Cilantro
Cilantro is a leafy herb, which produces seeds and flowers when stressed. The entire plant is edible, along with its roots. Moreover, it is often referred to as coriander, which is the seed, whereas the leaf itself is cilantro.
Hydroponics of Cilantro
Hydroponic System
Appropriate hydroponic systems to grow cilantro are flooding and drainage, or flow and water systems, as well as shallow foundation systems. The latter requires the depth of nutrient solution to be at a minimum of five inches.
Temperature
Cilantro should be grown in at least a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nutrient Solution
The ideal pH range to grow this herb lies between 6.5 and 6.7. Studies have also proved that the seed yield per hectare, strawweight per plan, and seed weight grows better by the application of NPK fertilizer.
Nutritional Profile of Cilantro
The following nutrients are present in one cup of raw cilantro, which weighs around 16 grams.
Fats
The total number of calories and carbs found in the herb are 3.68 and 0.587g, respectively. Meanwhile, the total fat content is 0.083g. (FoodData Central, 2019)
Vitamins
Cilantro contains trace amounts of multiple vitamins, namely A, C, and K. (FoodData Central, 2019)
Other Minerals
The spice also consists of other minerals, such as 67mg of calcium, 1.77 mg of iron, and 26mg of magnesium. (FoodData Central, 2019)
ORAC Value
The ORAC value of cilantro is 5141.
Health Benefits of Cilantro
Various Remedies
Traditionally, coriander is often used as a relief for gastrointestinal maladies. Other uses of the herb include as an antibiotic, an aphrodisiac, and a remedy for a handful of respiratory pain and ailments, as well as treatment for loss of memory and appetite.
Chemistry of Cilantro
The major constitute of cilantro is linalool, but the primary components of the herb are oxidized monoterpenes, along with monoterpene hydrocarbons. (Shyamapada Mandal, 2015)
References
- FoodData Central. (2019, April 1). US Department of Agriculture. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169997/nutrients
- Shyamapada Mandal, M. M. (2015). Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) essential oil: Chemistry and biological activity. ScienceDirect, 421–428.
Frequently asked questions
Which hydroponic system is best for cilantro?
Flooding and drainage, flow and water systems, and shallow foundation systems all work. A shallow foundation system needs the nutrient solution at a minimum depth of five inches.
What temperature does cilantro need?
Cilantro should be grown at a temperature of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
What pH range is ideal for growing cilantro?
The ideal pH range to grow cilantro lies between 6.5 and 6.7.
