Coriander is an annual plant with aromatic white flowers arranged in umbels. The leaves and seeds of the plant are used since time immemorial in Asia and the Middle East. The plant has been transported and acclimated in the Mediterranean where it is used as a culinary plant. It is also cultivated for its essential oil used as an additive in food industry.
In Morocco, the plant is widely cultivated; it is considered a basic spice in the preparation of salads and meats daily. Adding the fresh leaves and finely chopped in salads and sauces.
Cilantro contains several antioxidants compounds: phenolic acids, coumarins, terpenoids and flavoring's. It is also rich in Vitamin K.
The plant has been recognized as a carminative, stomachic, ant febrifuge, bactericidal, analgesic, antirheumatic, digestive tonic, antiseptic, antispasmodic and stimulating. Other more recent research ascribes an effect against diabetes and cholesterol.
In traditional medicine, cilantro is widely used to soothe digestive pain and bloating. It is often considered an aphrodisiac plant
