Cilantro Extract
Also known as: Coriandrum sativum L. Extract, Cilantro Extract, Coriander Extract, Chinese Parsley Extract
Overview
Cilantro extract is derived from the leaves and sometimes roots of the *Coriandrum sativum* plant, a common culinary herb. It contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils, notably α-linalool. The extract is primarily investigated for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, and anticancer properties. Preclinical studies, including in vitro and animal models, suggest promising effects, particularly related to metabolic health and cancer cell inhibition. However, human clinical trials are limited, and systematic reviews and meta-analyses are needed to confirm these benefits and establish safe dosing guidelines. Cilantro extract is available in various forms, including liquid extracts, capsules, and powders, often marketed as a dietary supplement.
Benefits
Cilantro extract demonstrates several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research: * **Metabolic Health:** Animal studies suggest that cilantro leaf extract may ameliorate metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) by reducing body and liver weight, improving serum lipid profiles, and decreasing liver damage markers. A 2024 study in mice found that oral administration of cilantro extract activated the AMPK pathway, a key regulator of energy metabolism. * **Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects:** Coriander contains antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may contribute to anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects. These effects are supported by in vitro and animal studies, suggesting a potential role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. * **Anticancer Potential:** In vitro studies indicate that coriander root extract, rich in α-linalool, can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of human gastric cancer cells. This effect is potentially mediated through the inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and β-catenin pathways. However, these findings are preliminary and require validation in in vivo models and human clinical trials.
How it works
Cilantro extract's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. Its metabolic effects are partly attributed to the activation of the AMPK pathway, which regulates energy metabolism and reduces lipid accumulation in the liver. The antioxidant activity of flavonoids and phenolic compounds helps scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Anticancer effects, particularly from α-linalool in coriander root extract, involve modulating EMT and β-catenin signaling pathways, inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and migration. These mechanisms are primarily based on preclinical studies and require further investigation in human models.
Side effects
Cilantro extract is generally considered safe when consumed in culinary amounts. However, comprehensive safety data on concentrated extracts are limited. Animal studies using doses up to 200 mg/kg/day have not reported significant toxicity. Potential side effects and safety considerations include: * **Allergic Reactions:** Sensitive individuals may experience allergic reactions to cilantro. * **Lack of Human Data:** High-quality human safety data on standardized extracts are currently lacking. * **Drug Interactions:** No documented drug interactions or contraindications have been reported from clinical studies, but caution is advised when combining with other medications or supplements. Due to the limited safety data, it is advisable to start with low doses and monitor for any adverse effects. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Apiaceae family (e.g., celery, carrots) should exercise caution.
Dosage
Due to the limited number of human clinical trials, there are no established human dosing guidelines for cilantro extract. Effective doses in animal models range from 100 to 200 mg/kg/day orally. However, these doses cannot be directly translated to human dosages. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosages, bioavailability, and appropriate formulations for human use. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using cilantro extract as a supplement. Until more data is available, it is prudent to start with a low dose and gradually increase it while monitoring for any adverse effects.
FAQs
Is cilantro extract effective for liver health?
Preclinical evidence suggests potential benefits in fatty liver disease models, primarily in animals. However, human trials are needed to confirm these effects and establish efficacy.
Can cilantro extract help with cancer?
In vitro studies show potential anticancer effects, particularly in inhibiting the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells. However, clinical relevance and efficacy in humans are currently unknown.
Is it safe to consume cilantro extract?
Culinary use of cilantro is generally safe. However, the safety of concentrated cilantro extract supplements requires further research and should be approached with caution.
What is the active component in cilantro extract?
Cilantro extract contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils such as α-linalool, which contribute to its potential health benefits.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/23/4165 – This study investigated the effects of oral cilantro leaf extract on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in high-fat diet-induced mice. Results showed that cilantro extract significantly reduced body and liver weight, improved serum lipid profiles, and decreased liver damage markers. The study identified activation of the AMPK pathway as a potential mechanism, suggesting benefits for metabolic health, but is limited by its animal model.
- https://www.ijbcp.com/index.php/ijbcp/article/view/5839 – This comprehensive review summarized the pharmacological actions of coriander, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic effects, based on preclinical and limited clinical evidence. The review highlighted the need for more randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to confirm the efficacy and safety of coriander in humans. It underscores the potential benefits while acknowledging the current lack of robust human data.
- https://ccij-online.org/storage/files/article/b1286329-96b0-4d22-b1b2-255ce3756fae-g2JV4Owz1Tgu30BM/yTO7fZqXxUAfz8w.pdf – This study examined the effects of coriander root extract containing α-linalool on human gastric cancer BGC-823 cells in vitro. The extract inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells by suppressing EMT and β-catenin signaling. While the study was well-controlled, its findings are limited to cell culture and require validation in in vivo models to confirm anticancer potential.
- https://jurnalfkip.unram.ac.id/index.php/JBT/article/view/5610 – This article discusses the potential of coriander as a medicinal plant, highlighting its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It reviews various studies that support the traditional uses of coriander for treating different ailments. The article emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand and validate the therapeutic potential of coriander.
