Coriander - Coriandrum sativum - Also called Cilantro
Coriander is a small
annual plant with a finely grooved stem which grows 1 to 2 feet high. The
lower leaves are cleft and lobed, and the upper leaves are finely dissected.
It flowers from June to August with white to reddish flowers. The seeds are
brownish in colour and have a disagreeable smell until they ripen . At this
time, the seeds take on their spicy, fresh aroma which is used as a
deodorant and aphrodisiac.
Coriander has antispasmodic, appetizer,
aromatic, carminative and stomachic properties. It can be applied externally
to relieve the symptoms of rheumatism and painful joints. It is also useful
for improving the flavour of other medicinal preparations.