Coriander has long been part of culinary delights from not only India, but also from America and Mediterranean countries.
In Kerala, it is known by the names malli, kottamalli, etc. In other parts of India, it is known by the names dhana, dhanyaka, kustumbari, etc.
Its dried fruits/seeds and leaves are used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Coriander seeds have anti-bacterial properties and are used to treat certain skin diseases and digestive disorders. It is a good medicine for lack of appetite and indigestion problems. Coughs, rash, fever, dysentery, headaches, etc are other diseases treated with coriander.
Coriandum sativum is in the plant family Umbelliferae.