Cilantro is an edible herb known as Pak Chee in Thailand and Coriander in most western countries. It is also sometimes known as Chinese Parsley. This particular herb was originally a native of southern Europe and derived it’s name from the Greek word Koris, meaning a bug. Apparently this was because the plant typified a smell similar to that of bed bugs. Bed bugs!!! Although fresh cilantro does have a rather pungent flavour it’s considered by many to be quite fragrant, rather tangy if not a little peppery in taste.
Cilantro Leaves, Stems and Roots
Health Benefits
The health benefits derived from this wonderful plant are insurmountable.
1) It helps protect against certain viral and bacterial infections
2) It is beneficial in helping control blood sugar levels
3) It helps fight inflammation and free radicals.
4) It lowers bad cholesterol level (LDL) and raises good cholesterol (HDL)
5) It helps aid indigestion and settles the stomach
6) It helps protect against urinary tract infection
7) It relives intestinal gas and prevents flatulence
8) It helps in preventing nausea
9) It rids the body of heavy metals such as mercury, lead and aluminium
Dietary Source
The dietary source derived from the herb are excellent for your well-being.
1) It’s a great source of fiber
2) It’s a great source of iron
3) It’s a great source of magnesium
4) It’s Rich in phytonutrients and flavonoids
What are phytonutrients and flavonoids! They are natural nutrients found in foods of plant origin and play a potentially advantageous role in the prevention and treatment of disease thus necessary to sustain human life.