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Coriander Extract

Also known as: Coriander, Cilantro, Chinese parsley, Coriander extract, Coriandrum sativum

Overview

Coriander extract is derived from the seeds, leaves, or roots of *Coriandrum sativum*, a widely used culinary herb. It is rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and essential oils, particularly α-linalool. This extract is primarily recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective, and metabolic regulatory properties. While extensive in vitro and animal studies support these effects, large-scale human clinical trials are limited. The research quality varies, with many studies being preclinical or small-scale, indicating a moderate level of evidence maturity. It is considered a functional food and phytochemical extract.

Benefits

Coriander extract offers several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical and some human studies. Its strong **antioxidant effects** are well-documented, with polyphenols like caffeic acid and protocatechuic acid reducing oxidative stress markers and enhancing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) in animal models and human lymphocytes. This is a robust area of research for coriander. **Cardiovascular benefits** have been observed in animal studies, where seed extracts improved hemodynamic parameters (SBP, DBP, HR, MAP) and showed cardioprotective effects, likely through antioxidant mechanisms. The evidence for this is moderate, based on animal models. **Anticancer potential** has been suggested by in vitro studies, with α-linalool from coriander root inhibiting the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells; however, this evidence is preliminary and requires in vivo and human validation. Furthermore, coriander extract shows promise in improving metabolic parameters and reducing obesity-related oxidative stress in animal models, indicating potential for **metabolic syndrome and diabetes management**. While effect sizes are mostly from animal studies, the consistent findings across various preclinical models suggest a strong biological basis for these benefits.

How it works

Coriander extract exerts its effects primarily through its potent **antioxidant activity**, achieved by directly scavenging reactive oxygen species and upregulating the body's endogenous antioxidant enzyme systems. Its **anti-inflammatory effects** are mediated by modulating cytokine production and inhibiting key inflammatory pathways. For cardiovascular health, the extract likely promotes vasodilation, reduces oxidative damage to myocardial tissue, and influences calcium handling within cardiac cells. At a molecular level, its compounds interact with oxidative stress pathways, influence mitochondrial function, and can modulate cell cycle regulators, particularly in cancer cells. The bioavailability of its active compounds, such as polyphenols and essential oils, varies, with seed extracts generally containing higher concentrations of these beneficial constituents.

Side effects

Coriander extract is generally considered safe, with animal studies indicating low toxicity. However, comprehensive human safety data, especially regarding long-term use, is limited. While not well-documented, mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in some individuals. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been reported in high-quality human studies. Specific safety data for vulnerable populations such as pregnant or lactating women and children are lacking, and therefore, caution is advised for these groups. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those on medication should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Dosage

Currently, there is no standardized or universally established dosage for coriander extract due to a lack of high-quality human randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Animal studies have utilized a wide range of doses, which are not directly translatable to humans. The concentration of active compounds in the extract can vary significantly depending on the plant part used (seed, leaf, or root) and the specific preparation method. Therefore, efficacy and safety at specific human doses remain largely unconfirmed. Due to the lipophilic nature of some essential oils in coriander, absorption might be enhanced when consumed with fats. Users should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before determining an appropriate dosage, especially given the limited human data.

FAQs

Is coriander extract effective for hypertension?

Animal studies suggest potential benefits for hypertension by improving blood pressure parameters. However, robust human clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects and establish efficacy in humans.

Can it be used as an anticancer agent?

In vitro studies show promising anti-proliferative effects against cancer cells. However, this research is preliminary and requires further investigation in animal models and human clinical trials before any conclusions can be drawn about its use as an anticancer agent.

Is it safe for long-term use?

Limited human safety data exists for long-term use. While generally regarded as safe in culinary amounts, more research is needed to confirm the safety profile of concentrated extracts over extended periods.

Research Sources

https://ccij-online.org/storage/files/article/b1286329-96b0-4d22-b1b2-255ce3754fae-g2JV4Owz1Tgu30BM/yTO7fZqXxUAfz8w.pdf – This in vitro study investigated the effects of α-linalool, a compound from coriander root, on gastric cancer cells (BGC-823). It found that α-linalool dose-dependently inhibited the proliferation and migration of these cancer cells, suggesting potential anti-proliferative activity. The study provides preliminary evidence for coriander's anticancer potential at a cellular level.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10220854/ – This review synthesized findings from various animal and cell studies on coriander polyphenols and their antioxidant activity. It concluded that coriander significantly reduces oxidative stress markers and increases antioxidant enzyme activity in various models, highlighting its robust antioxidant properties. The review underscores the strong preclinical evidence for coriander's role in combating oxidative stress.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8747064/ – This animal randomized controlled trial examined the cardiovascular effects of *Coriandrum sativum* in male Wistar rats. The study reported that coriander extract improved key hemodynamic parameters such as systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure, demonstrating cardioprotective effects likely mediated by its antioxidant properties. It provides moderate evidence for coriander's cardiovascular benefits in an animal model.