Essay On Coriander

Coriandrum sativum (coriander) is an annual herb and belongs to the family Apiaceae (Umbeliferae) and also known as cilantro, chinese parsley, Mexican parsley and dhaniya (Ramadan et al., 2002; Gruenwalded J. 2004). It is originally from Mediterranean region and mainly grown in India, Bangladesh, Russia, central Europe and Morroco (Small, 1997). Coriander is a medicinal plant and cultivated throughout the sub continent for both seeds as well as leaves. In India, coriander growing states are Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of coriander in the global market. India exports about 10-15 % of its total production and remaining consumed domestically.

Leaves are alternate, variable in shape and compound. Inflorescence is a compound umbel comprises 5 smaller umbels. The fruit is globular in shape and about 3-4 mm in diameter, when pressed break into two parts each having one seed. The fruit of the coriander plant contain two seeds. These seeds are used as the dried spice. Matured seeds are yellowish-brown in color with longitudinal ridges. All plant parts are edible while fresh leaves and dried seeds are the most commonly used in culinary dishes. Coriander have fragrant flavor similar to citrus peel and sage. Coriander seed powder is one of the important components of curry powder and also used as main ingredients in food, drugs, cosmetics perfumes and aromatherapy. Coriander also functions as ingredient in flavored pastry, cookies, buns and