Coriander: Uses, Benefits, Safety and Practical Tips

Coriander is a common herb used around the world for food and home remedies. Fresh leaves are called cilantro, while the dried seeds are called coriander seeds. Both parts add flavor and bring nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin A, fiber and antioxidants.

How to use

Many people use coriander to help digestion. Chewing a few fresh leaves after meals or sipping coriander seed tea can ease bloating and gas for some folks. To make tea, crush one teaspoon of seeds and steep in hot water for ten minutes; drink one or two cups a day as needed.

Coriander has been studied for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Small lab studies and limited clinical trials show coriander extracts can reduce growth of some bacteria and lower markers of inflammation. These findings are promising but not a replacement for prescription antibiotics or medical care when you need it.

Safety

If you take medicines, watch for interactions. Coriander may lower blood sugar, so pair it carefully with diabetes drugs to avoid hypoglycemia. It can also affect blood clotting in high amounts, so people on blood thinners like warfarin should talk with their doctor before using large quantities or supplements. When in doubt, check with a pharmacist — they can review your medication list.

Pregnant and breastfeeding people should stick to culinary amounts. Using coriander seeds or concentrated supplements in medicinal doses during pregnancy is not well studied and may carry risk. Also be aware of allergies; coriander is in the same plant family as celery and carrots, so cross-reactions happen in sensitive people. If you get hives, swelling or breathing trouble after eating coriander, seek medical help.

For cooking and storage, pick bright green leaves with no yellowing and firm stems. Store fresh coriander wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag in the fridge for up to a week. Keep seeds in an airtight container away from heat and light; whole seeds retain flavor for many months and taste best when lightly toasted before use.

Using coriander oil topically can smell pleasant and may soothe skin, but always dilute with a carrier oil and do a patch test first. Pure essential oil is strong and can irritate skin or eyes. For supplements, standard capsule sizes often range from 300 to 500 milligrams of seed extract; follow the product label and avoid stacking supplements without professional advice.

If you want to try coriander for a specific health concern, write down what you take and why, note any changes, and show that list to your healthcare provider. Small, everyday changes — adding fresh coriander to meals or replacing salt with coriander seeds and lemon — can improve flavor and may support health without risk.

Want to buy coriander supplements? Choose products with clear labels, third-party testing, and a short ingredient list. Avoid blends that hide doses. If you have liver disease or take multiple prescription drugs, ask your doctor first. Pick a reputable brand and note batch expiry dates. Keep a small diary of effects.