Clove is commonly known as cilantro, but is also known as Coriandrum sativum.
Both coriander essential oil and cilantro essential oil are rich in linalool.
Essential oils can be steam distilled from both the seeds and the leaves of the plant. Like the whole herb, the common name for the oil varies depending upon which part of the plant is being used. Coriander seed oil is more common in aromatherapy texts, but clinical research uses both. This popular herb is used in many culinary preparations. Both the seed (coriander) and the flowering tops of the plant (cilantro) are used as flavoring agents and in traditional herbal medicine.
Early research indicates that the aroma of coriander EO helps to reduce anxiety and promote
sleep when anxiety is producing insomnia. These actions are supported by scientific research and a 2016 study on chicks found that the actions of coriander’s linalool were similar to those of Valium (diazepam) (Gaston, et al, 2016). This would be achieved by diffusing the oil in an environmental health effect or direct personal inhalation during times of immediate anxiety.
Coriander oil has been evaluated in rat models of Alzheimer’s Disease for multiple functions that could improve quality of life. In a 2013 study, it was found to boost cognitive function, specifically spatial memory with a reduction in oxidative stress (Cioanca, 2013). Similarly, a
2014 study found that exposure to the oil reduced Alzheimer’s-specific anxiety and depression with an increase in glutathione and a reduction in oxidative stress (Cioanca, et.al., 2014).
Cilantro oil is best utilized for anxiety and Alzheimer’s disease via inhalation. Topical application is unnecessary to achieve its benefits and internal use is not recommended without advanced education in aromatic medicine. For inhalation, dilution is not necessary and a personal inhaler can be used to achieve the desired result. When treating anxiety, it can be combined with bergamot EO for beneficial results.
Coriander EO is dosed through a personal inhaler in 10-15 minute sessions up to 3-4 times per
day for an otherwise healthy adult. In a diffuser, for environmental health benefits, the oil is not subject to duration and age limits which are required for medicinal doses. Diffuser applications can be used for 1-2 hours at a time; after which medicinal doses may be reached and medicinal limitations may apply.
Cioanca, O., Hritcu, L., Mihansan, M., & Hancianu, M. (2013). Cognitive-enhancing and antioxidant activities of inhaled coriander volatile oil in amyloid β(1-42) rat model of Alzheimer's disease. Physiology & Behavior. 120:193-202.
Cioanca, O., Hritcu, L., Mihasan, M., Trifan, A., & Hancianu, M. (2014). Inhalation of coriander volatile oil increased anxiolytic-antidepressant-like behaviors and decreased oxidative status in beta-amyloid (1-42) rat model of Alzheimer's disease. Physiology & Behavior. 131:68-74.
Gaston, MS., Cid, MP., Vazquez, AM., Decarlini, MF., Demmel, GI., Rossi, LI., Aimar, ML., &
Salvatierra, NA. (2016). Sedative effect of central administration of Coriandrum sativum essential oil and its major component linalool in neonatal chicks. Pharmaceutical Biology. 25:1-8.