Herb of the Week:Coriander

Scientific Name: Coriandrum sativum

Also known as: Chinese Parsley, Cilantro (for the leaves), Dhania, Koriander

Coriander is one of humanity’s most ancient herbs, aromatic, flavorful, and steeped in myth. From Mediterranean temples and Ayurvedic kitchens to modern gardens, Coriandrum sativum has been cherished for its culinary versatility, gentle healing properties, and mystical associations. While the leaves are widely known as cilantro, the seeds (simply called coriander) carry their own distinct energetic and medicinal qualities.

This humble plant has traveled through centuries as a symbol of love, passion, protection, and prosperity. Let’s explore its folklore, magick, traditional energetics, and healing gifts.

Folklore & Magic of Coriander

Coriander has been woven into love potions and prosperity blends since ancient times. In old European folklore, the seeds were believed to “stir the heart awake,” inspiring confidence and magnetism. Egyptians buried coriander in tombs for smooth passage into the next world, while Greek lore tied it to Aphrodite, linking it to sensuality and the sweet warmth of attraction.

The seeds were sometimes carried in small pouches to enhance charisma, bring luck, and safeguard the wearer from envy or ill intent. Many cultures burned coriander in incense blends to purify a space and brighten the spiritual atmosphere.

Magickal Uses:

Use coriander seeds or leaves in your practice for:

• Love & Attraction – boost confidence, open the heart, and draw harmonious relationships

• Prosperity – encourage financial flow and opportunities

• Protection – shield from envy, gossip, and negative energy

• Cleansing – purify stagnant energy in rituals or home spaces

• Courage – support bravery and bold decision-making

• Dreamwork – enhance dream clarity and encourage restful sleep when used in sachets or teas

  
  

Symbolism

Coriander symbolically represents:

• Love: Affection, connection, emotional openness, and romantic energy

• Warmth: Comfort, soothing presence, a sense of being nurtured

• Vitality: Life-force energy, renewal, and physical or spiritual rejuvenation

• Opportunity: Movement forward, receiving chances, and aligning with beneficial circumstances

• Clarity: Mental sharpness, clear thinking, and resolving confusion

  
  
  
  

Coriander in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Coriander (xiang cai) is used to disperse stagnation and promote movement within the body. TCM classifies its energetics as:

Energetics:

• Temperature: Warm

• Taste: Pungent, slightly sweet

• Meridians: Lung, Spleen, Stomach

Actions:

• Promotes sweating

• Releases the exterior

• Moves Qi

• Warms the middle burner

• Improves digestion

• Promotes appetite

• Helps expel cold

• Supports detoxification

Medicinal Benefits of Coriander

Coriander seeds and leaves each offer richly supportive benefits:

Coriander Seeds

• May soothe digestive discomfort

• Known for carminative qualities, reducing gas and bloating

• Support balanced blood sugar

• Contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation

• Aid in detoxification and heavy-metal chelation
  

Cilantro Leaves

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K

• Offer antimicrobial and antibacterial support

• May assist in detoxifying the liver

• Support skin health and immune function

• Provide minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium

Lesson: “Let What You Plant Grow”

Coriander teaches the wisdom of gentle persistence. It reminds us that small seeds, literal or metaphorical, can become powerful forces of change with patience, warmth, and care. Whether you’re cultivating your dreams, nurturing relationships, or tending to your own wellbeing, every step matters. Growth doesn’t happen all at once… but it does happen.

Use this herb as a reminder to keep showing up for yourself and the intentions you’ve planted.

From the kitchen to the apothecary to the altar, coriander offers nourishment, clarity, and comfort. May this herb inspire you to embrace new opportunities, connect with your inner warmth, and cultivate love in all its forms.

⚠️ Disclaimer & Safety

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before introducing new herbs into your routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing chronic health conditions.

Potential Allergies or Medical Considerations:

• Individuals allergic to plants in the Apiaceae family (carrot, celery, fennel, parsley) may experience allergic reactions.

• Rarely, coriander may cause skin irritation or sensitivity.

• May interact with medications that affect blood sugar levels.

• Always start with small amounts if you are sensitive to herbs or spices.

✨ Want to dive deeper into the healing power of herbs? Explore more in our Herb of the Week series, featuring wisdom from the Healing Plants Oracle Deck, illustrated by pioneering herbalist Elizabeth Blackwell.