Coriander Oil

oriander seed oil is extracted from the fruit (seed) of coriander (Coriandum sativum L.), which is from the cilantro or Chinese parsley plant family. However, there might be some confusion between coriander and cilantro. Coriander and cilantro are from the same plant, but also have several differences.

The word "coriander" technically describes the whole plant, but depending on geography, coriander and cilantro have different descriptions. In the United Kingdom, the leaves of the plant are called coriander and the seeds are called coriander seeds. In the United States, the leaves are called cilantroand the seeds are called coriander. However, in India, it is called dhania.

Coriander seed is considered one of the earliest uses of spices in the world. It was used for culinary and medical purposes in Babylonian times. It was also mentioned in the Bible, and was found in tombs of pharaohs as a symbol of eternal love.1 Coriander seed oil's color is clear to a pale yellow and has a medium consistency. It emits a pungent yet sweet, woody fragrance.

Uses of Coriander Seed Oil

Since coriander is a known spice, coriander seed oil is used to enhance the flavors of confectionary, seasonings and sodas.2 It's also used as a flavoring agent for tobaccos, and liquors.

Coriander seed oil is also making a name outside the kitchen. A clinical study from Germany's University of Hamburg Medical Center was made and confirmed that an ointment blended with 6 percent coriander seed oil helps treat athlete's foot.3 Because of its strong, sweet aroma and fresh vibe, coriander oil is also a valued ingredient in perfumes and soaps.4

Composition of Coriander Seed Oil

The major component of coriander seed essential oil is linalool, constituting 40 to 87 percent of the oil, depending on which country it comes from. For example, Argentine coriander oil contains 68.9 percent to 87 percent linalool, while oil from Iran may contain anywhere from 40.9 percent to 79.9 percent. The other chemical components of coriander oil are γ-terpinene, neryl acetate, α-pinene, p-cymene, dodecanal and 2E-dodecanal.