Common Names
Cilantro, Chinese parsley, cilantro
Botanical Name
Coriandrum sativum
Family
Apiaceae
Medicinal Uses
Culinary/Kitchen, Digestion, Halitosis
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Depurative, Digestive, Emmenagogue, Energize, Febrifuge, Mental Clarity
Parts Used
Seeds, essential oil
Constituents
anethole, camphor, linalool, pinene, quercetin, rutin.
Habitat
Cultivated, full sun. Native to southwestern Asia west to north Africa.
Side Effects
Cilantro is likely safe when taken by mouth in food amounts. However, some people might experience food allergies after eating cilantro. There is one report of hives, facial swelling, and throat swelling in a man who ate cilantro. When cilantro comes in contact with the skin, it can cause hives or itching. Avoid using more than food amounts during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
How to Prepare
The leaves can be enjoyed raw or cooked. It adds excellent flavor to salads, salsa, chutney, pesto, sauces, dips, and dressings. It's most commonly added just before a dish is served or as a garnish on top because heat diminishes its flavor.
