Coriander, or dhania, is a staple ingredient in every Indian household. While coriander leaves are used as a garnish on savoury dishes, its seeds (in the form of powder) are often used in cooking to give the dish a flavourful and zesty taste. But apart from that, many people swear by drinking coriander water to boost their health.
This drink is prepared by soaking coriander seeds in a cup of drinking water overnight. The next day, all you have to do is strain the seeds and have the water. This simple home remedy is said to have several benefits, some of which are listed below:
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Immunity-Boosting Benefits
Coriander comes from the Coriandrum sativum plant, related to the family of parsley, carrots, and celery. Its seeds are known for their abundance of nutrients, such as vitamin K, C, and A, and antioxidants, all of which help boost the immune system. Vitamin C, in particular, is considered one of the biggest immune system boosters of all, which helps fight off infections and also prevents illnesses.
Additionally, the antioxidants in coriander help fight inflammation and prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals.
May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels
People with high blood sugar levels are often at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. While consulting a doctor is the best way to tackle it, drinking coriander water may provide some benefits and may help reduce blood sugar levels in the body.
An animal study published in the journal Food Chemistry found that the use of coriander powder in rats significantly lowered blood sugar levels and increased liver glycogen stores compared to the control group. These findings suggest that coriander may increase the body's use of glucose for energy and help store excess glucose as glycogen in the liver, the researchers noted.
However, more research conducted on humans is needed to prove the same.
May Support Heart Health
Heart health has become a top priority for most people. While drinking coriander water may not be the most advisable measure, researchers have found some evidence that it can be beneficial. According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Biology, rats given coriander seeds had a significant decrease in "bad" Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and VLDL cholesterol and an increase in "good" High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. However, more research is needed.
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Good For Digestion
Coriander has a good amount of fibre, which is known for its digestive benefits. From alleviating common stomach-related symptoms, such as bloating and gas, to preventing major issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and constipation, fibre has several advantages. In fact, a study published in the journal Digestive Diseases and Sciences found that 30 drops of a coriander-containing herbal medication taken three times a day significantly reduced abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort in people with IBS.
Conclusion
Coriander is an easy-to-use ingredient that has a strong aromatic presence. It not only adds flavour to foods but can be used conveniently in different forms. Sipping on coriander water also offers several health benefits, like lowering blood sugar levels and aiding digestion. However, it is important to note that depending solely on coriander to boost health is not advisable. If you have any health issues, it is best to consult a doctor to facilitate effective treatment.