Regardless of which end of the spectrum you fall on, there is no doubting that it is packed with micronutrients, antioxidants and other medicinal compounds that can have a huge impact on overall health.

 

Cilantro is a popular herb popular around the globe that resembles flat leaf parsley at first glance, but at first sniff, it transports you to the Mediterranean, Mexico, Asia and India. It gives a fresh boost of flavor, without the addition of sea salt or other seasonings.

 

This versatile herb is used in everything from guacamole and salsa to curries, noodle dishes and chimichurri sauces of Argentina. Not only does this flavorful, bright herb have unlimited culinary applications, but surprisingly to many people cilantro benefits the body and has many known healing properties.

 

One of the reasons that it is so unique is due to its versatility. While green and leafy, it brings a fresh, nearly citrusy flavor to foods. Once it flowers, it produces the seeds, and the flavor of the leaves intensifies.

 

Plus, the coriander seeds that it yields contain their own health benefits. Although still citrusy in nature, coriander has a warm, almost nutty flavor, making it the perfect complement for pickling, sausages, breads and earning it a spot as one of the central spices in garam masala along with cardamom and others.

 

Oxidative stress is linked to a wide array of degenerative diseases, including some types of cancer, heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimers disease, macular degeneration and much more.

 

This herbs strong antioxidant properties, in part due to the flavonoid quercetin, helps protect against the damage caused by free radicals in the body. An in vitro study found that Coriandrum sativum actually protects against oxidative stress thanks to its high content of antioxidants.

 

This herb can help calm the nerves and improve sleep quality due to its natural sedative properties. An animal model published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology found that high levels of cilantro extract produced the same anti-anxiety effects as the popular prescription drug valium (diazepam).

 

Some of the most common side effects of valium include confusion, hallucinations, risk-taking behavior, agitation, aggression, memory problems and muscle weakness. The extract of this herb could potentially help relieve anxiety and improve your sleep without these potentially dangerous side effects.

 

The leaves and stems of cilantro have been shown to help lower blood sugar levels in animal studies. One study published in the Journal of Food Sciences showed that when diabetes has been diagnosed, the plant helps support healthy liver function and balance blood sugar.

 

Researchers believe that the results support Coriandrum sativum as a remedy for diabetes. Chop the leaves and stems and add to salads, salsas and smoothies to lower your blood sugar levels and improve overall health.

 

Some research shows that this herb could help promote heart health by reducing several risk factors for heart disease. In fact, the results of one animal study indicated that cilantro benefits cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body by helping lower them.

 

Another study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology found that the polyphenols and natural cardioprotective nutrients found in the herb can help prevent oxidative damage that is specifically associated with heart damage.

 

There are many factors that can contribute to urinary tract infections, including bacterial growth, sexual activity, genetics or diabetes. Cilantros antibacterial compounds could potentially help keep the urinary tract healthy and free from unhealthy bacteria in a healthy alkaline environment. In addition, coriander seeds are helpful in relieving symptoms if a UTI does occur.

 

Simply soak 1.5 teaspoons of dried coriander seeds overnight in two cups of water. Strain and drink, or just add to your morning smoothie. It is believed to help relieve the discomfort and pain associated with the UTI and help speed your healing.