Dhania

Dhania, commonly called coriander, is an annual herb belonging to the family of Apiaceae, scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum. It is grown largely for its leaves, seeds, and roots, which have substantial health benefits. Dhania leaves, mostly coriander leaves, are used fresh, while its seeds are used whole or in powdered form as dhania powder. This plant is a medicinal herb and is consumed for centuries. Full of essential oils, vitamins, and antioxidants, dhania promotes health, and several diseases are treated with coriander.

Source of Dhania

Dhania is a tropical crop from Southern Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. Today, the crop is cultivated worldwide, and India forms one of the prominent production countries of coriander.

Dhania has a different name in different parts of the world and cultures. Commonly, its names are used as:

• Coriander (English)
• Cilantro (Spanish)
• Chinese Parsley (Common in Asian cuisine)
• Dhaniya (Hindi)
• Kothmir (Marathi)
• Malli (Tamil)

Coriander is very nutrient-dense, and both its seeds and leaves contain a good number of nutrients. Here is a summary of some of the nutrients found per 100 grams of fresh coriander leaves:

Dhania, or coriander, is a herb known to provide medicinal properties. It's a powerhouse of health that addresses different ailments, particularly digestive, muscular, and inflammatory conditions. Let's explore some key health benefits that make dhania a vital component of traditional and modern medicine.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

One of the most incredible benefits of using dhania is its ability to support the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which is so common in people. The anti-inflammatory and carminative functions of dhania tend to soothe the digestive tract, helping to relieve symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. Dhania supports digestion correctly by stimulating the secretion of digestive enzymes and juices, which would calm the discomfort IBS brings. 

Taking dhania water or coriander-infused teas daily reduces the occurrence and intensity of symptoms related to IBS and, therefore, serves as a natural alternative that improves gut health.

Appetite Stimulant

Dhania also serves as an excellent appetite stimulant. It is extremely useful for an individual suffering from a poor appetite attached to a disease or chronic illness. Stimulating digestive enzymes and gastric secretions caused by coriander increases hunger and improves overall digestive function. This is particularly good for patients who are recovering from disease, children due to their appetite-suppressing action, and patients suffering from diseases such as anorexia. Mixing fresh coriander leaves into salads and soups or taking the dhaniya powder with food helps stimulate a natural increase in appetite, thereby enhancing nutrient uptake.

Muscle Spasm

Coriander has been used traditionally to relieve spasms and cramps produced by the muscles due to its muscle relaxing and anti-inflammatory action. The muscle cramping due to dehydration, strenuous exercise, or fibromyalgia is immensely distressing. As a powder or decoction, Dhania seeds soothe the muscles, diminish erratic action, and tend to lessen the ache. Thus, coriander serves as an ideal medication for those prone to experiencing spasms repeatedly, sportspersons, and individuals who lack magnesium, as it is also said to calm down the muscles.

Worm Infections

Dhania possesses antiparasitic properties, which help control  worm infections. Additionally , coriander seeds have properties that remove parasitic worms from the body; among them are roundworms and tapeworms. 

Intake of coriander seeds or regular drinking of dhaniya water can facilitate the elimination of these parasites from your digestive system. Its antimicrobial properties do not only cure existing infestations but also safeguard against the recurrence of parasitic infestation- especially in regions with such cases. This herbal remedy is beneficial for children and adults who are susceptible to developing intestinal parasites.

Joint Pain

The anti-inflammatory property of this herb makes it one of the precious herbs that can manage ailments associated with joint pain, especially in arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Coriander reduces swelling of the joints and relieves the pain felt by arthritis, rheumatism, and inflammation of the joints. 

Dhania acts by inhibiting the formation of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body. This helps it produce an alleviating effect against the pains and stiffness associated with pain. Applying coriander oil on affected parts or oral consumption of coriander seed extract may assist in bringing down joint pains and enhancing mobility. It is a natural substitute for over-the-counter painkillers.

Dhania is not only an aromatic enhancer but is also an excellent home remedy for various health conditions. It has been used extensively in cooking, with both its leaves and seeds serving various culinary purposes. The fresh leaves can be added to salads, and used as garnishes for soups, stews, and rice dishes, providing a fresh, citrusy flavour that complements Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Coriander seeds can also be utilised as a spice in curries, pickles, and baked goods, and their antimicrobial properties make them effective for food preservation through pickling. Moreover,it acts on multiple body systems and can be used as a home remedy for various ailments So, let us discuss its uses in the context of the human body.

Use of Dhania for the Digestive System

Dhania is very beneficial for digestive purposes. The natural herb promotes easy digestion, erases bloating, and soothes stomach aches. Here are some of the primary uses:

• It facilitates digestion: Dhania aids the production of secretions related to digestive juices and enzymes that aid easy digestion and proper breakdown.
• It decreases bloating: Dhania relieves gas and bloating due to its carminative action.
• It eases indigestion: Dhania water helps the gut system in case of stomach cramps.

Use of Dhania for the Respiratory System

Coriander has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It does wonders for one's health.

• Manages cough and cold: The essential oils of coriander seed help decrease the symptoms of cough and cold.
• Respiratory congestion clearness: Dhania functions as an expectorant that removes mucus and reduces irritation in the respiratory tract.

Use of Dhania for the Skin

Dhania is one of the home remedies for skin problems. This herb is used both during face packs and scrubs.

• May help control acne: The antibacterial part of coriander helps control acne and infection-causing skin problems.
• Moisturizes skin: Coriander leaves are full of antioxidants that help prevent oxidative stress; therefore, the skin glows.
• Sores and redness relief: Dhania paste can be applied to the affected area as it calms the irritation of the skin and redness from it.

Use of Dhania for the Central Nervous System

The neuroprotective properties of coriander make it an excellent herb for maintaining the health of the central nervous system.

• Eases anxiety: There have been studies that confirm extracts from the plant reduce symptoms associated with anxiety and stress.
• It enhances memory. Dhania is said to enhance cognitive functions and memory retention.

Use of Dhania for the Eyes

Coriander leaves contain vitamin A, with antioxidants that prove better for the eyes.

• Reduces the risk of macular degeneration: Vitamin A content reduces age-related macular degeneration due to the high content.
• Relieves irritation: Dhania juice helps combat eye infections and reduces redness when applied around the eyes.

Use of Dhania as a Diuretic

Dhania is an herbal diuretic that will keep the kidneys' health intact while also cleansing the body.

• It lessens excess fluid retention: The body will enjoy dhania water's rewards to induce urination and reduce extra water retention.
• It will detox your body, purifying all the dangerous toxins and diminishing the risk of urinary tract infection.

Use of Dhania for Diabetes

Coriander assists in regulating blood sugar; therefore, it is one of the remedies for ruling out diabetes.

• Lower blood sugar: Dhania seeds have been shown to reduce blood glucose levels and stimulate insulin release from the pancreas.
• Increases insulin sensitivity: Dhania increases the body's sensitivity towards the action of insulin, thus controlling blood sugar spiking.

Use of Dhania as an Antimicrobial Agent

Coriander is an herb that holds potent antimicrobial activity. Hence, it can be used to manage various infections.

• Intervention of bacterial infections: The herb's antimicrobial constituent helps combat harmful bacteria and stops food poisoning.
• Useful in fungal infections: Dhania extracts also helps manage skin and nail fungus infections.

Use of Dhania for Cholesterol Management

The Coriander seeds are said to reduce cholesterol levels and promote healthy hearts.

• Lower bad cholesterol: Dhania increases HDL or good cholesterol levels while decreasing LDL or bad cholesterol.
• Supports Heart Health: Lowering cholesterol and ensuring that the heart functions well, dhania helps minimise the risks of cardiovascular diseases.

Dhania is safe for consumption but with a few guidelines to be followed:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your health care provider before using dhania in medicinal amounts if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Diabetes: It lowers blood sugar levels, so people on medication for diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels.
• Kidney disease: Patients suffering from kidney disease should use coriander cautiously because it is a diuretic.
• Alcohol: Those individuals who take alcohol should not take over an excessive amount of dhania as it may cause some reaction to the effects of alcohol.

1. As Spice in Preparation

Dhania, be it dhania powder or fresh leaves, is considered a spice widely applied in several cuisines. Flavour, aroma, and nutritional strength characterise its presentation to the dish, while the rich nutrient content enhances digestion.

How to use:

• 1-2 teaspoons of dhania powder can be used in curries, soups, marinades, or any preparation during cooking
• Fresh coriander leaves can be applied as a garnish for the dish.
• Dhania can flavour salads, stir-fries, lentils, and drinks like buttermilk.

2. For Digestive Health

Dhania helps digest. It is thus helpful for bloating, indigestion, and IBS. Drinking water steeped with coriander sets the digestion right and calms the stomach.

How to use:

• Submerse 1-2 teaspoons of coriander seeds in water and keep it there overnight
• Filter the water and drink it in the morning to boost your digestion.
• This dhaniya water is taken daily to ensure an effective digestive system.

3. As a Part of Skincare

Dhania, being anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, is excellent for the skin. It calms rashes, clears acne, and gives you a smooth complexion.

How to use:

• Crush fresh coriander leaves. Apply to the skin. Keep it on for 10-15 minutes. Then, wash off with cool water.
• This mask cleans the skin, reduces inflammation, and fights acne naturally.

• Fresh leaves: 10-20 gms per day
• Dhaniya powder: 1-2 tsp. a day
• Coriander seeds: 1-2 tsp. Soaked in water or the meal.

• Dhania is a versatile herb that can be used medicinally and for cooking.
• It improves digestion, skin, and respiratory functions and helps in diabetic control.
• Dhania has antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties
• Always seek the doctor's advice before consuming dhania if one is pregnant and suffering from specific medical conditions.
• The best part of the dhania is that it can be consumed in fresh leaves and seeds and as a powder.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dhania, or coriander, is much more than a kitchen staple. It is a powerful herb valued for its culinary and medicinal benefits. From aiding digestion to managing blood sugar and boosting immunity, dhania plays a significant role in promoting overall health. Its presence in both traditional remedies and everyday cooking highlights its versatility and importance. Whether used as fresh leaves or dried seeds, incorporating dhania into your daily routine is an easy and natural way to enhance flavour and support well-being.