Coriander Seed Benefits
Coriander seed is one of the most popular herbal spices and has a bounty of nutrients and potential health benefits to offer clever cooks.
What is Coriander Seed?
Coriander seed is the fruiting body of the coriander plant, which is a popular fresh herb. Scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum, this plant as a whole is known as coriander, as is the spice which is prepared using its seeds. Coriander seeds are light brown and round in appearance. They can either be cooked whole, where their flavor is enhanced, or they can be ground, although they quickly lose their potency in that form. The seeds have a unique taste, combining nutty, spicy, and citrus elements to create an inviting aroma in many dishes around the world. Coriander seed is a very popular ingredient in Asian dishes and curries, but they are are also used in the making of sausage, stew, soup, bread, and in pickling vegetable. Some people even use coriander seed in the process of brewing beer.
Coriander Seed Nutrition
Coriander seeds are packed with nutrients, including high levels of dietary fiber, antioxidants, B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, and calcium. These seeds also provide a moderate amount of protein and fat, although they would need to be eaten in large quantities to have a notable effect on those intake levels. The smell of coriander comes from its antioxidants and volatile oils, which include linoleic acid, oleic acid, Linalool, alpha-pinene, and terpene, among others.
Coriander Seed Benefits
The most notable health benefits of coriander seeds include regulating blood sugar levels, improving digestion and heart health, weight loss, skin and hair care, boosting immunity, and more.
Aids in Digestion
The significant dietary fiber and antioxidants can also optimize digestion, improve nutrient uptake, and prevent constipation and diarrhea.
Hair Care
The rich mineral composition of the seeds, in addition to the protein and healthy fats, can help to boost hair strength and growth, when consumed or topically applied in a medicinal salve or hair wash.
Boosts Immune System
Unlike many spices, coriander seeds are packed with vitamin C, a stimulant for the immune system that can improve the body’s defenses against foreign pathogens and infections.
Skin Care
The active ingredients in these seeds are known to improve skin health by neutralizing the effects of free radicals and lowering levels of oxidative stress, which can prevent symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
Treats Diabetes
The dietary fiber in these seeds can help you regulate the release of insulin and glucose in your body, which is good news for diabetic patients.
Weight Loss
These seeds can be a fiber-rich snack and can speed the metabolism, thanks to the B vitamins present, making it a great addition to any weight loss diet.
