Coriander Essential Oil

Latin Coriandrum sativum – Family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)

Coriander is also referred to as coriander seed, cilantro, oriander, and Chinese parsley. (Side note: Coriander and cilantro are the same plant. In the United States and Mexico, we refer to the leaves of the plant as cilantro and the seeds as coriander, but they are both from the same plant.)

“Coriander seed oil is anti-inflammatory, relieving rheumatism and arthritis; its antibacterial properties are useful against colds and flu. It is an effective stimulant to the nervous system.” –Aromatherapy Workbook by Shirley Price

“The warming and calming fragrance [of coriander essential oil] is also beneficial for people struggling with mental exhaustion, anxiety or sleep deprivation. Try blending in a diffuser with a citrus oil to help soothe nervous tension.” –Robert Tisserand (Tisserand.com)

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Colorless (clear) to pale yellow
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Sweet, warm, spicy, slightly musky
Perfume Aroma – Top / middle note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Herb
Parts Used – Crushed seeds of fruit, leaves
Countries of Origin – India, Egypt, Russia, France, Morocco, Tunisia, Italy, United States, Romania
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

linalol, limonene, gamma terpinene, geraniol, carvone, decylaldehyde, borneol, anethole — (will vary some according to origin)

Applications and Uses

Coriander is used by aromatherapists and can be found in perfumery, soaps, toiletries, and veterinary and pharmaceutical products. Coriander is also used in flavoring liqueurs, meats, tobacco, and chocolate.

Coriander blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

It has been advised by some that coriander oil be used with extreme caution in very small quantities and infrequently, if at all.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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