Benefits of Coriander ( kothmir, dhania)

What are coriander leaves commonly associated with? Chutneys, salads, as a garnish for most Indian subzis and to some extent soups and juices….., This fresh herb has a distinctive aroma and just a dash of it is enough to boost the taste of any dish you have cooked with love. Commonly called as Dhania in Hindi, Kothimbir in Marathi and Cilantro is West Asia, these leaves come packed with a bundle of nutrients. They are rich in minerals like Phosphorus, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium and Vitamins like Vitamin A, B, C and K.

9 Health Benefits of Coriander

1. Combats Inflammation : The antioxidants vitamin A, vitamin C and the quercetin present in it works towards strengthening our immune system, set us free from toxins and reduce body inflammation. Cineole, one of the essential oils present in coriander along with linoleic acid in it together also target reduce skin inflammation, thus leaving your skin soft and smooth. Coriander garlic chutney is a peppy and nourishing way to make up for these nutrients. 

coriander garlic chutney recipe | dhaniya lahsun ki chutney | healthy green garlic coriander chutney | hare lehsun ki chutney

2. Overcomes Diarrhea : Coriander possess essential oils like linalool and borneol which aid in digestion and negate the effect of bacteria causing diarrhea, and thus is beneficial for treating diarrhea.

3. Relief from Anemia : Coriander is a fairly good source of iron and folate – the 2 nutrient which help in the production and maintenance of RBC in our blood. About a cup of coriander fulfils 29% of our daily requirement of folate. A high RBC count will help blood perform its function smoothly and transport oxygen and other nutrients to all parts of the body. This will avoid the fatigue setting in and keep you energetic through the day. To enhance the iron absorption, you can squeeze some lemon juice in the recipe you use coriander. Try Coriander Roti - an Indian staple.

coriander roti recipe | Indian style hara dhania paratha | healthy coriander roti | How to make easy coriander roti in 20 minutes

4. Improves Bone Health : Calcium has always been associated with strong bones. Yes, coriander also contributes calcium (about 53.12 mg per cup). Apart from salads, try making a juice and begin your day with the moto of preventing osteoporosis. Try our tested combination of coriander with other vitamin C rich fruit like Pineapple and Coriander Juice. Vitamin C provides builds immunity and also helps in the absorption of calcium. So it’s a dual health boost.

Pineapple and Coriander Juice

5. Anti-Cancer Effects : It’s the antioxidants in coriander which offer anti-cancer benefits. However more deeper research is yet needed in this field. Indulge into ragi and coriander uttapam for breakfast.

ragi uttapam recipe | ragi coriander uttapam | healthy nachni uttapam

6. Nudge away Bad Breath : In the past our ancestors use to chew on coriander seeds to keep bad breath away. Its fresh herb is also a good antiseptic and holds the capacity of improving oral hygiene and keeping bad breath away. Infact, some toothpastes also make use of this valuable herb.

7. Diabetes Management : Some research shows that chewing on coriander leaves and seeds stimulates the endocrine glands and promotes the secretion of insulin. This would result in proper absorption of sugar and management of blood sugar levels. A wiser option for diabetics would be to make it a habit of garnishing each dish with a tbsp. of freshly chopped coriander. It’s that easy. No added efforts needed to avoid that spike in blood sugar levels. Lemon and Coriander Soup is a perfect recipe for diabetics.

lemon and coriander soup recipe | healthy lemon coriander soup | lemon coriander vitamin c rich soup

8. Eye Care : Antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin and dietary carotenoids (vitamin A) in Coriander have been known to improve vision, reducing stress and strain on the eyes. The also help you stay steer off vision disorders and macular degeneration of eye thus delaying the onset of cataract. Try mooli dhania paratha.

mooli dhania paratha recipe | healthy radish coriander paratha | Indian dhaniya mooli ke parathe | radish stuffed Indian flatbread

9. Reduce Cholesterol Levels : Coriander is a storehouse many antioxidants. Linoleic acid, Oleic acid, Stearic acid and Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) work well to reduce the LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and promote artery and cardiac health. Additionally it has also been comprehended to increase the HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) which would drop off the risk of strokes. You can try amla coriander and spinach juice as a early morning health tonic.

Amla, Coriander and Spinach Juice

It isn’t very difficult to add a garnish of coriander to every meal. A small transformation will contribute to a healthy YOU. Do practice it!!

Nutritive Information for Coriander leaves:

Nutritional Information for 1 bowl of chopped Coriander leaves
1 Cup of Coriander leaves is 18g
RDA stands for Recommended Daily Allowance.

Energy 8 calories

Protein 0.5 g

Carbohydrate 1.1 g

Fat 0.1 g

Fiber 0.1 g