Περιγραφή
Cilantro is an herb from the Apiaceae family which includes 3,700 species, including carrots, celery and parsley. All parts of the plant are edible, but its fresh leaves and dry seeds are commonly used in cooking. The history of its cultivation dates back to at least 1500 BC, as recorded in Sanskrit writings from that time.
Its seeds have been found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs and in ruins of Ancient Greece dating back to the Bronze Age, about 5,500 years ago. It is estimated that 4% to 14% of people cannot stand the taste of coriander and this is not because they are curious but, according to scientists, for genetic reasons. Coriander contains aldehyde a compound that a gene in these people likens to soap or insecticide.
Still others find this intense soapy but balanced by pleasant, cool, citrusy notes of its taste, highly addictive. Health Benefits Helps reduce stress. With long term use - it has proven to remove mercury from our tissues.
It is one of the very few herbs that can help remove heavy metals from the body - especially mercury, aluminum and lead.
Because of these capabilities, it is being studied for use as a natural water filter and is included in many "detox" juices and drinks. Its natural oils contribute to intestinal health. It helps with eye disorders, red eyes, macular degeneration. Prevents urinary tract infections. The vitamin K it contains plays a role in maintaining healthy bone structure and limits neuronal brain damage and consequently Alzheimer's disease. Prevents anemia as it contributes to the formation of blood.
Its leaves and stem tips are also rich in flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol, rhamnetin and epigenin - which are antioxidants. When juiced and consumed regularly, it can help reduce the amount of lipid peroxides in cell membranes. It acts as a natural diuretic protecting against kidney stones. It lowers LDL cholesterol, regulates blood pressure and heart function. A compound found in its leaves and seeds, dodecanal, has been found to have antibacterial activity against salmonella.
Coriander seeds are used in curry dishes, in curry powder itself, in pickles, sausages, soups, stews and in briam. itrofi.gr suggests that you add its fresh leaves to sauces and salads or put them towards the end of cooking so that they do not dissolve in various stews. You might also like its citrus flavor in your fruit salad.