Coriander

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum Linn.),known as  Dhanyaka in sanskrit. Seeds and leaves are an important spice of Indian culinary since ages and also used for therapeutic purposes as well. It is also famous by the name Cilantro Seeds. Its Sanskrit  Synonym “Vitunnaka” means “helps to relieve agony ,Pain”.

Ayurvedic Actions

Health Benefits

Urinary System

Dhaniya is also diuretic in nature which means that it helps increase the volume and frequency of urination flushing out the toxins from the body. This helps in keeping the urinary system clean. Coriander seeds are effective for treating urinary tract infections as they improve the filtration rate of kidneys enabling quicker urine generation. 

Digestive system

Coriander is rich in borneol and linalool which helps digestion. It is also useful in the prevention of diarrhea. Coriander stimulates digestive enzymes and juices, which are known to enhance our digestive system.

Dhania (Coriander) might be beneficial in managing Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS might occur due to the overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. Essential oil from the Dhania seeds inhibits the overgrowth of these bacteria.

Wound Healing

Dhaniya contains Citronellol which is a great antiseptic. It helps speed up the healing process of mouth ulcers and also prevents bad breaths.

Diabetes Management

Coriander benefits include controlling diabetes. It helps stimulate the endocrine glands increasing the secretion of insulin. This whole process helps in the proper breakdown of sugar in the body controlling diabetes.

Cholesterol Management.

Coriander uses also include reducing bad cholesterol from the body without affecting the good cholesterol minimizing the risk of heart-related disorders.

Pain management.

Coriander is beneficial in the management of joint pain. Cineole and linoleic acid in Dhania (Coriander) have antirheumatic, antiarthritic activity and anti-inflammatory activity. Coriander inhibits the inflammatory mediators and helps reduce pain and inflammation.

For eye sight

Dhania juice is good for eyesight. It is because Dhania juice is rich in vitamin A which is essential for good eye health.

Dosage and side effects (only after consultation with an ayurvedic doctor)

Dhania Churna - ¼- ½ teaspoon twice a day.

Coriander seed does not usually have any side effects but the seeds may induce allergy in those who handle it because of its volatile nature.

References

1. Jabeen et al.Coriander is a valuable herb in promoting digestion and treating gastro-intestinal disorders such as dyspepsia, flatulence, loss of appetite, griping pain and vomiting.Handbook of Herbs and Spices.2009;1(1)
2. Shivanand P. Coriandrum sativum: A biological description and its uses in the treatment of various diseases. IJPLS.2010 1(3):119-126.