Culantro is an aromatic herb known since the time of the Egyptians, remains of this plant have been found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs. It has been recorded that in ancient Greece, its leaves were used to flavor foods and its oil was used to make perfumes.
Some researchers assert that this plant is over 9,000 years old. The origin of this plant is not precisely known, but it has been located in India and the Far East, later becoming popular in Europe. At the end of the 17th century, the English brought it to North America during colonization, and it then spread across the continent.
Today, this plant is known everywhere. It has abundant serrated leaves on top, and its lower leaves resemble parsley. Its flowers are white, and its pod-like fruits are usually used dried in cooking to season dishes and especially to prepare curry. The essential oil is employed as a flavoring for liqueurs and digestives drinks.
Besides its culinary uses, it is important to remember that culantro helps with digestive problems, thanks to its antispasmodic properties and stimulates appetite. During asthma attacks, the leaves are beaten with honey. Due to their bactericidal properties, culantro leaves are used to combat bad breath. It is also used as an insecticide to protect tomato and papaya crops.
