Coriander powder is used as a garnishing ingredient in Nepalese cuisines. We, Nepalese use varieties of ingredients in single cuisine for taste. However, many of us are not aware of their health benefits and nutrients.
Coriander powder is one such ingredient in Nepali cuisines that is underrated. Though every Nepali cabinet will have coriander powder, only few people will use it on a regular basis. Once you know the nutritional value and benefits of ,you will surely use Century coriander powder in your dishes regularly.
Coriander powder nutrients
The health benefits of coriander are linked to its nutritional values. Coriander powder is packed with vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and folate. It is also loaded with phytonutrients, phenolic components, and flavonoids.
As coriander powder is rich in these nutrients, it gives mouthwatering flavor to dishes. One tablespoon of coriander powder contains various essential nutrients that the body needs. It also contains nutrients such as carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fat, protein, thiamin, niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, manganese, selenium, zinc, and sodium.
Using one tablespoon of coriander powder in dishes can provide you all these nutrients. When using coriander powder in dishes, you will get indirect benefits. To get the direct benefits of coriander powder, you may mix one tablespoon of coriander powder in water. Drinking coriander water can amplify nutritional value.
Health benefits of coriander powder
As coriander is a rich source of nutrients, it surely has many health benefits. It may not completely treat diseases, but it can help in preventing infections and diseases.
Coriander for kidney
Coriander helps in cleaning process of the kidney by increasing the amount of urination and removing toxic waste from the body. The nutrients present in coriander powder aids in purifying inner health that keeps the body healthy.
Coriander for liver
Coriander is rich in antioxidants acts as a hepatoprotective by increasing the activity of enzymes like catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. These enzymes help in removing toxins by binding with them, which helps in improving the health of the liver.
Coriander for memory
You may be surprised to know that coriander powder can help in improving memory. Coriander does this by blocking the cholinesterase enzyme, which is responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine. It lower the level of oxidative stress in the brain, which blocks the activities of cholinesterase and promotes the development of acetylcholine.
Coriander for hair loss
Applying coriander paste on hair can prevent hair loss. As coriander is rich in vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin K, which strengthen hair follicles and preventing hair from breaking. You can make coriander paste by mixing coriander powder with water. Apply coriander paste on the scraps before bath. You may also use coriander water to wash your hair for strong hair.
Coriander for arthritis
Coriander has anti-inflammatory properties, which are effective in treating arthritis. It can aid in reducing skin swelling, which can lower discomfort and improve skin comfort. However, before using coriander to treat arthritis, it’s better to talk to your doctor if you are taking medication.
Coriander for rashes and allergies
Ayurveda is using coriander to treat itching, inflammation, skin rashes, and insect bites. Coriander is also effective in the treatment of burns and hay fever. Ayurveda is practicing the use of coriander water to cure rashes and allergies from centuries.
Coriander for oral health
Essential oil and citronellol component in coriander aids in healing mouth ulcer and cleansing breath. Using coriander with other cleaning agents as cloves can be effective in maintaining oral health. Making coriander paste with clove and using it early morning can help in cleaning mouth.
Other than these health benefits, coriander is also effective in maintaining eye health, treating skin diseases, improving brain function, losing weight, maintain blood sugar level, and cure other illnesses.
Side effects of coriander powder
Though coriander has many health benefits, it is not free of side effects. Coriander is safe to consume when you include in veggies and curries dishes. However, you can even consume it as a medicine to cure diseases. However, an excess amount of coriander can also have side effects. So, if you are thinking of consuming coriander to treat disease, then you may consult a doctor to know the exact dose.
Excess amount of coriander may arise, which include following:
- Some people may be allergic to coriander, in such case you should consult a doctor.
- Excess consumption of coriander may cause stomach pain and diarrhea. If these conditions persist, you can talk to your doctors.
- Person with low blood pressure should avoid consumption of coriander because it can lower blood pressure levels. However, that doesn’t mean you should also avoid cuisines made with coriander powder.
- Properties in coriander can cause respiratory disorder in certain people. People with respiratory disorder should consult a physician before consuming coriander water as it can shorten the breath.
- Acidic elements in coriander can cause sensitivity towards sunlight in some people.
- Direct intake of coriander can also cause chest pain in some people. So it is essential to consult a physician before taking coriander for medical purposes.
- Better to avoid coriander during pregnancy. Coriander can harm the activities of the reproductive gland and hamper the development of the foetus in pregnant women.
- Prolonged use of coriander can cause gastrointestinal problems and dehydration.
- Though coriander powder is effective in treating liver issues, prolong consumption may also cause liver problems.
Uses of coriander powder
Coriander powder gives a sweet and sour taste to cuisines. It is ideal to flavor curries and soups but can be used in other cuisines and meals. Below are the ideas to use coriander powder.
- Ideal to use in curries, pickles, chutneys and sauces.
- Sprinkle over any types of salads to enhance the taste.
- Use to flavor bread and waffles.
- Coriander is important to make gingerbread, and some biscuits and cake.
- Use to garnish meat and vegetable dishes.
- Use in the preparation of meatballs and burgers.
- Coriander enhances the taste when used with mushrooms.
- Use to spice stir-fries.
- Coriander is also used while baking cake.