Coriander is a savory spice used extensively in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is the seed of the cilantro plant, an herb in the parsley family. Sometimes the leaves are also referred to as coriander.
Coriander may be one of the oldest spices humans used for flavoring; Sanskrit writings from 1500 BC mention it, as does the Bible. (1)
What is Coriander Seed Oil?
Cilantro or coriander leaves are a staple of Mexican food thanks to their distinct flavor. Cilantro benefits us not only with its culinary use but its extreme nutrition, with phytochemicals and antioxidants offering a variety of characteristics supporting health. Coriander spice is the ground seeds of the plant. They have a much different flavor but are no less nutritious.
Coriander seed oil concentrates the many healthful uses of this aromatic plant. It is extracted like other essential oils, through a distillation process that uses steam and pressure to ease out the oil from the solid seeds.
Given the versatility of the live plant and its savory spice, we often overlook the special qualities of coriander seed oil.
9 Coriander Seed Oil Benefits
Coriander seed oil can be found in health food stores and online.
1. Aphrodisiac
Coriander seeds have been used since ancient times as an aphrodisiac.
Egyptians used it in love potions, as it was said to increase potency and desire.
The vehicles by which these works are complex: its antioxidants improve circulation by regulating cholesterol, boost testosterone levels, increase libido, and improve nutrient absorption. (2) Phytoestrogen chemicals support potency and desire.
In addition, coriander is an effective mercury detoxifier; heavy metals are known to impede libido and sexual function. (3)
2. Boosts Weight Loss
Coriander seed extract has been found to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels and reduce LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein – “bad” cholesterol). (4)
Moreover, coriander enhances the breakdown of lipids (fats) and decreases blood uptake of fats. (5) It’s also a potent diuretic. (6)