Patna: Coriander leaves, a kitchen staple across India, offer far more than flavour, according to Ayurvedic practitioners in Bihar who say the herb’s medicinal value peaks during the winter months.
Rich in antioxidants and long used in traditional medicine, coriander is believed to help regulate body temperature, support immunity and protect against cold-related illnesses. Doctors say its benefits extend to managing high blood pressure, diabetes, digestive discomfort and even heart health. The herb, widely used in chutneys, salads, lentils, vegetables and soups, contains compounds that strengthen immunity, reduce inflammation and assist in blood sugar regulation. Its high vitamin C content aids iron absorption, supports wound healing and helps relieve skin problems.
Dr Arun Kumar Singh, superintendent of the Government Ayurveda College and Hospital in Patna, said coriander plays a key role in maintaining the body’s heat–cold balance, helping prevent a range of seasonal ailments. “Winter is the most favourable time to harness its medicinal properties,” he said, adding that regular, moderate use supports overall wellbeing.
A natural support for the heart and blood pressure
Dr Amarendra Kumar Singh from the Department of Diseases and Pathology at the same college said coriander acts as a natural diuretic, helping the body flush excess sodium and thereby reducing blood pressure. This, he added, can lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Coriander is also believed to have a cooling effect, which Ayurveda considers beneficial for heart function. Decoctions made from the leaves or seeds may help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, while enzymes triggered by the herb assist in blood sugar control.
Digestive, anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity benefits
Doctors note that coriander offers relief from gas, acidity, constipation and diarrhoea, which are prevalent in winter when fried food consumption rises. Its antioxidants may lower the risk of cancer and heart disease, while its anti-obesity properties could support weight loss and reduce belly fat.
The herb is also said to help patients with arthritis due to its vitamin C content, relieve dizziness when combined with amla, and improve urinary health because of its diuretic action. Decoctions made from its stalks may ease the effects of cold weather, soothe mouth ulcers and freshen breath.
How to include coriander in daily meals
Ayurvedic practitioners recommend several ways to incorporate coriander into a winter diet:
• Add chopped coriander to cooked lentils or vegetables and cover briefly
• Make chutneys using ginger, garlic, chilli, tomato or amla
• Prepare raita with yoghurt and a light tempering
• Grind the leaves and drink them with lukewarm water like tea
• Combine coriander with tamarind, garlic and chilli for a tangy chutney
• Fry rice with coriander, peas, tomatoes, lemon and spices
• Add coriander to wheat, gram flour or sattu to make parathas
• Use coriander preparations to help with kidney stones or period pain
Ayurvedic experts say incorporating these simple methods into everyday meals can help boost immunity, support digestion, and improve overall health throughout the winter season.
