Essential Oil of Coriander
Coriander Essential Oil
A while back, I wrote a piece about substitutes for Rosewood essential oil and stumbled across the wonders of Coriander oil. I thought that coriander was pretty unassuming, but it actually has an amazing history. Coriander originated in Egypt and the Middle East, and Coriander seed was found in King Tutankhamen’s tomb. It is mentioned in the Old Testament and compared to the manna from heaven (Ex 16:31, Nu 11:7). Coriander is also discussed in ancient Sanskrit manuscripts and evidence suggests its use in China for at least two thousand years. It was used in ancient Rome to flavor wine and was carried back from the Middle East by crusaders. It was used in Medieval Europe to flavor hippocras (sweetened wine steeped with spices) as well has for medicinal purposes. Historically, Coriander was used by the Carmelite nuns in Eau de Melisse des Carmes, or Carmelite Water, as toilet water and a tonic for the body. Coriander oil is still used as a base for perfume, adding a sweet and spicy sharpness to the mix. It mixes well with citrus and other spicy oils like cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg.
Coriander Essential Oil Uses
Coriander essential oil is distilled from the coriander seed. Coriander oil should not be confused with Cilantro oil, which comes from the leaves (not the seeds) of the same plant. Coriander has a myriad of health benefits: it’s anti-fungal and antiseptic; has great pain relieving properties; soothes inflammation, intestinal gas and can be helpful with urinary tract issues. It is also a mild antispasmodic, and thus can be helpful for relieving coughs and easing menstrual cramps. Coriander essential oil has detoxifying properties and studies have shown it to be a lipolytic, meaning it helps break down fats and cholesterol. This wonderful oil is also a stimulant, invigorating the body and mind, helping to fight off feelings of depression. This stimulant effect might also explain coriander’s reputation as an aphrodisiac.
Here is a recipe for an uplifting, soothing massage oil to try:
Mix 2 ounces of our Massage Blend or Grapeseed carrier oil with
15 drops Coriander
12 drops Bergamot
12 drops Ho Wood
10 drops of the citrus oil of your choice
What I found personally interesting and timely (considering my most recent posts about dental care) is that coriander is a great remedy for…. bad breath! Being antibacterial, it inhibits the growth of bacteria that causes bad breath. Mix a few drops of coriander essential oil in some water for a quick, effective mouthwash. I’m also going to try it for my oil pulling experiment! (See the last two blog posts.)
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only, and not intended to treat, prescribe, cure, or diagnose any disease or condition. This information is not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Dreaming Earth Botanicals is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed. All matters pertaining to your physical health should be supervised by a health care professional. Keep all aromatherapy products out of reach of children.