The Health Benefits of Cilantro Leaves and Stems

Cilantro is a versatile herb that adds flavor and fragrance to a variety of foods. It is known as a potent anti-oxidant, promoting heart health and immune function. It also contains nutrients like vitamins C, A, B2, K and minerals such as iron and potassium.

The leaves and stems of this herb have a savory, earthy aroma that is perfect for a variety of dishes. They can be used as a garnish for soups and stews, stirred into salads or added to steamed vegetables and other dishes that need a little freshness.

It is an easy, inexpensive and tasty way to add a pop of flavor to your meals. It is a good addition to Mexican and Tex-Mex food as well as Indian, Asian and Mediterranean cuisines.

Stored properly, cilantro can keep for up to 3 weeks. The best way to store it is to wash it completely and dry thoroughly before storing in the refrigerator.

First, rinse the cilantro thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt, dust or other debris. Don’t use bleach or other strong solutions as it can make you sick.

Next, dry the cilantro with paper towels or a salad spinner. You can also lay them out on a baking sheet to dry completely and then store in an airtight container.

You can then chop it into fine or coarse pieces using a sharp knife, just like you would any other vegetable. When chopping cilantro leaves, you want to do it as gently as possible to prevent any bruising.

Leaves are the most tender and flavorful part of the cilantro plant, but stems are edible and can be used to make chutneys, broths or soups. You can even freeze them for longer shelf life.

Stems are a good source of fiber and protein, as well as vitamin C, A, B2, K and minerals like iron and copper. They are also high in antioxidants and contain a range of beneficial phytonutrients that promote heart health.

Adding these herbs to your diet can help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as balance your blood sugar. It can also reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress, which can be linked to cancers, Alzheimer’s and eye diseases.

The health benefits of this herb are many and include a boost in energy, weight loss, better digestion and more. It can also improve skin and hair health.

It is also known to relieve indigestion, heartburn and stomach cramps. It can also be taken to reduce the effects of anxiety and improve sleep.

If you have diabetes, cilantro can help balance your blood sugar levels by reducing your cravings for sweets and starchy foods. It is also an excellent natural diuretic, which can help your body excrete more fluid.

It can also aid in detoxification and elimination of heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium from the body. The antioxidants in this herb promote the production of digestive enzymes that help relieve bloating, gas and stomach cramps. It can also support a healthy liver and kidney system.