Who should not eat coriander?
While a powerful and healthy addition to many dishes, coriander is not for everyone. The herb can have potent effects on the body, which, while beneficial for some, can be detrimental to others. Understanding the specific risks is vital for ensuring your health and safety when incorporating coriander into your diet, especially in medicinal quantities.
Potential allergic reactions
Some people may experience allergic reactions to coriander, with symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Cross-reactivity can occur in individuals allergic to other plants in the same family, such as mugwort, aniseed, and fennel. Symptoms can manifest in various ways after consuming or even coming into contact with the herb.
Common Coriander Allergy Symptoms
- Hives or skin rashes
- Itching or swelling, especially of the lips, tongue, or face
- Gastrointestinal issues like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Respiratory problems such as wheezing, coughing, or asthma
- In rare, severe cases, anaphylaxis
Interference with medications
Coriander can interact with certain medications, amplifying their effects and potentially causing adverse reactions. This is particularly relevant for those taking drugs that regulate blood pressure or blood sugar.
- Diabetes Medications: Coriander has a blood sugar-lowering effect. Combining it with anti-diabetes medications could cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia.
- High Blood Pressure Medications: The herb can also lower blood pressure. Taking it with antihypertensive drugs could cause blood pressure to fall dangerously low.
- Sedative Medications: Large doses of coriander might have a sedative effect. This could increase the risk of sleepiness or slowed breathing when combined with sedative medications like clonazepam or zolpidem.
- Blood-thinners: Large quantities of coriander may slow down blood clotting, which could be risky for individuals on blood-thinning medication.
Risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding
There is insufficient reliable information regarding the safety of consuming large, medicinal amounts of coriander during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is best to err on the side of caution and stick to standard food amounts. Overconsumption is advised against due to potential impacts on reproductive health, as noted in some studies.
For individuals with specific medical conditions
For some people with pre-existing health issues, consuming coriander might be problematic:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): While a mild diuretic and kidney cleanser for healthy individuals, those with CKD should be cautious. High levels of creatinine or potassium can be exacerbated by coriander, and consultation with a doctor is necessary. Small quantities (3-4 leaves after leaching) may be permitted, but excess can add to accumulated toxins.
- Liver Problems: Excessive consumption of coriander, particularly the essential oils, could potentially damage the liver, even though moderate intake is often cited for its benefits.
- Digestive Issues: While known to aid digestion in moderation, overuse can lead to digestive upset, gas, bloating, and diarrhea, particularly in individuals with sensitive stomachs or conditions like IBS.
When preparing for surgery
Due to its potential to lower blood sugar and blood pressure, which can interfere with surgical procedures, it is recommended to stop consuming coriander at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Risk of food contamination
Like many spices, coriander carries a risk of bacterial contamination. The FDA found that a percentage of imported coriander shipments were contaminated with Salmonella. Thoroughly washing fresh leaves and heating dried seeds sufficiently can mitigate this risk.
Coriander vs. Cilantro Flavor Profiles
Confusion between the leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander) is common. Their flavor profiles are distinct, and a genetic variant can affect how cilantro tastes to some people.
| Aspect | Cilantro (Leaves) | Coriander (Seeds) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Bright, citrusy, and fresh. Tastes like soap to some with a specific gene. | Warm, nutty, and slightly spicy with hints of orange. |
| Best Used | Fresh, as a garnish in salsas, curries, and soups. | In spice blends like curry powder, rubs, pickles, and baked goods. |
| Genetic Factor | Presence of the OR6A2 gene can make it taste soapy. | Not affected by the same genetic variant related to soapy taste. |
Conclusion
For most healthy individuals, moderate consumption of coriander is perfectly safe and can offer numerous health benefits. However, it's crucial to be aware of the specific circumstances where it should be avoided. This includes individuals with diagnosed allergies, those on specific medications for blood pressure or diabetes, and during the sensitive periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding where medicinal dosages are not recommended. For those with chronic conditions like kidney or liver disease, consulting a healthcare professional is the safest course of action. Understanding these limitations allows you to use this versatile herb wisely while prioritizing your health.
