Saturday, March 30, 2013

Coriander leaves

Coriander leaves are known by different names in different jargons like in common language it is called dhania but in scientific language it is named as coriandrum. It is found in southwestern Asia, North Africa and southern Europe.

It is fifty centimeter tall and hairless plant with soft and tender steams and leaves. It pale pink or white flowers take birth in small umbels. There are variety of coriander plants that vary in the shape of their leaves and their width.

The entire plant can be consumed by us especially its dried seeds and fresh leaves are almost used in every dish. It is the ingredient of Indian, Middle Eastern, Texan, Mediterranean, Chinese, South Asian, Central Asian, Mexican, Latin American and African cuisine. These leaves are added into food due to their exotic aroma and taste. They are frequently used in chutneys, curries, vegetables and meat. They are sprinkled over the dishes for garnish purposes. These leaves are not only the part of Asian food but are also in Mexican and Chinese dishes.

The history of coriander's cultivation is very old as it was cultivated second millennium BC in Greece. It was used to make perfumes, as a spice and in the medicines. Archaeologists had discovered the large quantity of coriander's spices. In 1670, a great number of coriander spices were cultivated in North America by early settlers over there.

Coriander has great number of antioxidants that acts like preventer that stops the food from being spoiled. Both fresh and dry coriander has antioxidants. Its seeds have also the same effects as the fresh leaves have however dry seeds are not used in all the dishes but in some special dishes like pakoras.

It is widely used in herbal medicines. In Iran it is recommended for insomnia disease and also used to reduce the anxiety and provide relief. It is also used in India as a medicine. To form Indian medicine cumin seeds and coriander seeds are taken in equal amount, boiled water and put in it. When this liquid becomes cool, it is drink to get rid of problem. It is also used as a digestive and carminative help that regulate the digestive system. You may be shocked to know that it is best remedy for diabetes patients. The good consumption of coriander leaves reduces the diabetes. Coriander is also good for beauty care. If you have acne on your face, use coriander juice as a best toner for acne. These leaves have also antiseptic and anti inflammatory qualities. They help in curing rashes and big wounds.

Coriander is very common herb that is used in food however the properties that it has are not common. It does not only add flavor and give aroma to your dishes but also give strength to your body by inculcating good nutritious value and by curing many disease. You know that 100 g of fresh coriander leaves have:

Energy: 95 kJ
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fat: 0.5 g
Dietary fiber: 3 g
Vitamin A: equiv. 337 μg
Vitamin C: 27 mg
Protein: 2 g

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