Rootwork

Coriander

Coriandrum sativum

ApiaceaeEastern Mediterranean and Middle East

Description

overall appearance

Annual herb growing 1-3 feet tall with delicate, lacy foliage and umbel-shaped flower clusters; entire plant is aromatic.

roots

Taproot system extending 8-12 inches deep with lateral roots; relatively shallow but efficient nutrient uptake.

stem

Slender, hollow, branching stems; green color with possible purple tinge; smooth surface with ridged appearance.

leaves

Compound leaves with different shapes: lower leaves broad and lobed; upper leaves finely divided and feathery; alternate arrangement.

flowers

Small white to pale pink flowers arranged in compound umbels; 5 petals per flower; appear in summer months.

fruits/seeds

Round, ribbed seeds (coriander spice) with sweet, citrusy aroma; tan to brown color when mature; contain essential oils.

Botanical illustration of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Active Compounds

Linalool (70-80% of seed oil; calming, antimicrobial)Geranyl acetate (anti-inflammatory, digestive)Camphor (stimulating, antimicrobial)Geraniol (antimicrobial, antioxidant)Borneol (analgesic, anti-inflammatory)Quercetin (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory)

Traditional Uses

  • Digestive disorders and dyspepsia
  • Urinary tract infections and kidney stones
  • Arthritis and joint inflammation
  • Anxiety and nervous tension
  • Diabetes and blood sugar regulation
  • Eye infections and conjunctivitis

Modern Applications

  • Digestive health and gastric motility
  • Antimicrobial and antifungal properties
  • Blood sugar regulation and diabetes support
  • Heavy metal detoxification (leaves)
  • Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects
  • Cholesterol management

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Known allergies to Apiaceae family plants
  • Low blood pressure (may enhance hypotensive effects)
  • Upcoming surgery within 2 weeks

Side Effects

  • Generally well-tolerated in normal doses
  • Possible photosensitivity with excessive use
  • Digestive upset in very large doses
  • Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals

Drug Interactions

  • Diabetes medications (may enhance blood sugar lowering)
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Blood-thinning medications
  • Sedative medications

Parts Used

  • Seeds (primary medicinal and culinary use)
  • Fresh leaves (cilantro - culinary and some medicinal use)
  • Essential oil from seeds
  • Roots (occasionally in traditional medicine)

Preparation Methods

1-2 teaspoons crushed seeds per cup boiling water; steep 10-15 minutes

Seeds simmered 15 minutes for stronger digestive effects

1:5 ratio with 60% alcohol; macerate crushed seeds 3-4 weeks

Ground seeds or fresh leaves applied to inflamed areas

Seeds in carrier oil for topical anti-inflammatory use

Related Plants

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Birch

Betula spp.

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Arthritis and joint painSkin conditions including eczema and psoriasisUrinary tract infections and kidney stones
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.