If you are a Mexican or Asian cuisine enthusiast you are likely familiar with the crisp refreshing flavor of cilantro (Coriandrum sativum). Also known as coriander or Chinese parsley this incredibly popular herb not only gives these ethnic foods their delicious flare but also possesses an array of cleansing health benefits.

Heavy Metals 

In the past two decades one quality of cilantro that has captured the attention of many is its ability to detoxify heavy metals such as mercury and lead. This discovery was first made public in a study where 400 mg of cilantro was used daily to remove excess mercury that was deposited in various organs after the removal of amalgam dental fillings. In more recent years the use of cilantro has become more widely recognized as an adjunct treatment for detoxifyng heavy metals and some chemicals such as phthalates plasticizers and insecticides. In a recent animal study cilantro was able to significantly decrease lead deposition in bone and kidneys while also reducing lead-induced inhibition of enzyme activity. Such examples show how cilantro has earned its place among natural plant-based chelating agents although more rigorous clinical trials are needed to determine its therapeutic efficacy as a sole heavy metal detoxifier. Nevertheless encouraging certain patients to consume copious amounts of cilantro may be warranted. These individuals would include those who frequently consume seafood that may contain traces of mercury children or adults living in old houses with potential lead dust paint or water pipes and those with dental amalgam fillings. Of course with the increase of environmental pollution it would be advantageous for all to become fond of this unique culinary herb.

Reactive Oxygen Species 

Building upon the aforementioned detoxification abilities of cilantro this herb has been found to be a superior detoxifier of reactive oxygen species owing to the presence of various phenolic compounds. Previous studies have found high phenolic content in the leaf and seed of Coriandrum sativum but more recent studies have found the root to contain equal quantities making this entire herb therapeutic. These compounds were studied for their anti-proliferative effects on cancer cells and found to be highly effective in inducing apoptosis of cancer cells while also arresting the cell cycle. They proved to protect DNA from free radical damage and prevented cell migration. Thus cilantro shows promise as an herb that could aid in protecting against cancer primarily through its capacity to function as a powerful antioxidant. 

Drug-Resistant Pathogens 

It would seem that cilantro's detoxing capability extends beyond heavy metals and free radicals to drug-resistant pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. In the case of the latter the essential oil from the leaves of Coriandrum sativum was discovered to have strong antifungal activity against various species responsible for candidiasis. The volatile compounds found within the leaves of cilantro were able to induce cell death of Candida spp. affect the biofilm structure had anti-adherent and anti-proteolytic activity. In another study fresh cilantro leaves were dried and prepared into fresh juice aqueous and methanol extracts.  These were then assayed in vitro against Staphylococcus aureus Streptococcus pyogenes Escherichia coli Bacilllus subtillis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and found to inhibit growth of all species. The antimicrobial activity of cilantro has been well established making this herb useful for a variety of pathogen-influenced conditions including dysbiosis and irritable bowel syndrome.

The clean refreshing aroma of cilantro is not only appealing to the culinary artist but also proves to be a useful tool to the clinician. Acting analogous to a multi-purpose cleanser this unique herb should be a frequent addition to any healthy lifestyle. Most salads soups or pasta dishes are easily brightened up with the addition of fresh cilantro leaves. Salsa is the most common use for cilantro but other sauces benefit from this herb as well. Smoothie fanatics can easily add it to their concoctions. Regardless of how it is enjoyed cilantro is an adaptable culinary spice that promotes detoxification and health.