Consuming plant-based foods of all kinds is associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Some studies suggest that increased consumption of plant foods like cilantro may decrease the risk of obesity, overall mortality, diabetes, and heart disease while promoting healthy skin and hair, increased energy, and overall lower weight.

A compound found in the leaves and seeds of cilantro – dodecanal – has also been found to have an antibacterial effect against Salmonella. In laboratory tests, dodecanal was twice as efficient at killing Salmonella than the commonly used medicinal antibiotic gentamicin.

Due to its high antioxidant content, oil extracted from the leaves of cilantro has been shown to inhibit unwanted oxidation when added to other foods, delaying or preventing spoilage.