No matter what you’re cooking there is a spice that you should reach out for more than the rest. No, its not salt, but the savory and slightly citrusy flavor you get from ground coriander seeds. Besides the taste, are there any health benefits of coriander? It turns out that there’s a ton.
First let’s clear up what coriander actually is. The word refers to both the seeds and plant that we most commonly know as cilantro, but the spice you pick up from the grocery stores is made from grinding up the seeds rather than the leaves.
According to research, one major benefit of sprinkling coriander on your meals is lowering blood sugar. This happens thanks to the spice’s ability to promote enzyme activity that helps our bodies naturally remove the sugar in it.
In one animal study, extract from coriander seeds was able to decrease blood sugar levels as effectively as Glibenclamide, a common prescription given to those with type-2 diabetes. We aren’t saying you should swap out your medicine, but if you do have blood sugar problems, it might be worth talking to your doctor about incorporating more coriander into your diet.
Another heart-healthy benefit found in a 2008 study showed coriander significantly lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Research from 2011 backed this up by observing parts of the world where spices like coriander are used in meals more often, or those following the Mediterranean diet, tend to report lower cases of heart disease.
Coriander is also full of several anti-inflammatory antioxidants, including terpinene, quercetin, and tocopherols. These helps ward off cancer and brain fog, plus boost your immune system. Slowing down signs of skin aging and healing skin damage is another benefit of consuming coriander.
Last but not least, coriander was shown to help maintain gut health in a 2014 study. Apparently, a compound called dodecanal which coriander contains, fights bad bacteria – like Salmonella, the most common cause of food poisoning and bacteria responsible for Urinary Track Infection (UTI). Another study also showed coriander eased abdominal pain, bloating, and other uncomfortable stomach problems.
Despite all of the above benefits, you might be someone with the genetic predisposition that makes cilantro leaves taste soapy, and therefore make you think that you may not enjoy the seeds. They’re actually pretty different. As mentioned before, the ground up seeds have a citrusy taste that can add a fresh flavor to any meal. It also pairs well with turmeric, cumin and other spices frequently found in Indian cooking.
You can also take coriander supplements like Dr. Wakde’s Coriander Capsules Found on Amazon. But don’t forget to consult with your doctor before adding any supplements to your daily life.
Add a few shakes of ground coriander to your next meal and you might find yourself hooked – and feeling healthier while you’re at it.
That’s it for now my friends; see you all the next time.
