More herbs and spices - Cilantro

I just wrote a novella extolling the virtues of rosemary. It is, as I mentioned, one of the herbs that I am growing outside my apartment. I am also growing cinnamon basil, chives, catnip, oregano, thyme, parsley, and cilantro.

Cilantro, if you remember from my last entry, is considered an herb and a spice. The leaves and stems are commonly known as cilantro, while the fruits (commonly known as seeds), which are usually toasted and ground before added to food, are known as coriander. In the UK, coriander is the all-purpose name used for both the leaves and stems of the plant, as well as the fruits.

Coriander/Cilantro, also known as Chinese parsley, is from Asia and Africa. Like rosemary, its element is fire and its energy is masculine. The ruling planet is Mars. Its powers include love, health and healing. Powdered coriander is added to wine to increase lust.

In Iran it is used in folk medicine as a way of reducing anxiety. In India, coriander and cumin seeds are steeped together in a tea, which is then drunk as a digestive aid. It reduces cramps and flatulence, and if you've ever had Indian food, you know that the resulting flatulence can be pretty spectacular! (This information comes from the TMI files.)

And now, to stir up some love and lust in the kitchen:


Guacamole (this recipe is perfect for Beltane and Midsummer)

2 avocados, scooped out of their rind (love)

2 cloves garlic, minced (courage; protection; sex; health)

1/2 jalapeño pepper, minced (remove the seeds and membranes if you want the flavor without the heat) ( same properties as garlic)

2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro (don't tell me you've already forgotten the properties!)

1/3 cup minced red onion (protection; healing; lust)

juice of 1/2 lime (same properties as garlic and jalapeño)

salt to taste (cleansing; protection)

In a medium mixing bowl, scoop out the avocados and mash them with a fork. I usually leave mine slightly chunky, but you could use a food processor if you want yours to be totally smooth. Add the lime juice to keep the avocados from browning too quickly.

Combine the rest of the ingredients. Check for seasoning, Add the juice from the other half of the lime if desired. Chill lightly before serving.