
                                     CORIANDER
                                     =========


                                    CULTIVATION:
     Coriander is a small hardy annual. Grows to about 3 feet in height. It has
     thin, pointed roots, and white and reddish flowers.

     Coriander  needs  full sun, rich, and light  soil.  Sow seeds in autumn to
     overwinter  in  mild climates, or sow  in  early spring in final position.
     Germination  time  is about 14 days, and  plant  matures in about 90 days.
     Grows  in  zone 3-10. Grow away from  fennel, which seems to suffer in its
     present.  Thin to 8 inches apart. Coriander can be grown indoors, but many
     people find the scent unpleasant in their home.

     Pick  young  leaves anytime, and collect  seeds when brown but before they
     drop. Dig up roots in autumn. Dry seeds, or store whole. Freeze leaves, or
     place  the  stems  in  water and cover  with  plastic  bag to retain their
     freshness.  The  leaves are known in their  own right as Cilantro, a tasty
     seasoning herb. To harvest Cilantro, cut the small immature leaves for the
     best flavor.


                                  CULINARY  USES:
     The  leaves and ripe seeds have two distinct flavors. The seeds are warmly
     aromatic  and indispensable in tomato chutney and curries. They provide an
     excellent  flavoring  for vegetables and  soups,  sauces and biscuits. The
     leaves  have  an  earthy  pungency  flavor and  are  delicious  in  salads,
     vegetable and poultry dishes.

     Cook  the stem with beans and soups.  Cook fresh roots as a vegetable. The
     stem can also be added to curries or stews.


                                   MEDICAL  USES:
     Chew  or  infuse seeds as a tea,  this  may help digestive problems and is
     also a sedative. Some studies show, coriander helps settle the stomach
     but  its  not as soothing as other  herbs. Coriander might not be the most
     potent digestive aid, but its taste is better.

     For  an  infusion,  use 1 teaspoon of  bruised  seeds,  or 1/2 teaspoon of
     powder  per  cup of boiling water. Steep for  5  minutes and drink up to 3
     cups a day before or after a meal.

     It  might  also  be  helpful  in  relieving  arthritis  pain.  If you have
     arthritis,  try it and see if it  helps. One animal study showed coriander
     can reduce blood sugar levels, hinting at possible value in the management
     of diabetes.

     The  herb also contains substances that  kill certain bacteria, fungi, and
     insect  larvae, which attack meat. The same microorganisms can cause human
     wound  infection. Sprinkle some coriander on  minor cuts and scrapes after
     they have been thoroughly washed with soap and water.


                                      WARNING:
     Generally regarded as safe, for healthy nonpregnant, nonnursing adults.


                                  COSMETIC  USES:
     The sweet scent of coriander makes a light lotion with a pleasing perfume.
     
