Coriander: The Divisive Herb With Surprisingly Powerful Health Benefits
(World-Today-News.com) – Jakarta, Indonesia – Coriander. The very name evokes strong reactions.Some adore its luminous, citrusy flavor, finding it essential in salsas, curries, and salads. Others? They say it tastes like soap. This isn’t just a matter of preference; it’s rooted in genetics. But beyond the debate over taste, coriander (also known as ketumbar in Indonesian) boasts a remarkable array of health benefits, positioning it as a potent “functional food” with a history stretching back millennia.
The “Soap” Gene: Why some Can’t Stand coriander
Approximately 4-14% of the population, particularly those of European descent, possess a genetic variation that causes them to perceive coriander as soapy. “For others, these green leaves feel like fresh herbs,” explains Brooke Baevsky, a private chef and CEO of Kitchen with Chef Bae. This genetic predisposition impacts how certain aldehyde compounds in coriander are detected by olfactory receptors.
But for those who can enjoy its flavor, coriander offers a wealth of advantages.
A Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Agent
Recent research highlights coriander’s notable anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammatory diseases are linked to over half of all deaths globally, according to the Cleveland Clinic, and coriander may play a role in mitigating this risk.
Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidant compounds,coriander actively combats inflammation linked to autoimmune diseases,neurodegenerative conditions,gastrointestinal issues,heart disease,and even certain cancers. A 2023 study by Italian researchers found that “thanks to the bioactivity of coriander extract, this herb can be considered a valuable functional food to fight obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.”
Blood Sugar Control & Neurological Benefits
Coriander’s benefits extend to managing blood sugar levels