Coriander

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is an annual herbaceous plant from the carrot family. It is widespread worldwide and is cultivated especially in Central America, North Africa and Southeast Asia. Coriander is relatively easy to cultivate and propagate, so the plant can be found today in markets on many continents. It grows wild in places like Armenia, Israel and parts of Thuringia. The plant is characterized by its pinnately divided leaves and spherical umbels with white or reddish flowers. The seeds and leaves have an aromatic, spicy flavor.

Health Effects in Traditional Medicine  

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, homeopathy, medieval medicine such as that of Hildegard von Bingen, as well as in Ayurveda, coriander is attributed with various health effects. The essential oil is said to have an appetizing, digestive, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect. Coriander is also said to have an antibacterial and antimicrobial effect against streptococci, staphylococci and candida fungi. The leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals. Overall, traditional medicine attributes a variety of positive effects to coriander.

Potential Health Risks

The available information does not mention any known health hazards from drinking coriander extracts (maceration or tea). The search results indicate that coriander is generally considered safe for consumption. Only during prolonged wet weather can plant diseases such as umbel smut occur, but this is not relevant for consumption. Overall, the information does not suggest any health risks from consuming coriander.