When I think of cilantro I immediately envision Mexican food which, unfortunately has not been recently linked to good health. But, cilantro surprising, minus the carbohydrate loaded, smothered cheese accoutrements, is an excellent source of nutrients which can be easily added to your diet.

Considered one of the world's oldest spices, coriander dates back to 5000 B.C. Native to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, it was wisely used throughout Asian cooking. In early times, the Romans used cilantro to preserve meats and flavor breads. Physicians, including Hippocrates, used coriander for its medicinal properties. Countries like India, Morocco and Holland are the largest commercial producers of coriander seeds. You can find cilantro in many traditional foods from Indian, Chinese and Latin America.

The health benefits associated with cilantro are extensive but it gets major recognition for diabetic support. In fact, cilantro is known in some parts of Europe as the "anti-diabetic plant." In parts of India it is renowned for its anti-inflammatory benefits and in the United States used for fighting cholesterol.

• Salmonella--research shows cilantro (compound present within) is twice as effective as the commonly used antibiotic drug gentamicin at killing Salmonella.
• Helps digestion and intestinal discomfort settle the stomach (relieves intestinal gas)
• Help treat symptoms of arthritis
• Protection against urinary tract infections
• Helps prevent and treat nausea
• Helps in Lowering blood sugar
• Helps lowers bad cholesterol while raising good cholesterol
• A good source of dietary fiber
• A good source of magnesium, and iron
• Rich in phytonutrients and flavonoids
• Dental support---and also an effective for chellation therapy (fight against excess mercury in out systems)

Fresh leaves

Look for vibrant green leaves free from yellowish and brown discoloration. Store in refrigerator as coriander is highly perishable. Store with its roots attached by placing the roots in a glass of water and covering leaves with plastic loosely. If roots have been removed, store coriander leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag.

Seeds over powder

Seeds stay fresher much longer and can be grounded into powder easily.

Ethnic markets

Although your local grocer has cilantro readily available, try ethnic markets. Their quality and freshness may be superior to Wal-Mart's.

How to add to your diet

Herbs are an easy way to boost the nutrients in your everyday meals. Whether preparing soups or salad or just sprinkling them over prepared foods, cilantro has great health benefits which we all can use in the vitamin deficient food we eat daily.