Coriander, whose scientific name is Coriandrum sativum, is a micro-vegetable with a pungent, fresh aroma that removes fishiness and grease. It is native to the Mediterranean coast and was introduced to China via the "Silk Road" during the Han Dynasty, with a history of over two thousand years. It is extremely resilient and can be grown throughout China. Although it is not a main dish, it is an indispensable seasoning and spice that people love to eat and use for entertaining guests.
The nutritional value of coriander is quite rich. According to scientific analysis, its carotene content is more than 10 times that of tomatoes, cucumbers, and green beans. Its calcium and iron content are also higher than many other vegetables. The reason it can remove fishiness and grease is that its leaves contain chemical substances such as pinene, linalool, and coriandrol, which are released as soon as it is chopped.
Moreover, coriander also has high medicinal value. It is especially considered a good remedy for certain digestive system diseases. Firstly, the essential oils in coriander can promote saliva secretion, speed up gastrointestinal motility, and increase appetite. Secondly, coriander has the effect of invigorating blood and strengthening the stomach. Folk remedies use coriander porridge to treat indigestion and promote digestion and relieve bloating. Some people also use wine-soaked coriander to treat stomach ailments with good results. The method is: pour wine into a wide-mouthed jar, then add washed coriander in a 1:1 ratio. Seal and soak for a week. Drink a small glass three times a day in the morning, noon, and evening for three months to see results. The effect is better if the soaked coriander is also eaten. It also has a certain therapeutic effect on hemorrhoid bleeding. Folk remedies use coriander stewed with fatty intestines to treat hemorrhoid bleeding; using coriander smoke to fumigate the anus can treat pediatric rectal prolapse. Others use coriander soup to fumigate and wash the anus, then boil coriander powder in vinegar, apply it to the affected area with a cloth while it is still warm, and it will be effective after a week. Folk remedies also use it orally to treat postpartum lactation, urinary retention, toothache, influenza, and more.