Coriander - a herb from the Umbelliferae family, is also
known as cilantro. Cilantro leaves are used in Vietnamese, Thai, Mexican
and Indian cuisine. The small round fruits produced by the flowerheads
are used as a spine in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking. In traditional
Indian medicine Coriander fruits are used to reduce excess heat in the
body.
The essential oil is extracted from powdered dried fruits
that have developed the desired aroma. (Fresher fruits results in an
unpleasant scent for aromatherapy purposes). Coriander is considered
an aid to digestion, as are Aniseed and Fennel, other seed oils from
the Umbelliferae family.
Rheumatic pain - add 5 drops of Coriander oil to 1 tablespoon
of vegetble oil and massage gently into the affected area. Repeat as
often as necessary.
Indegestion and colic - add 3 drops of Coriander oil
to 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (olive). Starting at the person's lower
right side, gently massage the abdomen in gentle clockwoise circles
using this oil blend.