Cilantro Leaf

History and Uses:
Although it has two names, Cilantro is a single plant; its leaves are known as Cilantro; the seeds are called Coriander, and both include many of the same medicinal benefits: They ease indigestion and prevent wound infection. Cilantro has a long history as a digestive aid. In Egypt, it has been found in pharaohs' tombs, presumably to prevent indigestion in the afterlife. While no one has been able to attest to its post-mortem healing properties, recent studies have supported its use as a stomach soother for both adults and colicky babies. What' s more, it has wound-healing benefits, which were first discovered by the ancient Romans, who used both the leaves and seeds to preserve meats. The herb contains an antioxidant that helps prevent animal fats from turning rancid. It also contains substances that kill meat-spoiling bacteria and fungi. These same substances in Cilantro may also prevent infection in wounds. The herb has been shown to improve tummy troubles of all kinds, from indigestion to flatulence to diarrhea. "Both Cilantro and Coriander have been shown to settle the stomach," says James A. Duke, Ph.D., a retired botanist from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and author of The CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Drink a cup of the tea when stomach discomfort strikes. Because Cilantro contains substances that kill certain bacteria and fungi, it thereby may prevent infections from developing in wounds. Intriguing new studies suggest that Cilantro has anti-inflammatory effects. Since the pain of arthritis is caused by inflammation, a cup of Cilantro tea may help that pain as well.