• Green Lanka on eBay – They sell high-quality organic coriander seeds for a reasonable price. They’re also a reputable supplier of herbs and spices.
• RuVi Green – A popular online spice retailer that offers non-GMO coriander seeds, as well as coriander seed powder and ground coriander.
• Ruvigreen – They provide certified organic coriander seeds in various sizes, from 4 oz bags up to 25 lb bulk bags for the avid seed enthusiast!
• Etsy – You can find coriander seeds from various brands on Amazon, just be sure to check reviews to ensure freshness and quality. Look for sellers that specialize in spices.
The key is to buy from a reputable retailer, whether online or in a store, to ensure you’re getting fresh, food-grade coriander seeds. Check the ‘best by’ date and store your seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Enjoy adding these nutritious seeds to your favorite foods and drinks!
Conclusion
So next time you’re cooking up something tasty, don’t overlook the coriander seeds. They may be small, but these flavorful little seeds pack a nutritional punch and come with a host of health benefits. Not only do they add flavor to your food, but they can help regulate blood sugar, improve digestion, strengthen your bones, and even fight inflammation. Coriander seeds are one of those super spices that deserve a spot in your kitchen cabinet and a place in your cooking routine. Give them a try—your body will thank you for it.
