Coriander

Related Terms

Apiaceae (family), carotenoids, Chinese parsley, coentro (Portuguese), coriander, Coriandi fructus, Coriandrum sativum, dhania (Indian), ko-en-do-ro (Japanese), koriander, Mexican coriander, Umbelliferae (family).
Combination product: Carmint (Melissa officinalis, Mentha spicata, Coriandrum sativum).
Note: This monograph includes information about the coriander plant, the seed, the fruit, coriander spice, and coriander essential oil. It does not include information about cilantro, the leaf of the coriander plant.

Background

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is an annual herb in the Apiaceae family. The leaves are also called coriander leaves, Chinese parsley, or cilantro. "Coriander" refers to both the plant itself and the spice produced from coriander seeds.
Recipes that call for "fresh coriander" are referring to the leaves (cilantro). Both coriander and cilantro are commonly used in soups, salads, dressings, salsa, and chutney. The leaves are used in curry and guacamole. The roots are used in some Thai recipes. The seeds are used to produce the well-known coriander spice.
Ground coriander seed has a distinctive taste, like that of citrus and sage combined. It is quite versatile and can be used in desserts and sweet pastries, Indian curries, meat and seafood dishes, stews, and marinades. It is often used in recipes from Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, as well as China, Mexico, eastern India, South America, and southern Spain.
Limited research suggests that coriander may help treat constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as improve vision, digestion, blood sugar, and cholesterol. However, more evidence is needed before conclusions can be made regarding the use of coriander for any medical condition.

Evidence Table

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *


Preliminary studies show that combining standard treatment with coriander tea may treat chronic constipation. More evidence is needed regarding the use of coriander for this condition.

 C


Preliminary studies show that combining standard treatment with coriander tea may treat chronic constipation. More evidence is needed regarding the use of coriander for this condition.

 C


There is preliminary evidence that suggests a combination product containing coriander may be effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome. Further research is needed.

 C


There is preliminary evidence that suggests a combination product containing coriander may be effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome. Further research is needed.

 C
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory

The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older)
There is no proven safe or effective dose for coriander in adults.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Interactions

Interactions with Drugs
Coriander may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using medications that may also lower blood sugar. People taking insulin or drugs for diabetes by mouth should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist. Medication adjustments may be necessary.
Coriander may cause low blood pressure. Caution is advised in people taking drugs that lower blood pressure.
Coriander may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs using the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system. As a result, the levels of these drugs may be increased in the blood and may cause increased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions. People using any medications should check the package insert and speak with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, about possible interactions.
Coriander may increase the amount of drowsiness caused by some drugs. Examples include benzodiazepines such as lorazepam (Ativan?) or diazepam (Valium?), barbiturates such as phenobarbital, narcotics such as codeine, some antidepressants, and alcohol. Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery.
Coriander may also interact with agents for liver damage, agents that may increase light sensitivity, agents that remove heavy metals, antibiotics, anticancer agents, antifungal agents, anti-inflammatory agents, antiparasitic agents, cholesterol-lowering agents, diuretics, fertility agents, gastrointestinal agents, laxatives, and muscle relaxants.

Attribution

This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

Bibliography

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