Coriander is an aromatic herb popularly used as a spice in India. It is also used as a medicinal herb in Ayurveda, owing to its numerous benefits and therapeutic uses.
According to Ayurveda, coriander seeds or Dhanyaka are Tridosha Nashak, meaning they help pacify all the three Doshas, viz Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Therefore, Ayurveda recommends using coriander seeds in the treatment of various diseases.
Despite so many medicinal uses and benefits of coriander seeds, many people are still concerned about consuming them because of some myths and false assumptions about the herb. Let’s bust some of these myths and know the facts behind them.
4 Myths About Coriander Seeds Busted
- Myth: Coriander seeds can cause skin disorders.
Fact: While some people may face an allergic reaction to coriander seeds, the inherent properties of coriander seeds do not cause any skin disorder. As a matter of fact, coriander seeds are known to cure skin problems and boost skin health. They contain cineole and linoleic acid, both of which help reduce inflammation and cure skin ailments like eczema, rashes, etc.
- Myth: Coriander seeds can cause liver problems.
Fact: Powered with potent alkaloids and flavonoids, coriander seeds are known to treat several liver ailments such as jaundice and bile disorder. According to Ayurveda, they also boost the liver functions, ensuring proper elimination of toxins or Ama from the body.
- Myth: Coriander seeds can lead to gastrointestinal disorders.
Fact: Many people believe that coriander seeds can cause diarrhoea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, etc. However, it is a myth. Coriander is highly rich in borneol and linalool, both of which are known to prevent diarrhoea. These seeds also contain antioxidants and dietary fibres that help facilitate bowel movements, treat constipation and promote digestion. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties of coriander seeds also help to treat stomach ulcers and indigestion.
- Myth: Coriander seeds can cause menstrual irregularities.
Fact: Quite contrary to the belief, coriander seeds are known to prevent menstrual problems. They help stimulate endocrine glands and maintain proper hormonal balance in the body. In addition, coriander seeds also help to reduce period pain and alleviate the excess flow.
More Benefits Of Coriander Seeds As Per Ayurveda
- Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Coriander seeds help lower blood sugar levels and stimulate insulin production in the pancreas. Therefore, Ayurveda highly recommends it for diabetes patients.
- Enhances Immunity: Blessed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, coriander seeds are known to boost immunity and prevent many potential diseases and infections in the body.
- Boosts Heart Health: Coriander seeds have multiple heart benefits. They help to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the body. They also help eliminate excess sodium from the body and regulate blood pressure levels. Furthermore, they contain powerful flavonoids that prevent the formation of debris in the arteries.
- Combats Infections: Rich in antimicrobial, antiseptic and antibacterial properties, coriander seeds help fight infections, such as cough, cold, flu, etc.
- Treats Kidney Disorders: According to Ayurveda, coriander seeds are diuretic herbs, meaning they help increase the frequency and volume of urine. Therefore, they are used to treat kidney stones, urinary tract infections, etc.
- Prevents Anaemia: Coriander seeds are one of the best sources of iron. Therefore, Ayurveda recommends adding coriander seeds to your diet when you suffer from iron deficiency or anaemia.
- Boosts Bone Health: Coriander seeds contain substantial amounts of connective tissues that are powered with nutrients, like calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin K and phosphorus. All these nutrients help augment bone density and relieve joint pain in arthritis. They also help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
On A Final Note
Coriander seeds are one of the most beneficial medicinal herbs in Ayurveda. They help treat various disorders, such as menstrual problems, urinary tract infections, constipation, acne, liver ailments, etc. Yet, there are many myths about coriander seeds that avert people from consuming them. However, now you know the true medicinal facts about coriander seeds, so start including them in your diet.
