It’s a pretty controversial herb with some people loving it and others hating it
There’s an anti-inflammatory herb you need to start buying if you’re not already with new research showing that it can help to regulate cholesterol and blood sugar. So what is it?
Experts say that you should be adding coriander to your diet, calling it a “powerhouse herb”. Hailed for its numerous health benefits, despite its divisive flavour with some thinking it tastes like soap, it’s loved by many and can be added to a variety of dishes.
Also known as cilantro, it’s widely used in Mediterranean cuisines, particularly in North Africa, Greece, and Turkey as well as in Mexican and Andean dishes. As well as it’s taste, it is loved for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, reports heraldo.es. Rich in flavonoids, coriander combats inflammation while offering essential oils that act as diuretics and help regulate LDL (bad cholesterol).
Can coriander help blood sugar control?
One of coriander’s key qualities is its ability to regulate blood sugar. Packed with fibre, the herb helps control glucose spikes and has been linked to beta-cell regeneration in the pancreas. These cells, located in the Islets of Langerhans, play a vital role in insulin production.
Regular consumption of coriander can support balanced blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or those looking to maintain steady energy levels.
Does coriander have vitamins and minerals?
Yes! Coriander is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamin K, in particular, is abundant in its leaves and seeds of the plant, supporting cell protection against oxidation, reducing the risk of blood clots as well as promoting bone health. Additionally, coriander provides vital minerals like potassium, calcium and magnesium, further enhancing its role in maintaining overall health.
The benefits do not end there. According to a report by Doctor Kathleen M. Zelman, a leading nutrition expert and WebMD Director of Nutrition, coriander contains dodecenal, a compound with antimicrobial properties. This makes coriander effective in combating infections and diseases caused by contaminated food. It has even shown promise in treating salmonella and issues caused from hospital-acquired infections.
Recent research from the University of California further states that it can act as a natural anticonvulsant. Historically used in folk medicine, coriander has shown potential in managing seizures, opening new avenues for medical applications.
So it’s worth picking up this powerhouse of a herb to add to your next meal whether it’s as a snack or as part of a main meal – or even in a dip. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, the herb can regulate cholesterol, balance blood sugars, combat inflammation and even fighting infections.
