Experts Cite Cilantro as Potential Blood Sugar Tool; Research Ongoing
By cocosomers // 2026-11-03
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Cilantro, the leafy herb common in salsa and tacos, may help lower blood sugar, according to nutrition experts cited in a Daily Mail report. The report does not provide additional study details, such as sample sizes or whether the research involved human participants. Experts interviewed for the article said the findings are early-stage and should not be interpreted as proof that cilantro treats or prevents diabetes. The report frames the discussion around social media claims that cilantro is a natural treatment for Type 2 diabetes, a heavy-hitting detox and an infection-fighting superfood, and asks two nutrition experts to separate the hype from the science [1].

Background on Cilantro and Blood Sugar Research

Cilantro, also known as coriander leaf, has been used in traditional medicine in various cultures, according to the Daily Mail report [1]. The herb is the fresh leaf of the coriander plant, while coriander seeds are the dried berries of the same plant and have a different flavor profile [2]. Some laboratory and animal studies have suggested that compounds in cilantro may influence blood sugar metabolism. The Daily Mail report cites a study in Phytotherapy Research in which cilantro extracts increased insulin release and lowered blood sugar [1]. A separate report on coriander seeds states that the seeds contain heart-healthy unsaturated fats, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium and antioxidants such as vitamin C, and that they help regulate blood sugar [3]. Human clinical trials on cilantro and blood sugar are limited, and experts said the evidence is not yet sufficient to draw firm conclusions. The Daily Mail article describes the research as preliminary and calls for more investigation before cilantro can be recommended as a blood sugar treatment [1]. The Cleveland Clinic, in a separate page on cilantro, states that the herb may help regulate blood sugar, but its guidance does not present the herb as a substitute for medical care [4].

Expert Perspectives on Cilantro's Effects

One expert told the Daily Mail that cilantro contains antioxidants that may help improve insulin sensitivity [1]. The report quotes the expert as saying the herb's plant compounds may influence the way the body processes glucose, though the mechanisms are not fully established. Another expert said that while the herb shows promise, it should not be viewed as a replacement for established diabetes treatments [1]. The Daily Mail report presents this caution alongside the more optimistic claims circulating on social media. The report also quoted a nutritionist who noted that adding cilantro to meals is a low-risk dietary change that could complement other healthy habits [1]. The Cleveland Clinic similarly describes cilantro as a fragrant herb that may help regulate blood sugar, ease pain and inflammation, prevent foodborne illnesses and support brain health [4].

Limitations of Current Evidence

The studies cited in the report are small and vary in design, according to officials. The Daily Mail article does not detail the size or methodology of the Phytotherapy Research study, and it describes the overall evidence base as preliminary [1]. Experts said that larger, controlled human trials are needed to confirm any blood sugar-lowering effect [1]. Until such trials are completed, the report states that claims that cilantro can manage or treat diabetes remain unproven.

Summary and Next Steps

The report stops short of recommending cilantro as a treatment and instead describes it as a possible dietary aid. It also  notes that cilantro is widely available and easy to add to meals, which may make it an attractive option for people seeking dietary changes.

References

  1. It's not just for salsa and tacos... experts reveal how cilantro could be the key to slashing your blood sugar. https://www.dailymail.com/health/article-16250341/cilantro-blood-sugar-diabetes-benefits.html
  2. 6 Health benefits of coriander seeds a superfood full of antioxidants recipes included - NaturalNews.com, September 14, 2021.
  3. Coriander seeds A spice with ancient roots and modern benefits - NaturalNews.com, April 06, 2026.
  4. Cilantro: Nutrition and 4 Health Benefits. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cilantro-benefits

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