7 Health Benefits Of Cilantro

For many centuries, people have respected the health values of many plants and herbs not only because they add flavor to cooking but also because of their health benefits. Cilantro is one such plant. However, have you ever contemplated about the possible health advantages that cilantro might provide aside from being a tasty herb in your most-loved dish? It might not be a common name you hear often, but there are many health advantages that can come from adding Cilantro into your everyday eating habits. Known as coriander in some places around the globe, Cilantro is not only a tasty herb included in various cooked meals like soups, salads and curries to boost flavor; it also holds hidden potential for our well-being.

What is Cilantro?

Usually seen on our plates as a decoration, cilantro contains many nutrients and healing effects in its gentle leaves. It has been highly appreciated for ages in different cultures. In this blog post, we explore deeply into the amazing health benefits of cilantro.

Antioxidant Effects

Abundant in a variety of antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids, cilantro helps to counteract damaging free radicals within the body. Free radicals, which result from metabolism and environmental stress, have the ability to harm cells and DNA, causing chronic illnesses and faster aging. Cilantro’s wide range of phytochemicals work to capture free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, protecting cell health and enhancing overall wellness.
Research has highlighted the strong antioxidant ability of cilantro, which is credited to the existence of certain compounds such as quercetin, kaempferol, and beta-carotene.

These antioxidants work to reduce oxidative damage, which in turn fights inflammation, decreases the likelihood of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and cancer, and strengthens the immune system. Moreover, cilantro’s abundant vitamin C levels also boost its antioxidant abilities, increasing its capacity to neutralize free radicals and strengthen the body’s immune system.

Management of Diabetes

Studies indicate that cilantro can assist in managing diabetes by controlling blood sugar levels, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and reducing complications related to the disease.

Cilantro has the ability to regulate blood sugar levels, making it important in managing diabetes. Research indicates that specific substances present in cilantro, like quercetin and coriandrin, have hypoglycemic effects, which can aid in reducing blood sugar levels. Cilantro can help improve glycemic control in people with diabetes by increasing insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and enhancing glucose absorption by cells.

Promotes Detoxification

Cilantro is thought to support detoxification by various means, mainly because of its high levels of antioxidants and specific compounds that assist in eliminating toxins from the body.

1) Cilantro has antioxidants such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C that aid in combating harmful free radicals and lowering oxidative stress. By fighting oxidative damage, cilantro aids the body’s innate detox processes and safeguards cells and tissues against toxins.

2) Chelation Abilities: Some research indicates cilantro might possess chelation abilities, allowing it to attach to heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium to help in their elimination from the body. It is thought that compounds like cilantro’s distinctive aromatic oils and specific peptides help facilitate the removal of heavy metals through urine and feces.

3) Improved Liver Performance: The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body by processing and removing harmful substances. Cilantro has components that can aid liver health and enhance detox processes. Studies indicate that cilantro can enhance the function of enzymes related to detoxification in the liver, aiding in the breakdown and removal of toxins from the body.

4) Cilantro has gentle diuretic effects which can lead to an increase in urine production and help remove waste and toxins through the urinary system. Cilantro can assist in eliminating toxins and easing the workload on organs like the kidneys by increasing urine output.

Supports the Immune System

Cilantro is a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that is essential for boosting immune function. Vitamin C boosts the creation and function of white blood cells, necessary for combatting infections. It also boosts the activity of different types of immune cells, such as lymphocytes and phagocytes, and stimulates the creation of antibodies.

1. Cilantro is packed with antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids that work to counteract damaging free radicals and lower oxidative stress. Antioxidants help maintain immune system health and may protect against diseases by shielding cells from free radical-induced damage.
2. Effects of reducing inflammation: Prolonged inflammation may compromise immunity and elevate susceptibility to infections and other health issues. Cilantro has compounds that have properties against inflammation and can help decrease inflammation in the entire body. Cilantro can possibly aid in maintaining a healthy immune system and improving immune function by regulating pathways involved in inflammation.
3. Antimicrobial Activity: Certain research indicates that cilantro might possess antimicrobial properties due to its essential oils and other bioactive compounds. These antimicrobial abilities can assist in fighting against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, ultimately lowering the likelihood of infections and promoting immune system wellness.

Enhances Digestive Health

Rich in Fiber: Cilantro contains dietary fiber, a crucial component for optimal digestion. Fiber promotes larger stool, facilitates easier passage, and helps prevent constipation. This can help keep your bowels regular by regulating their function, potentially improving digestive health and lowering the risk of gastrointestinal problems.

Antibacterial and Antifungal: Cilantro’s essential oils, along with its numerous other bioactive compounds, can fight against detrimental bacteria and fungi. This may be advantageous for addressing digestive system problems. Cilantro can help maintain a healthy balance of gut microbiota, which is important for digestion and immune system function, by inhibiting the growth of pathogens.

In the digestive system, chronic inflammation is linked to digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can lead to anti-inflammatory effects. Cilantro contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the inner lining of the gut. Cilantro can help alleviate symptoms associated with digestive issues and promote gastrointestinal comfort by reducing inflammation.

Adding cilantro to your meals as part of a diverse and balanced diet can enhance digestive health in a delicious manner. Cilantro can be used fresh in salads, soups, and smoothies or as a seasoning in different dishes. It adds flavor and versatility to meals and may improve digestion and overall health.

Skin Health

Cilantro has shown potential anticancer properties in preliminary studies due to the compounds it contains. Compounds like quercetin, kaempferol, and flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially inhibit cancer growth and spread. Furthermore, cilantro also has phytochemicals that can cause cancer cells to undergo apoptosis, without harming healthy cells. Although additional studies are required to clarify the impact of cilantro on cancer prevention and treatment, including it in your diet could provide some safeguards against this harmful illness.

Some research indicates that cilantro could have anti-proliferative impacts on cancer cells, potentially preventing their growth and propagation. The compounds in cilantro have been studied for their potential to trigger apoptosis in cancer cells, which could slow down tumor growth and lower the chances of metastasis.

Cilantro Promotes Bone Health

Possible advantages for bone health from the nutritional content and different bioactive substances.

Abundant in Calcium: Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health, aiding in bone strength and density. Although cilantro does not contain as much calcium as dairy products or fortified foods, it still offers a moderate amount that can help increase overall calcium consumption when included in a well-balanced diet. Calcium, a cornerstone of bone strength and density, is essential for maintaining skeletal integrity and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Even in modest amounts, the calcium present in cilantro adds to the cumulative intake from various dietary sources, reinforcing the foundation for optimal bone health when integrated into a balanced diet.

Origin of Vitamin K: Vitamin K can be found in cilantro, an essential nutrient for maintaining strong bones by controlling calcium levels and aiding in bone mineralization.

Vitamin K has a two-fold function in bone health – it controls calcium levels in bones and aids in bone mineralization. In particular, it helps activate osteocalcin, a crucial protein for attaching calcium ions to the bone matrix, which ultimately improves bone mineralization and increases bone strength. Ensuring a sufficient intake of vitamin K can help prevent conditions related to vitamin K deficiency, like osteoporosis and fractures, which helps strengthen the skeletal system for overall health and mobility in the long run.

How to cook with Cilantro

Cilantro enhances numerous dishes with a burst of fresh taste and flavor. Below are a few methods for incorporating cilantro into your cooking:

Garnish: Using cilantro as a garnish is the easiest method. Simply finely chop it and sprinkle it on top of your completed dish for a burst of color and taste. It performs effectively with soups, salads, tacos, curries, and other dishes.

In salads: Incorporate diced cilantro into salads for a crisp and aromatic taste. It complements ingredients such as tomatoes, cucumbers, avocados, and onions very nicely.

In salsa recipes: Cilantro plays a vital role as a key ingredient. Mix it with tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, lime juice, and salt for a tasty topping on tacos, nachos, or grilled meats.

In marinades: Mix together cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and spices to make a tasty marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu. Allow the protein to soak in the marinade for a couple of hours before cooking by grilling or baking to enhance the taste.

For soups and stews: Throw in some chopped cilantro during the final stages of cooking to infuse a refreshing, fragrant taste. It goes best with Mexican and Thai-influenced meals.

In rice and grains: Mix in chopped cilantro with cooked rice or grains such as quinoa or couscous for extra flavor and a touch of freshness. It is an easy method to enhance a side dish.

Recommended Cilantro Supplements

1. Cilantro USDA Organic 120 Capsules | High-Potency Herbal Organic Capsules
2. Cilantro Leaf Tincture for Detox – Cilantro Liquid Extract for Body Cleanse
3. Organic Cilantro Tincture – Herbal Cilantro Supplement for Detox
4. Secrets of the Tribe Cilantro Alcohol-Free Liquid Extract, Cilantro (Coriandrum Sativum) Dried Leaf Tincture Supplement

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does cilantro taste like soap to me?

Interestingly, some people perceive cilantro as having a soapy taste due to a genetic predisposition that heightens sensitivity to certain compounds in the herb.

Is cilantro from the same plant as coriander?

Yes, cilantro and coriander come from the same plant, Coriandrum sativum. Cilantro refers to the leaves and stems, while coriander refers to the seeds.