Cilantro

Primary Uses:

1. Culinary Uses:
- Fresh leaves are used in salads, salsas, and guacamole
- Ground seeds are used in spice blends and marinades
- Stems and roots are used in soups and stews

2. Flavoring Uses:
- Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to dishes
- Complements spicy and savory flavors
- Enhances the flavor of meats, fish, and vegetables

3. Aroma Uses:
- Adds a fresh, herbal aroma to dishes
- Can be used in potpourri and aromatherapy
- Used in perfumes and soaps

Sub-List for Culinary Uses:
- Fresh leaves in salads
- Fresh leaves in salsas
- Fresh leaves in guacamole
- Ground seeds in spice blends
- Ground seeds in marinades
- Stems in soups
- Roots in stews

Sub-List for Flavoring Uses:
- Adds citrusy flavor
- Complements spicy and savory flavors
- Enhances flavor of meats
- Enhances flavor of fish
- Enhances flavor of vegetables

Sub-List for Aroma Uses:
- Adds fresh, herbal aroma to dishes
- Used in potpourri
- Used in aromatherapy
- Used in perfumes
- Used in soaps

Other Uses:

1. Culinary garnish - Cilantro is commonly used as a garnish in many dishes, especially in Mexican, Indian, and Thai cuisine. It adds a fresh and citrusy flavor to the dish.

2. Medicinal uses - Cilantro has been used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. It is believed to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and lower cholesterol levels.

3. Religious uses - Cilantro is considered a sacred herb in some cultures and is used in religious ceremonies and rituals.

4. Folklore uses - Cilantro has been used in folklore remedies for various ailments such as headaches, anxiety, and insomnia.

5. Insect repellent - Cilantro contains compounds that repel insects, making it a natural insect repellent.

6. Dyeing agent - Cilantro can be used as a natural dyeing agent for fabrics and textiles.

7. Ornamental uses - Cilantro can be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage and flowers.

Caution:

1. Allergic reactions: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to cilantro, which can cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and difficulty breathing.

2. Contamination: Cilantro has been known to be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning.

3. Taste: Some people find the taste of cilantro to be unpleasant or overpowering, which can make it difficult to incorporate into dishes.

4. Medication interactions: Cilantro may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and can increase the risk of bleeding.

5. Nutrient absorption: Cilantro contains compounds that can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron and calcium, which can lead to deficiencies over time.