The benefits of coriander, its most important uses, and the difference between coriander and parsley

coriander

Cilantro comes from the herb coriander plant (same family as parsley and celery). It has many names, including: coriander, coriander, or coriander. It is considered native to North Africa and Asia. However, it is grown all over the world, where its leaves and seeds have many uses, whether in cooking or for its health benefits. So, through this article, we will get to know you The benefits of corianderThe difference between coriander and parsley.

The nutritional value of coriander

Coriander contains many vitamins and minerals such as:

One of the benefits of coriander is that one cup of it (approximately 16 g) contains:

  • Fat: 0.083 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0.587 g
  • Protein: 0.341 g
  • Calories in coriander: 3.68

Also read: What are the risks of protein deficiency and excess?

Uses of cilantro

Coriander is used to add flavor to many dishes and drinks. It is famous for its use in Mexican and Thai dishes. Coriander leaves can be eaten fresh or roasted or ground coriander seeds can be used.

Among its most popular uses in cooking:

  • Dishes containing beans, cheese and eggs
  • fish dishes
  • Soups and salads such as coriander and mint salad
  • Coriander pesto sauce
  • Cooked lentil dishes
  • Pickled and grilled vegetable dishes
  • Rice and pasta dishes
  • curry dishes
  • It is used in various types of stuffing, such as grape leaves and cabbage
  • Coriander seeds are used in making some baked goods
  • They can be used pureed with some other toppings like garlic and lemon juice to make salsa, marinade, or burrito paste.

The benefits of coriander

Coriander has many health benefits because it is a rich source of minerals and vitamins. Examples of these benefits are:

1. Boost the immune system

Coriander is a rich source of antioxidants such as terpinene, quercetin, and tocopherols, which fight free radicals, help prevent cell damage, fight infections, and boost immunity. One study also found that the antioxidants in coriander seeds helped slow the growth of lung cancer cells, prostate and breast cancer, and colon cancer.

2. Treating pain and inflammation

A 2015 laboratory study found that coriander seeds can be used as an effective analgesic against pain and inflammation. They contain anti-inflammatory properties and antimicrobial compounds, which may also help fight off some foodborne infections such as salmonella and urinary tract bacteria.

3. Protect brain health

One of the benefits of coriander is that eating it helps reduce the risk of many brain diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. As it contains anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Lowering the level of sugar in the blood

A laboratory study found that extracts, oils and seeds of coriander may help reduce blood sugar levels and increase insulin secretion. So it may be good for type 2 diabetes patients, who suffer from high blood sugar. As for people who suffer from low blood sugar, they should be careful when eating coriander.

Also read: Cholesterol treatment, your way to protect your heart

5. Promote heart health

Some laboratory studies have shown that eating coriander seeds has helped reduce the risk of heart disease such as high blood pressure and high levels of harmful cholesterol. On the other hand, it helped increase beneficial cholesterol, and coriander extract acts as a diuretic, which helps the body expel sodium and excess water, which may lead to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

6. Skin protection

One of the benefits of green coriander is also that its antioxidant properties help reduce cell damage and skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays.

7. The benefits of coriander for slimming

Coriander extracts help lose weight, as coriander leaves contain quercetin, which helps speed up metabolism, get rid of excess toxins, and thus feel comfortable, which helps in losing weight.

Benefits of coriander juice

It is common to use coriander leaf juice to remove excess toxins from the body, lower bad cholesterol levels, and treat mouth ulcers. It is also used in some cultures to treat some skin conditions such as acne, pigmentation or dryness, but there is not enough research on these uses.

How to make coriander juice

the components:

  • A handful of coriander leaves equal to a palmful
  • 200 ml of water
  • Half a teaspoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

How to prepare:

  • Clean and chop coriander leaves
  • Heat the water in a pot at a medium temperature
  • Add the coriander leaves and leave for about 10 minutes until it boils
  • Strain the coriander water
  • Add lemon and salt and mix well
  • It is best served in an insulated metal cup

The difference between coriander and parsley

Distinguishing between cilantro and parsley is one of the most difficult things to buy due to the many similarities between them. However, there are some differences that can help distinguish between the two plants when buying or using in cooking.

1. Color and shape

Coriander leaves are dark green with sharper serrations and rounded shapes. In contrast, the leaves of parsley are characterized by a bright green color and wrinkled shapes.

2. Aroma and flavour

A distinction can be made between coriander and parsley, as coriander has a stronger flavor and aroma than parsley. While the flavor of parsley is mild and herbal.

3. Seeds

Coriander seeds (dry coriander) are spherical in shape and are used to add flavor to foods. Parsley seeds are oval in shape and their oils are used for medicinal purposes.

4. Leaves and roots

All parts of coriander leaves, seeds and roots are edible, while only the leaves and roots of parsley are used for eating.