
     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 there 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 know 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 flavorand 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  indicate,
     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.
