Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation required
- Turnaround: 3-5 business days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
This test measures IgE antibodies to coriander/cilantro (F317) in your blood. Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant. Cilantro refers to the leaves and stems, while coriander refers to the seeds from the plant's flowers.
The test looks at this single allergen only. It does not measure other foods or allergens. A result shows whether IgE antibodies to coriander/cilantro are present. It is not a diagnosis of food allergy on its own.
Benefits
- Measures IgE antibodies specific to coriander/cilantro
- Uses a simple blood sample
- Requires no special preparation
- Provides results you can share with your healthcare provider
- Delivers results online
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults or children who want to learn more about their immune response to cilantro
- People who have had digestive symptoms, such as stomach cramps or diarrhea, after eating cilantro
- Anyone who has noticed swollen or itchy lips or tongue, or hives, after cilantro
- People who eat Asian or Mexican dishes with cilantro, such as salsa, sauces, or pesto, and have concerns
- Those who want information to discuss with their physician
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What does this test measure, and how is it different from other food allergy tests?
It measures IgE antibodies to coriander/cilantro (F317) in a blood sample. The scope is a single allergen, so it does not cover other foods or broader allergy groups. IgE is one specific type of antibody, and other antibody types are not measured here.
2. Who should consider this test, and when?
Consider it if you have had reactions after eating cilantro, such as stomach cramps, vomiting, hives, or swollen and itchy lips or tongue. It may also be worth discussing if you are unsure whether cilantro is causing symptoms. Because severe reactions can involve facial swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, talk with your physician about any concerning symptoms.
3. Do I need to fast or prepare for this test?
No special preparation is required. You can visit the lab without changing your routine for this test.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Expect results in 3-5 business days. Results may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
5. How should I interpret my results, and what if they are abnormal?
A result shows the level of IgE antibodies to coriander/cilantro in your blood. It does not, on its own, confirm a clinical food allergy or rule one out. Interpretation depends on your symptoms, history, and other information. If your result is positive or unexpected, discuss it with your physician to decide on next steps.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation required.
Cross-Reactivity
Cross-reactivity may occur when the immune system recognizes similar proteins in different foods or pollens. This test measures only IgE antibodies to coriander/cilantro and does not test for any of the items listed below. These examples are not exhaustive. They are possible considerations, not confirmed allergies, and a person with one allergy will not necessarily react to the others. If related reactions are a concern, related allergen testing may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
- Mugwort pollen: Cross-reactivity has been reported between mugwort pollen and cilantro, sometimes described as part of a mugwort-celery-spice pattern.
- Celery: Celery belongs to the same plant family as cilantro, and some people sensitized to one may also react to the other.
- Carrot: Carrot may share allergenic proteins with cilantro, and reactions have been reported in some people with related allergies.
- Other spices from the same plant family (such as fennel, cumin, caraway, and anise): Some people with cilantro allergy may also react to these spices.
