Coriander Seeds (Coriandrum Sativum)

Coriander Seeds are known for their aroma and unique taste. They have been around since thousands of years as an important cooking ingredient. Apart from culinary uses, the seeds are beneficial for maintaining overall health of an individual. Medicinal and health benefits of these seeds are just too many.

Table of Contents

Table Of Content

Table of Contents

Coriander Seeds Scientific Name

Coriander is scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum.

Coriander Seeds Common Names

It is known by different names in different geographical locations. In USA, the entire plant is called coriander and in India the seeds are called Dhania in Hindi. Similarly in Spanish it is called Cilantro.

Coriander Seeds Description

The seeds have a distinct physical appearance.

Appearance: One end of the seed is slightly pointed while the other is flat.

Length: It ranges between 3 to 5 mm.

Color: Typically brown when ripe but it may also be off white or green.

Aroma: They have a mild sweet flavor in ripen state, often having an essence of orange peel.

Taste: They have a citrus and nutty taste.

Picture 1 – Coriander Seeds

Coriander Seeds Distribution

It originates from the Mediterranean region. It has extensive cultivation in North Africa, India, South America, Europe, Thailand, China and Malaysia.

Growing and Harvesting Coriander Seeds

For growing coriander seeds some of the conditions can be ensured for steady growth of the plant.

Climate: Extreme heat and frost can be detrimental to its growth. Summers are ideal for its growth in mild climatic areas. In tropical climates, it can be grown during the dry season which is comparatively cooler.

Soil: Black and arid soil is ideal for its growth.

Sowing: Seeds are sown in the beginning of Spring season.

Care: After sowing the seeds keep them covered and well hydrated. Keep more space between the plants as it needs maximum space when they are grown for seeds.

Harvest time: The seeds ripen in summer when it is best harvested.

Harvesting: As soon as the seeds turn brownish in color, they are harvested by cutting the flowering parts of the plant. Next, these flower heads are put into a paper bag and then allowed to dry so that the seeds fall off when they are shaken.

Harvesting procedure: It can be done manually as well as mechanically.

Coriander Seeds Nutritional Facts

Serving Size 1 tsp

Total Fat 0.9g	1%
Saturated Fat 0.00g	0%
Monounsaturated Fat 0.7g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrates 2.7g	1%
Dietary Fiber 2.1 g	8%
Protein 0.6g
Vitamin A	0%
Vitamin C	2%
Calcium	4%
Iron	5%

Coriander Seeds Storage

These spices are best stored in airtight containers away from heat and light to seal in the freshness and aroma. It has a shelf life of about one year.

Picture 2 – Coriander Seeds Image

Coriander Seeds Substitute

Coriander seeds have multiple uses but they are not available in many parts of the world. This is why their substitutes are so much in demand from various quarters.

For imparting similar flavor to your dishes, you may use one tablespoon of fennel, caraway and cumin seeds instead of 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds.

Cilantro can also be used as its substitute especially in dishes like ‘dukkah’.

Coriander Seeds Health Benefits

These seeds are laden with many health benefits.

They help improve appetite as the aroma acts as a stimulant.
They are a storehouse of dietary fiber and minerals like magnesium, copper, manganese and iron that help in easing constipation and cell formation.
The seeds are rich in antioxidant vitamins which is very essential for good health.
They bring down low density lipoproteins (LDL) or bad cholesterol and increase the good cholesterol levels (HDL or high density lipoproteins) if taken regularly.
Several ailments of the digestive tract can be cured by taking them.
The seeds are also used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Coriander Seeds Medical Benefits

It is beneficial under certain medical condition as well.

An effective remedy for treating halitosis or bad breath is chewing these seeds.
For treating diabetes this can be a very good remedy as it controls insulin in the body.
It is used in gripe water formulations for having digestive and carminative properties.
They are useful in treating intestinal gas formation and countering nausea.
In Iran the seeds of coriander have been used for treating nervousness and insomnia.
These have also been used as sedatives and used for treating several other ailments in the Middle East.
Due to their efficacy in treating various diseases, they have been blended into medical formulations for treating depression and panic attacks.
Due to anti-allergic content which include antihistamines and bioflavonoids, it is used for treating hay fever and other allergic reactions.
Oil derived from the plant can be locally applied for treating body aches.
Seeds are beneficial in treating heavy menstrual discharge.
Seeds can be sprinkled on minor wounds which heal faster due to its bacteria killing properties.
Coriander tea is beneficial for treating patients diagnosed with kidney ailments. It can be made by boiling approx 2 tsp of seeds in 8 oz of water.
Coriander tea also helps cure swellings and ulcers in the mouth.
Certain symptoms of arthritis can be treated by it as it has anti-inflammatory properties.

Picture 3 – Green Coriander Seeds

Coriander Seeds Culinary Uses

It can be used in various cuisines globally.

Coriander seeds are commonly used as spices in a range of delectable recipes, worldwide. For best results, these seeds can be roasted in low heat and then grounded for fine powder.

It can be added in the poaching liquid while cooking fish.
You can use them in stews, sweet breads, confectionary products and bakery items for flavoring.
Borodinsky bread- Russian bread is made using coriander seeds.
In India, this spice has a varied usage in food items ranging from pickles, curries, marinades to sausages.
These can be sprinkled in broths and soups for a great flavor and taste.
In some of the Middle Eastern cuisines like pancakes, ground coriander is always preferred.
Chartreuse and Benedictine liqueur were two famous drinks that were prepared using it in the 18^th century.

Coriander Seeds Recipes

A range of interesting recipes can be prepared using them.

Its usage is not only limited to sumptuous dishes but also various kinds of beverages.
A flavored beverage of vanilla soymilk, cinnamon, honey and coriander can be prepared by heating all the ingredients in low heat.
A healthy recipe can be prepared by lightly stirring fresh spinach and garbanzo beans with a dash of coriander seeds and onion. For seasoning, you sprinkle some cumin and ginger.
Carrots, coriander seeds, vegetable broth, butter, black pepper, salt and brown sugar can be interestingly combined to make a wonderful preparation.

Coriander Seeds- where to buy?

If you would like to buy good quality coriander seeds, you may browse through the online stores that sell well packaged spices for different uses. Price generally varies between $4 and $20.

Coriander Seeds Side Effects

If you have diabetes or are presently taking drugs for controlling sugar, it is advised to consult a physician before taking these medicines.
Some allergies may be reported by patients who are allergic to food items related to the celery family.
Rare cases of sensitivity to sun may be reported by some resulting out of its consumption.

Coriander Seeds during Pregnancy

During pregnancy or post pregnancy while breastfeeding, one should never consume large proportions of these seeds as it may be harmful.

Coriander Seeds Interesting Facts

It has been used since thousands of years in Asian, Egyptian and Mexican cuisines.
In historical writings and ancient scripts all over the world there are references of coriander seeds as a valuable spice.
It is even mentioned in the Bible.
Be it Asian or Western Cuisine, the seeds blend in well with other ingredients imparting a nice aroma.

Coriander seeds are popular as spice in kitchens worldwide but they are also laced in many nutrients that maintain good health. Cures provided by them are completely safe and natural.