Any chance we can take to add more greens to our diet is likely a good thing. Cilantro, also known as coriander or Chinese parsley, is a versatile herb that is widely used in culinary dishes around the world. Not only does it add a distinctive flavor and aroma to all kinds of food, it confers and array health benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, cilantro has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties; today, scientists have confirmed that cilantro does indeed possess many nutrients and its consumption facilitates many processes in the body that both promote health and make it worth including in our diet.
Cilantro is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Cilantro is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. Additionally, cilantro contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for various bodily functions, including immune system support, collagen production, and maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
Cilantro is rich in antioxidants.
Cilantro contains a wide range of antioxidants, including quercetin, kaempferol, and beta-carotene. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, promoting overall health and vitality. These also contribute to cilantro’s known anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is associated with several diseases, including arthritis, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Cilantro contains specific compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.
Cilantro is detoxifying.
Cilantro contains natural compounds that can help eliminate heavy metals like lead, mercury, and aluminum from the body. These heavy metals can accumulate over time and may have adverse effects on our health. Studies have shown that cilantro can bind to these metals and aid in removing them from the body. Cilantro is also thought to promote healthy liver function, which is one our body’s important detoxifying organs.
Cilantro is anti-microbial, and anti-fungal.
Cilantro has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It contains certain compounds that can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. This makes it beneficial in preventing and treating various infections and particularly useful for those on The Kaufmann Diet. It contains a compound called dodecenal, which has been shown to have antibacterial properties that can help fight against Salmonella, a common cause of food-borne illnesses.
Especially given its anti-fungal properties, cilantro is definitely something you would want to add into your Kaufmann Diet. Use it as a garnish in salads, soups, and curries, or blended into smoothies and sauces. You can also add it to freshly-squeezed juices, concentrating the nutrients therein. Juice cilantro along with carrots, garlic, ginger and other greens for an anti-fungal, detoxifying juice.
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