Cilantro is a popular herb packed with flavor and versatility. It is widely used in dishes/recipes from the Mediterranean, Mexico, Asia, and India. Cilantro can be an ingredient in salsa, noodle dishes, curry, and guacamole. Some say salt and other spices are needed when this herb is included. The flavor of cilantro leaves has a citrus taste many enjoy. Besides its taste, cilantro also has several health benefits.
One reason to eat cilantro is because it can help lower blood sugar levels. Cilantro can help support liver function and balance blood sugar. Cilantro can help lower cholesterol and triglycerides which can support heart health. Many people with diabetes add cilantro to smoothies, salsa, and salads.
This herb has antibacterial properties which may help fight urinary tract infections (UTI’s). It has been shown to reduce the symptoms of UTI when it happens. By soaking the leaves in water and drinking it, cilantro can be a natural UTI remedy. Cilantro can also support having a healthy menstrual cycle because it can regular endocrine gland function and the hormones associated with menstruation. It can also suppress bloating and cramps. This herb can also support a healthy digestive tract. Cilantro can help relieve indigestion, heartburn, gas, bloating, nausea, and stomach cramps. Because of its antibacterial properties it can help ward off food poisoning.
Cilantro can help detox toxins in the body. The coriander in cilantro can help prevent colon cancer. It can reduce cholesterol levels and increase the excretion of sterol compounds and bile. Metals including arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, lead and mercury can reside in tissue*es. The coriander in cilantro can help loosen and unbind these to eliminate them from the body.
This herb also contains antioxidants, specifically quercetin. Therefore, cilantro can help reduce oxidative stress and lower inflammation in the body. Because of this cilantro can help protect against neurodegenerative diseases which are caused by chromic inflammation.
The list of benefits continues. Cilantro has been shown to help lower anxiety. It can help calm nerves and improve sleep. It can also help with skin irritation including poison ivy, sunburns, and hives.
Cilantro is probably more beneficial to the body than one might have assumed. It is known for its taste, while being underrated for all else it can do. Cilantro is inexpensive, natural, won’t add to the waistline, all while improving health inside and out.
Cilantro – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
(PDF) Cilantro—Culinary Herb or Miracle Medicinal Plant?
Journal of Plant Medicines: Cilantro & Coriander Seed: Health Benefits and Traditional Uses
Dr. Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has a Doctorate in Health and Human Performance, M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor. She has 6 books on Amazon too,.