Cilantro extract

What is it?

Cilantro extract is derived from the leaves and stems of the cilantro plant (Coriandrum sativum), also known as coriander. It is used for its potential health benefits, including its detoxifying, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

How does it work for medicinal purposes?

Cilantro extract works through its bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils. These components contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, which support detoxification, improve digestion, and enhance overall health.

What are the active ingredients that are important for its medicinal properties?

The primary active ingredients in cilantro extract include:

• Linalool: An essential oil with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.
• Phenolic acids: Compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Particularly vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

What forms does it come in?

• Liquid extract
• Tincture
• Capsules
• Powder

What if I have an imbalance or deficiency?

There is no specific deficiency associated with cilantro extract itself. However, a diet lacking in antioxidants and essential oils found in cilantro may impact overall health and the body's ability to detoxify and fight inflammation.

When was it first used for medicinal purposes?

Cilantro has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times, dating back to Ancient Egypt, Persia, and Greece, where it was used for digestive and anti-inflammatory purposes.

What does Cilantro extract help with?

Cilantro is the leafy part of the coriander plant. People eat it as a herb and take it as an extract. Many cultures have used it for a long time, in food and in folk medicine.

• High blood sugar
  Early evidence — human studies on file, with no size or dose recorded. Human studies found lower fasting blood sugar in people taking cilantro extract. The same work suggested a better response to insulin. The file does not record how many people took part, or what dose they used.
  Evidence grade C · Traditional tier T3
• High cholesterol
  Early evidence — some clinical research, size and dose not on file. Some clinical research found small drops in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. HDL levels held steady in that work. The studies used cilantro seed and leaf products, and the changes were modest.
  Evidence grade C · Traditional tier T3
• High blood pressure
  Early evidence — early human research only, described as preliminary. Early human research found a mild drop in blood pressure. In lab work, cilantro relaxed blood vessels in a way that looks like a calcium channel blocker. It is also described as a mild diuretic, meaning it makes you pass more urine.
  Evidence grade C · Traditional tier T3
• Gas, bloating and belly cramps
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab work on linalool plus long traditional use; no human trial on file. In lab work, linalool from cilantro relaxed the muscle of the gut wall. Herbalists have used cilantro for centuries as a carminative, a herb for trapped gas. No human trial of this use is on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Heavy metal exposure and detox plans
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — binding work and practitioner use only; no human trial on file. Cilantro is the herb most often named in detox plans for lead, mercury and arsenic. The idea is that cilantro binds the metals, while chlorella holds them in the gut so they are not taken back up. No human trial on file tests whether this lowers metal levels in people.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Anxiety, tension and poor sleep
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — receptor lab work plus tradition; no human trial on file. In lab studies, linalool acted on GABA receptors in the brain. Some anti-anxiety drugs work on that same pathway. Cilantro has a long folk history for nerves and rest, but no human trial is on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Bacterial and fungal infections
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — laboratory tests on microbes only; no human trial on file. In lab tests, the volatile oils in cilantro slowed the growth of Salmonella and E. coli. Linalool and geraniol were the oils studied, and some fungal strains were also affected. Cooks have long used cilantro to help keep food fresh.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Inflammation and free radical damage
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab antioxidant work on quercetin and rutin; no human trial on file. Cilantro holds the flavonoids quercetin and rutin. In lab studies, these mopped up free radicals and damped down inflammatory signals. No human trial of cilantro for this use is on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Acne and red, irritated skin
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — Ayurvedic tradition plus lab work on the oils; no human skin trial on file. Ayurvedic skin blends have long included cilantro. In lab work, its oils slowed bacteria, including kinds tied to acne. No human skin trial, applied or taken by mouth, is on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3

What Cilantro extract has not been shown to do

• No human trial on file shows that cilantro pulls lead, mercury or arsenic out of the body.
• It has not been shown to take the place of medicine for diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
• The blood sugar and cholesterol studies found modest shifts, and were run alongside diet change, not on their own.
• No human trial on file shows that it eases anxiety or helps you sleep.
• No human trial on file shows that it clears acne or calms red skin.
• Killing microbes in a dish is not the same as treating an infection; no human trial on file shows it treats one.
• No human trial on file shows that it relieves bloating or gas in people.

How to read this:

Each use gets its own grade, because the studies behind them differ. A means many good human trials agree. B means at least one good human trial. C means small or early human studies. D means the human evidence is weak or mixed. Insufficient means no human study at all, just lab work, animal work or tradition. This page lists options and what studies found. It is not advice, and it is not a claim that cilantro treats anything. Talk with your own clinician before you change any medicine.

Which conditions and symptoms does it help prevent?

Cilantro extract can help prevent:

1. Oxidative Stress: Antioxidant properties combat oxidative damage, preventing cell damage. Studies confirm its effectiveness in reducing oxidative stress markers.
2. Chronic Inflammation: Prevents low-grade chronic inflammation, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Research shows significant anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Cardiovascular Disease: Supports heart health by improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Clinical trials indicate a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Digestive Disorders: Prevents digestive issues by promoting healthy gut function. Studies suggest improved gastrointestinal health with regular consumption.
5. Infections: Prevents bacterial and fungal infections due to its antimicrobial properties. Research confirms its effectiveness in inhibiting pathogen growth.
6. Diabetes: Helps prevent the development of type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. Studies indicate improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
7. Skin Disorders: Prevents skin conditions like acne and eczema. Research shows a reduction in skin inflammation and infection.
8. Anemia: Prevents iron deficiency anemia due to its iron content. Studies suggest improved hemoglobin levels with regular intake.
9. Anxiety and Stress: Helps prevent anxiety and stress-related disorders. Clinical trials indicate potential benefits in reducing anxiety symptoms.
10. Toxicity: Prevents the accumulation of heavy metals and toxins in the body. Studies confirm its detoxifying effects.

Which foods are rich in it?

Cilantro is commonly used as a herb in various cuisines. Foods rich in cilantro extract include:

1. Fresh Cilantro Leaves
2. Cilantro Pesto
3. Cilantro-Infused Oils
4. Cilantro Salsa
5. Cilantro Chutney
6. Cilantro Soups
7. Cilantro Salad Dressings
8. Cilantro Smoothies
9. Cilantro Marinades
10. Cilantro Sauces

What are possible side effects?

Cilantro extract is generally well-tolerated, but possible side effects include:

• Common (10-30%)
• Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., mild stomach cramps, diarrhea)
• Less Common (1-10%)
• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching)
• Rare (<1%)
• Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight)

What’s the recommended daily dose?

The recommended daily dose of cilantro extract for adults typically ranges from 300 to 600 mg, divided into smaller doses throughout the day.

How many days does it take to work?

Some benefits of cilantro extract, such as improved digestion and reduced inflammation, may be noticeable within a few days to a week. Long-term benefits, like detoxification and improved cardiovascular health, may take several weeks to months to become apparent.

What time of day is best to take it?

Cilantro extract can be taken at any time of day. It is often recommended to split the dosage into two or three smaller doses taken with meals.

Is it best to take it with or without food?

It is best to take cilantro extract with food to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.