Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceGeneral health

Cilantro Extract

The staple of heavy-metal detox protocols. The chelation idea comes entirely from mouse and rat experiments; no human trial has shown that cilantro removes heavy metals from people.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Lead in rodents Limited evidence

    Rodent studies report that Coriandrum sativum extract reduced lead deposition in mice and altered tissue lead in lead-poisoned rats. These are animal experiments at high extract doses, and the effect sizes and mechanisms are not consistent between them.

  • No human chelation evidence Limited evidence

    There is no controlled human trial showing that cilantro lowers blood or tissue levels of lead, mercury or any other heavy metal. Detox protocols combining cilantro with chlorella are marketing constructs, not tested interventions.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo human dose has been established. Tincture and extract labels typically suggest 1–2 mL or 300–500 mg once or twice daily, which is convention rather than evidence.
SafetyCilantro as food is safe; concentrated extracts are less well characterised. Allergic reactions and contact dermatitis occur. The real risk here is indirect: genuine heavy-metal poisoning is a medical emergency that requires proper chelation therapy and testing, and substituting a herbal extract can delay treatment. Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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