Difference Between Fennel & Coriander

Fennel and coriander are the seeds of different plants, although both herbs are utilized for their healing and culinary value. Americans consume thousands of pounds of fennel in processed food such as sausage and baked goods each year. Coriander's historical legacy extends far back in time, as it was found in the Pharaoh Tutankhamen's tomb, according to Paul T. Nicholson, PhD, professor of archeology and author of "Ancient Egyptian Materials and Technology."

Fennel

Fennel is an essential food and spice used in far-flung countries such as France, Morocco, the United States and China. It obtains its strong licorice-like taste from a volatile oil called anethole, according to Bharat Aggarwal, PhD, professor of cancer research at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and author of the book, "Healing Spices." It is not advisable to use fennel medicinally if you are pregnant, as it can bring on uterine contractions.

Coriander

A member of the celery family, the name "coriander" denotes the entire plant, including the seeds, while "cilantro" refers only to the leaves. Coriander's tender leaves are used in Mexican, Thai and East Indian cooking. Ground coriander seeds find their way into an array of foods, and star in the East Indian spice mixture, garam masala. Coriander contains over 25 volatile oils, including linalool and geranyl acetate, which are antioxidants and assist the digestive process, notes Aggarwal. Always seek advice from a professional before using coriander medicinally.

Digestive System

While there is quite a bit of difference between fennel and coriander, both are effective treatments for digestive complaints, including irritable bowel syndrome, according to Aggarwal. According to a 2003 article in ""Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine," scientists conducted a study on fennel's efficacy in treating infantile colic in 125 babies. They concluded that the fennel compound performed better than the placebo in terms of alleviating the intensity of colic. The use of these herbs is not an adequate substitute for advice and treatment from a qualified health-care provider.

Other Health Benefits

Coriander, a traditional remedy for diabetes in India, is a natural antioxidant, according to a 2011 article in the "Indian Journal of Experimental Biology." Scientists studied coriander on laboratory animals, and the results showed that it acts as an antioxidant and antihyperglycemic agent. In the case of fennel, its phytoestrogen compounds have shown promise in alleviating menstrual cramps in clinical studies, according to Aggarwal. Please consult your doctor before using these herbs.