What's the name of cilantro?
When shopping for spices at the vegetable market, have you ever been confused by the name "coriander"? The differences in the scientific name and regional name of this common vegetable reflect more than 2,000 years of cultural integration. 1. Botanical traceability of coriander 1.1 Scientific name and historical origin The scientific name Coriandrum sativum officially recorded in the botanical literature is derived from the Greek words "koris"(bedbug) and "annon"(fennel). There are records of cultivation of papyrus in ancient Egypt in 1500 BC. Zhang Qian introduced it to the Central Plains when he was sent to the Western Regions. It was originally recorded as "coriander" in "Qi Min Yao Shu". 1.2 Differences in regional names. Most northern dialects retain the ancient name "yuán sui". The Compendium of Materia Medica explains that "yuán" refers to the thin and weak state of its seedlings. It is called "Yanxi" in southern Fujian, and "Yanxi" in Cantonese. The southwest region is given the poetic nickname "Star in the Sky" due to its umbrella-shaped inflorescence characteristics. 2. Analysis of the biological characteristics of coriander 2.1 Typical morphological and structural characteristics of umbellifera plants, 20-100cm upright stems are distributed with pinnately compound leaves, and 1-2 cycles of fully divided leaves have serrated edges, which can effectively prevent pests. The white corymb inflorescence contains 5-10 small flowers, and the double hanging fruit bulbous structure contains two seeds. 2.2 Odor formation mechanism The unique odor originates from dodecenal and decanal compounds in leaves, which increase in concentration when plants are mechanically damaged. Interestingly, about 4-14% of the population will perceive a "soap smell" due to the OR6A2 gene mutation. 3. Cultural Application Map of Coriander 3.1 Cooking Application Scenarios A must-have seasoning in Southeast Asian cuisine. Vietnam pho requires 15g of fresh leaves to enhance the flavor. In the Middle East, dried seeds are ground into powder to make up 30% of curry powder. Modern molecular gastronomy has found that its aldehydes have a flavor synergistic effect with citrus ingredients. 3.2 The medicinal value verification "Diet Therapy Materia Medica" records its effect in relieving the surface and penetrating the rash. Modern research has confirmed that seed essential oil contains linalool, which has an inhibition rate of 68% on Staphylococcus aureus. Each 100g of fresh leaves contains 120mg of vitamin C, which is twice that of lemon.
From plant classification to food culture, the multiple identities of coriander reflect the deep interaction between humans and plants. This spice plant, which carries the memory of the Silk Road, is still creating new taste legends.