Last verified: today
Coriander
Also known as: Coriandrum sativum, cilantro, coriander seed, dhania
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Culinary herb with early evidence for anti-inflammatory and lipid benefits, but human data is very limited.
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What it does
Coriander is a common culinary herb and spice derived from the Coriandrum sativum plant, used in both cooking and traditional medicine. Early human studies suggest that coriander seed powder...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose for humans based on provided studies
What the Science Says
Coriander is a common culinary herb and spice derived from the Coriandrum sativum plant, used in both cooking and traditional medicine. Early human studies suggest that coriander seed powder (around 2 g/day) may modestly improve cholesterol levels and blood pressure in people with high lipids, and that spice blends containing coriander may reduce post-meal inflammatory markers. Most of the stronger evidence comes from animal or lab studies, so human benefits are not yet firmly established.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to detox heavy metals in humans — that nanoparticle research was done in mice. No evidence it boosts milk supply in breastfeeding women on its own. Won't meaningfully treat cardiovascular disease by itself. No solid human data supporting cognitive or mood benefits from supplements.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May modestly improve cholesterol and triglycerides in people with high lipid levels at 2 g/day.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 2 g/day (seed powder)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Part of a spice blend that reduced inflammatory markers after a high-fat, high-carb meal.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 6 g spice blend (coriander is one of 13 spices)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Coriander marinade reduced cancer-linked compounds formed during charcoal grilling by up to 92%.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 1% extract marinade (lab/food study)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most promising research (nanoparticles, aquaculture, animal models) does not apply to human supplement use
- Human trials are very small (n=12 to n=80) and often test coriander as part of a blend, not alone
- Coriander grown in contaminated soil can accumulate heavy metals like cadmium and arsenic — sourcing matters
- Breastfeeding safety study found no harm but also no benefit from a multi-herb tea containing coriander — do not assume it is a proven galactagogue
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Coriander do?
Culinary herb with early evidence for anti-inflammatory and lipid benefits, but human data is very limited.
What is the effective dose of Coriander?
No established dose for humans based on provided studies
Is Coriander safe?
Most promising research (nanoparticles, aquaculture, animal models) does not apply to human supplement use
What doesn't Coriander do?
Not proven to detox heavy metals in humans — that nanoparticle research was done in mice.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-09-09