Cilantro, love or hate?

Did you know cilantro is an amazing heavy-metal binder? It’s been proven to remove an average of 87% lead, 91% mercury, and 74% aluminum from the body!

The consensus is that people either love this nutrient-dense herb or they hate it. It tastes like soap, which is the most common complaint. Did you know there is a genetic snip that causes this polarizing taste phenomenon? If you cannot tolerate the taste, you can find it in supplement form.

Regardless of which end of the spectrum you fall on, there’s no doubt that it is packed with micronutrients, antioxidants, and other medicinal compounds that can have a huge impact on overall health.

Arsenic, cadmium, aluminum, lead, and mercury can become trapped in our tissues. This can lead to many ailments such as heart disease, hormonal imbalances, neurological conditions, infertility, and more. Cilantro, also known scientifically as “Coriandrum sativum,” has been shown to bind toxic metals together, loosening them from tissue and helping them to their eliminated from the body.

When we are counseling our patients in preparation for the safe removal of their amalgam fillings (SMART amalgam removal protocol), which contain mercury, among other heavy metals, we also discuss proper detox protocols. Cilantro is always a top recommended herb.

Did you know that if you have amalgam silver fillings, every time you brush, chew, or drink hot liquids mercury vapors are released into your body? Those vapors pass easily through cell membranes, across the blood-brain barrier, and into the central nervous system. Mercury from amalgam fillings may accumulate in the white and red blood cells. It may reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the red cells and reduce the infection-fighting capacity of the white cells.

In holistic dentistry, a good phrase to remember is, “If its metal, it doesn’t belong in your head.” Having metal in your mouth, and more specifically multiple metals in your mouth, cause galvanism. Which is when multiple metals interact with electrolytes or enzymes present in our saliva and create an electrical charge. This galvanism has many negative effects on the body. The impact may span from recurring headaches to widespread inflammation and cancers. Most people are not aware of these effects of oral galvanism until they develop serious health issues. For example; a dental amalgam filling may interact with the environment of the oral cavity causing erosion and destruction of the gums and bones.

The health of our oral cavity influences the functions of the vital organs in various ways. It can contribute to healthy gut flora and improve digestive functions. It can also support the normal functions of the heart, liver, and kidneys by promoting hormonal balance and immunological functions.

This herb’s strong antioxidant properties, in part due to the flavonoid quercetin, help protect against damage caused by free radicals.

This herb can help calm the nerves and improve sleep quality due to its natural sedative properties.

The leaves and stems of cilantro have been shown to help lower blood sugar levels in animal studies. 

In fact, the results of one animal study indicated that cilantro benefits cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body by lowering them. 

Cilantro’s antibacterial compounds could potentially help keep the urinary tract healthy and free from unhealthy bacteria in a healthy alkaline environment.

Cilantro benefits not only detox the body but also protects it from infection and toxins. Its natural antibacterial properties may help protect against both food and waterborne diseases.

Cilantro benefits come from its rich supply of phytonutrients, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. It also packs a good amount of vitamin K and vitamin A.

Fresh cilantro, for example, tends to work well in soups, salsas, sauces, and chutneys due to its refreshing flavor and citrusy undertones.

Cilantro loses its signature strength and benefits when introduced to heat. It is best to add fresh, chopped cilantro leaves just prior to serving in hot dishes. For raw preparations, such as salsas, guacamole, and smoothies, it can be added at any point.

How can you add more cilantro to your diet?

To your health,

Jennifer Corrigan RDA

Dr. Kayleigh A. Short DMD, formerly of Integrative Dentistry in Seattle, is your top choice for a holistic dentist, and cutting-edge care available to the greater Seattle area, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Monroe, Snohomish, Lake Stevens, Duvall, Whidbey Island, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Everett, and surrounding areas. Washington State, nationwide, and worldwide we are available for telemedicine holistic dentistry consults. For the best care in Seattle for holistic dental and natural holistic facial aesthetic needs. We diagnose complex dental health cases, that other dentists turn away. Contact us today or schedule an appointment to discover how we can help optimize your oral health and support your wellness journey. -Dr. Kayleigh Short and the WDC Team