Cilantro (Spanish word for coriander or Chinese parsley) is a native to regions spanning from southern Europe and North Africa to southwestern Asia. All parts of the plant are edible, but the fresh leaves and the dried seeds are the parts most traditionally used in cooking.
Cilantro has proven anti-anxiety effects and is used in the treatment of insomnia. Studies have also reported its effectiveness in lowering blood glucose.
Cilantro seed oil possesses anti-oxidative properties slowing down the process of cell degeneration. As a dietary fiber, it helps reduce LDL (“bad” cholesterol) while increasing HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels.
Cilantro in Chelation Treatment
Chelation therapy is the use of chelating agents to detoxify the human body from poisonous metal agents such as mercury, arsenic, and lead.
According to Dr. Yoshiaki Omura, President and Founder of the International College of Acupuncture & Electro-Therapeutics, even small amounts of mercury, used extensively in tooth fillings, have long term health consequences. One of the remedies include detoxification, with a recommended dose of 2 tablespoons daily of a Cilantro pesto, for about three weeks. Some even recommend taking chlorella with the cilantro, noting that chlorella helps to bind the mercury and flush it out.
Cilantro for Insulin Control
The January 2011 issue of “Indian Journal of Experimental Biology” reported on a study that coriander seeds lower blood sugar and insulin levels.
The study noted that 200 milligrams of coriander seed extract per 2 ½ pounds of body weight significantly reduced blood sugar and increased insulin release from the pancreas.
Cilantro’s Vitamin and Mineral Content
The herb is a good source of minerals including potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium, therefore making this herb a heart healthy food.
Studies show that 100 grams of cilantro contains:
- 15% of folates,
- 11% of vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine),
- 45% of vitamin C,
- 225% of vitamin A,
- 258% of vitamin K,
- 22% of iron and
- 18% of manganese
Other benefits:
Anti-septic: All parts of the cilantro, including the leaves, roots, and stems have been found to have anti-septic effects.
Anti microbial and anti bacterial: Cilantro protects against the bacteria Salmonella.
Digestion: Cilantro, like peppermint, aids in digestion and helps settle the stomach and prevent flatulence.
Weight loss: Regular intake of cilantro helps in weight loss by reducing accumulated belly fat.
Cilantro is a little green plant but with a lot of benefits for good health.
