Characteristics of Coriander

Coriander, also known as Chinese parsley (Coriandrum Sativum), is an annual herb of the Apiaceae family originating from Europe, North Africa and Southwest Asia.
It has a spicy, woody aroma and can grow up to one meter tall. Its soft leaves consist of lobed edges that grow broader at the base of the plant and become finer towards the upper parts of the stems. During its flowering period in spring, it develops small white flowers which mature into a spherical schizocarp fruit about 5 millimetres in diameter. Coriander is drought-resistant, but its productivity
is favoured by a temperate climate.
All parts of the plant are edible; in cooking, mainly the leaves and seeds are used. It is also used as a flavouring in winemaking and is a characteristic ingredient of Indian and Arabic cuisine.
It is often included in herbal therapy formulas to improve digestion and relieve intestinal bloating. Among its benefits are its analgesic, antiseptic, fat-dissolving and digestive properties. Additionally, it combats insomnia, headaches and fatigue.

History of Coriander

The oldest find of coriander is in Israel and dates back to around 6000 BC.
In ancient Greece, the cultivation of coriander began for dietary purposes, as they used the seeds as a spice and the leaves in fresh salads. It is mentioned that the ancient Greeks and Romans used coriander seeds to flavor wine.
The ancient Egyptians attributed aphrodisiac properties to coriander. Seeds of the plant were also found in the tomb of Tutankhamun.
In India, the dried fruits of coriander are among the main ingredients of
traditional cuisine, and of daily skin care when included in massage oils.
In the 17th century, Chinese herbalists recommended coriander as a treatment for various digestive disorders.

Ingredients

Essential oil of coriander from the various parts of the plant (tender sprigs, leaves, flowers and seeds) by steam distillation.

Chemical composition of coriander essential oil

Linalool up to 80.3%, γ-terpinene up to 11.2%, α-pinene up to 10.9%, γ-cymene 8.1%, camphor 5.1%, geranyl acetate 5.4%, benzofuran,2,3-dihydro, dodecanoic acid (5%), dodecanal (4.1%), dodecan-1-ol (3.13%) and other components.

Directions for use

- After standing for many hours, you can add a few drops of coriander essential oil to a basin of warm water for a relaxing foot bath that soothes muscle pain.
- Infusion for the relief of irritable bowel:
In 100 ml of water, boil some fennel seeds, cumin, 1 saffron stigma and a little mastic powder (for culinary use). Let the mixture boil for 2–3 minutes, then strain and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Finally, add 1 drop of coriander essential oil.
- For natural treatment of indigestion: add a few drops of coriander and ginger essential oils to natural almond oil and massage the lower abdominal area with circular movements.*
- To relieve headache, put a few drops of coriander, lavender and geranium essential oils in a ceramic oil burner and enjoy the therapeutic aroma in your home.
- Blends well with essential oils of cinnamon, bergamot, neroli, ginger, sandalwood, orange, grapefruit and lemon.
*Specialized use of coriander essential oil can relieve period pains, cramps, stomach upsets and sunburn.
*Contact our pharmacist for the preparation of the blend.

Chinese medicine - Ayurveda

In TCM, coriander is known as Xiang Cai and restores the meridians of the spleen, large intestine and stomach. Its cooling nature moves the vital force Qi, expels heat from the liver and clears the mind. The specialized use of coriander essential oil can relieve period pains, cramps, stomach upsets and sunburn.
In Indian Medicine – Ayurveda, coriander is classified among the tridosha spices, as it eliminates any excess of air, fire and earth (vata, pitta, kapha). It increases the mental quality of clear thinking, sattva, and is found in everyday cooking and in-between beverages.

Useful tips

- Essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by young children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils diluted in a carrier oil or other medium.