The Cilantro Debate Spicy, Soapy, or Just Plain Healthy

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a unique plant believed to originate from the Mediterranean region. The young, green leaves of Coriandrum sativum are used herbally as cilantro, and the fruit, coriander, is used to spice various culinary dishes. Traditionally, the coriander plant was used for gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urinary concerns. It was also used for pain management and inflammation.

This plant is high in antioxidants and is antimicrobial. Research has found it may be helpful with E. coli in the gut and skin fungal infections. Studies have also found cilantro can help maintain a healthy blood sugar. It also seems to support a healthy cholesterol and blood pressure, showing it may be helpful with heart disease. Additionally, cilantro appears to have neuroprotective and mood-balancing effects. This healthy herb may also reduce anxious behaviors and help Alzheimer’s. Most research has been animal-based, so more study is needed.

It’s generally known that cilantro can help with heavy metal toxicity. There is not currently enough research to say whether it does or not. What it does seem to do is reduce/slow/prevent the uptake of heavy metals when taken during exposure. Again, even for this claim, more research is needed. Herbs such as garlic and milk thistle seem to have a more reliable effect.

This herb is usually available throughout the year at the local grocery store or Hispanic market. It can be added to many dishes, especially salsas, guacamoles, soups, sauces, dressings, and drinks. For some people, cilantro tastes bittersweet and spicy, while some say it tastes soapy with a foul odor. This is due to individual gene differences in the senses of smell and taste.

Resources:

Abascal, Kathy & Yarnell, Eric. 2012. “Cilantro–Culinary Herb or Miracle Medicinal Plant?.” Alternative and Complementary Therapies; 18: 259-264. 10.1089/act.2012.18507.
Mahleyuddin, N. N., et al. 2021. “Coriandrum sativum L.: A Review on Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Cardiovascular Benefits.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland); 27(1): 209. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27010209
Singletary, Keith. 2016. “Coriander: Overview of Potential Health Benefits.” Nutrition Today; 51: 151-161. 10.1097/NT.0000000000000159.
Mehrandish, Reza, et al. 2019. “Heavy Metals Detoxification: A Review of Herbal Compounds for Chelation Therapy in Heavy Metals Toxicity.” J Herbmed Pharmacol; 8(2): 69-77. doi: 10.15171/jhp.2019.12

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