Essential Oil of the Month: Coriander
Corander (Coriandrum sativum)
“Its enticing aroma and powerful energy, associated with Mars, fuel passionate encounters and deepen emotional connections. In love and lust magic, coriander is an essential ingredient, subtly weaving its magic into the desires and yearnings of the heart.”
- Hadiza KelvinKabir
The captivating aroma of Coriander essential oil blends warmth and intrigue, like the golden glow of a late autumn afternoon. Its scent is sweet and spicy, with a soft nuttiness that wraps you in a comforting embrace. Like sunshine filtering through a grove of orange trees, subtle woody notes gently ground the bouquet, lending a timeless elegance that lingers.
Coriander essential oil is distilled from the seed of the plant. While the leaves of the plant are known as cilantro, they offer entirely different scent, flavor, and culinary profiles. Interestingly, in the UK and some other English-speaking countries, both are referred to as Coriander, however, the leaves are referred to as “fresh coriander.”
If you’re one of those who taste soap when eating cilantro, know that it is due to genetic factors and the presence of aldehyde compounds in the herb which are NOT found in the seed. So, you can safely enjoy Coriander essential oil for its warm, sensual scent without the soapiness.
For millennia Coriander has been a symbol of health and vitality. Records of the use of Coriander date as far back as 5000 BCE. Ancient physicians, including Hippocrates, praised Coriander for its healthful properties. During Tudor times in England, it was offered to guests in weddings and festivities to raise their spirits in a drink known as “Hippocras.”
Found in ancient Egyptian tombs, including the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun (1332–1323 BCE), Coriander was included in burial rituals due to its association with health, vitality, and believed to contain the secret to happiness. This discovery highlights the herb's significant role in the culture, spirituality, and daily life of ancient Egyptians.
In Ancient Rome and Greece, as well as Ancient Egypt, Coriander, along with other spices, was steeped in wine and shared between lovers to stimulate passion and deepen emotional bonds. In the Middle Ages, Coriander was combined with sweeteners like honey to create drinks believed to spark romantic attraction.
Not merely a spice (in dry form) to tantalize the taste buds, Coriander essential oil’s sensual scent is a catalyst that kindles the fires of desire. Throughout history, Coriander has been employed as an aphrodisiac, igniting the flames of lust and love. Its seeds, once used in love potions in China and mentioned in tales like the Arabian Nights, highlight its reputation as an aphrodisiac.
Energetic and Spiritual:
Since it is a ground seed that is in touch with the Earth, it can help reconnect you with Mother Nature. With its deep relationship to the Earth and your inner self, Coriander is a wonderful essential oil to use while doing any esoteric body work, providing a bridge between the physical and spiritual planes. Those who seek to heighten their intuitive abilities and strengthen their third eye awareness often turn to coriander as a source of inspiration and connection.
In some cultures, Coriander represents happiness, peace, and love, and continues to be used in rituals and celebrations today.
Skincare:
Coriander essential oil contains a significant amount of linalool, a compound known for its soothing and calming properties. Linalool may help to reduce the appearance of redness and irritation and can promote a more even and radiant complexion by toning the skin.
To Make an Aromatherapy Massage Love Potion:
Coriander Essential Oil: 1 drop
(for warmth and spice, symbolizing connection)
Rose Maroc Absolute: 2 drops
(for love, romance, and emotional openness)
Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil: 1 drop
(for sensuality and relaxation)
Bergamot Essential Oil: 3 drops
(for uplifting and joyful energy)
Benzoin or Sandalwood Essential Oil: 1 drop
(for sensual sweetness and comfort)
Add to 2 tablespoons of carrier oil like sweet almond or jojoba oil and apply to body or use in massage.
For a Room Spray:
Add the above formula to 1/2 cup distilled water + 1 tablespoon witch hazel (as an emulsifier) and pour into a spray bottle.
For Diffusion:
Add up to 5 drops of the above formula directly to a diffuser filled with water.
PRECAUTIONS: Always dilute coriander essential oil before applying it to the skin. Perform a patch test to check for sensitivity. Avoid direct contact with eyes or mucous membranes. Consult with a healthcare provider if pregnant, nursing, or using with children.
