Coriander Seeds

Coriander grows wild over a wide area of the Near East and southern Europe, prompting the comment, "It is hard to define exactly where this plant is wild and where it only recently established itself. The word coriander in food preparation may refer solely to these seeds (as a spice), rather than to the plant. The seeds have a lemony citrus flavor when crushed, due to terrenes linalool and pinene . It is described as warm, nutty, spicy, and orange-flavored.

It is commonly found both as whole dried seeds and in ground form. Seeds can be roasted or heated on a dry pan briefly before grinding to enhance and alter the aroma. Ground coriander seed loses flavour quickly in storage and is best ground fresh.

Coriander seeds as well as fresh coriander leaves help in healthy digestion. It has anti-oxidant properties which promotes healthy functioning of the liver and bowel movements. Coriander is a rich source of many essential vitamins like folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin A and beta carotene. Coriander is quite effective for curing various skin diseases like eczema, itchy skin, rashes and inflammation.