Coriander
Family Umbelliferae (or Apiaceae)
Coriandrum sativum, coriander (C. sativum 1) , is an annual herb, up to 60 cm tall, with pinnate or bipinnate leaves and white or pink small flowers borne in umbels, the middle ones in each umbel being infertile, the outer ones being larger and fertile. The globular fruits (C. sativum 2) are ribbed and 2-seeded. The name Coriandrum is derived from the Greek word koros, meaning bed bug, because of the unpleasant smell of the fruit when unripe.
Distribution and use
Coriander is a native of the eastern part of the Mediterranean region and is widely spread today. The ancient Egyptians used coriander medicinally to cure intestinal problems. It was also mixed with wine. Today the dried coriander fruits are an important ingredient of curry powder, and are also used as a condiment, in confectionery and for flavouring spirits, e.g. gin. The volatile oil is used as a flavouring for meat-products, cheese, tobacco and perfume.