Popular Asian Spices – Coriander

The coriander is considered as one of the most popular Asian spices used worldwide. It really is a native of the Mediterranean but, in ancient times, it reached Asia. It is a favorite spice used to augment the flavors of meats, grains and vegetables. It is known by several names: Chinese parsley and cilantro.
Asian Spices (Coriander) And Modern Medicine
For hundreds of years, people who became familiar with the spice learned quickly that its sweet and spicy but woody aroma had a peppery taste that complimented meats. To heighten the flavors of bland grains and not so flavorful vegetables, all they needed to do was sprinkle the ground spice over the dishes. However, as more and more people became familiar with the use of the spice, soon there were evidences that any who were experiencing migraines benefited from coriander-spiced foods. Those who had indigestion also benefited from this spice when sprinkled into their teas. Soon, the pharmaceutical world studied the medicinal benefits and discovered that it could be tapped to aid in common ailments like headaches and indigestion.
In the modern world, the coriander is still as popular as ever as a food flavoring but it is also a popular pharmaceutical ingredient used in the manufacture of medicines for, obviously, headaches, migraines, indigestion, flatulence, and rheumatism. Primarily, this spice flavors the medicines so it is more palatable. Compared to other compounds used for pharmaceutical preparations, it does not cause irritations.
For those who do want to use this spice as a natural remedy, all they need to do is chew on its seeds or make a tea out of the seeds. This is a good natural remedy for flatulence and mild stomach upset. For those who want to find natural relief for their rheumatism, the seeds can be pounded and combined with water as a tea preparation or the seed can be pounded into a paste and applied directly on the painful area. To add to the pasty consistency, a mixture of oatmeal and water can be made.
But the seeds are not the only ones with medicinal properties. The leaves contains fiber, magnesium and potassium. Regular consumption of the leaves steeped in hot water as tea is seen to be an immune booster and blood purifier. It can help in the stimulation of insulin and can help in the prevention and control of diabetes.
The leaves, just like the seeds, can be pound and made into a paste that can be applied directly on the forehead and temples to help alleviate headaches. It is best to rest when applying this paste. The leaves can also be chewed to help relieve mouth ulcers. A handful of leaves chewed in the mouth for several minutes can be done up to three times a day for several days.
As could be seen, spices may be primarily used as flavorings for food but these also have invaluable medicinal properties. Coriander is one of the most popular Asian spices used in meats, but its medicinal properties just made it even more popular and invaluable.

Posted Wednesday, March 14th, 2012 under Asian Spices, Heath Benifits.

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