Dhaniya (coriander) can improve your heart health, vision and more
A little garnishing with Dhaniya and every dish starts to look super delicious. Fresh coriander also called hara dhaniya is packed with various nutrients like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, vitamin A, B, C and K. Both the plant and seeds of dhaniya are used for cooking.
Dhaniya powder is used in making most dals and curries. And fresh coriander leaves are commonly used for making chutney and garnishing food. It adds not just aroma and beauty to your food but also has various health benefits. Here are 10 of them.
Lowers risk of heart disease
Coriander acts as a diuretic, which helps flush extra sodium from your system and can reduce your blood pressure. Some early research also suggests that coriander can help lower the bad cholesterol, LDL, which, in turn, reduces your risk of heart diseases.
Reduces inflammation
Coriander can help reduce inflammation that is linked with various health issues from cancer to heart disease. The antioxidants in coriander have been linked to the slow growth of cancer cells in the lab.
Can boost immunity
Coriander has various antioxidants, which prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals. These compounds include terpinene, quercetin and tocopherols, which have immunity-boosting, antioxidants and neuroprotective effects.
Reduces blood sugar level
Current trials show that coriander can help activate the enzymes that can help your body process blood glucose effectively. More studies need to be done on people with high blood sugar to confirm the benefits of coriander on blood glucose levels.
Can protect brain health
Brain ailments like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis are linked with inflammation. Consuming coriander can safeguard against these three diseases. One study found that coriander extract can protect against nerve-cell damage. Coriander leaves can improve memory and manage anxiety.
It can improve digestion and gut health
The oil extract from coriander seeds can accelerate and promote healthy digestion. One study found that 30 drops of a coriander-containing herbal medication when given to people suffering from IBS significantly decreased abdominal pain, bloating, discomfort and pain. It's used as an appetite stimulant in traditional Iranian medicine.
Improves vision
Coriander leaves are densely rich in Vitamin A and a carotenoid class of antioxidants that improve eyesight. They are also effective in healing conjunctivitis and macular and age-related degenerative disorders of the vision.
May help treat liver dysfunction
The heavy amounts of alkaloids and flavonoids in coriander leaves can assist in curing liver ailments like bile disorders and jaundice.
Helps fight infection
Coriander has antimicrobial compounds that can help fight infection and foodborne illnesses. Dodecenal in coriander can help fight bacteria like Salmonella, which can lead to life-threatening food poisoning and affects a huge population.
Protects your skin
Coriander can save your skin from mild rashes and dermatitis. It can be used as an alternative treatment for skin ailments like rashes.
It can also prevent cellular damage that can lead to accelerated skin ageing and skin damage from ultraviolet B radiation.