5. Protects Against Cardiovascular Disease
According to the American Heart Association, a diet rich in potassium is an important part of controlling blood pressure because it lessens the effects of sodium on the body.(8)
High blood pressure increases your risk for heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and thickening of the heart muscle. In addition to helping lower blood pressure, cilantro benefits actually helps to dissolve cholesterol build up in the arteries, protecting against atherosclerosis and heart disease.
In the same study reference above about diabetes, researchers indicated that cilantro lowers total cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.(7) Another study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology found that cilantro’s rich polyphenolic content and natural cardio-protective nutrients are responsible with preventing the oxidative damage that is specifically associated with cardiac damage and is able to prevent myocardial infarctions.(8)
Lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol, and protecting against damage associated with cardiac impairment – easy to see why we should all enjoy more cilantro.
6. Prevents Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections may be caused by E. coli, staphylococcus bacteria, sexual activity, genetics, or diabetes. Cilantro’s antibacterial compounds help to keep the urinary tract healthy, and free from unhealthy bacteria in a healthy alkaline environment. In addition to cilantro, coriander seeds are helpful in relieving symptoms, if a UTI does occur.
Simply soak 1 ½ teaspoons of dried coriander seeds overnight in 2 cups of water. Strain and drink, or just add to your morning smoothie. It will help relieve the discomfort and pain associated with the UTI, and help to speed your healing.
7. Settles Digestive Upset
Cilantro has been used throughout the world for thousands of years to settle nauseous tummies, prevent gas and bloating, relieve indigestion and heartburn, and ease stomach cramps. It aids in efficient digestion, by helping to produce digestive enzymes that aid in the breakdown of foods. In many cuisines, fresh cilantro accompanies hot and spicy dishes because of its cooling effects.
Hot curry dishes, green chili, and spicy Thai noodle dishes all are better tolerated by many people with the simple addition of just a touch of fresh chopped cilantro. This cooling effect can help prevent heartburn after spicy meals. If gas or bloating is a problem, try adding chopped cilantro as a garnish for legume dishes, and to salads.
8. Protects Against Food Poisoning
Cilantro benefits not only detox the body but also protect it from infection and toxins. Its natural antibacterial properties helps to protect against both food and water borne diseases including food poisoning, dysentery, salmonella, cholera, and particularly listeria. Research published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology studied dill, coriander, eucalyptus, and found that cilantro was particularly effective in fighting listeria.(9)
9. Supports Healthy Menstrual Function
Coriander seeds from cilantro actually helps to support healthy menstrual function by helping regulate proper endocrine gland function, and the hormones that regulate menstrual cycles. In addition, coriander can help reduce the bloating, cramps, and pain during the cycle.
10. Prevents Neurological Inflammation
Neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, MS, and certain brain tumors are associated with chronic inflammation. A study published in Molecular Neurobiology found that diets high in turmeric, pepper, clove, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, and coriander, helped to prevent the inflammation associated with these devastating diseases.
Researchers noted that lifestyle factors of individuals with diets rich in these nutrients showed lower incidences of neurological degeneration.(10)
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