Introduction
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Cinnamon (DALCHINI)
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), commonly known as Dalchini, is a widely used spice and medicinal herb in Ayurveda. It is highly valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-regulating properties. Cinnamon is beneficial for diabetes management, heart health, digestion, menstrual pain relief, and skin care.
BOTANICAL CLASSIFICATION
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Family: Lauraceae
Common Names: True Cinnamon, Darusita, Dalchini, Daruchini, Cinnamon bark, Karuvapatta, Ilavarngathely, Guda Twak, Lavangapatta, Dalchini Chekka, Darchini
Benefits of Cinnamon
Supports Diabetes Management
Scientific View:
Cinnamon enhances glucose uptake in the body, improving insulin sensitivity and helping regulate blood sugar levels. The active compound cinnamaldehyde prevents the conversion of glucose to sorbitol, reducing diabetic complications.
Ayurvedic View:
According to Ayurveda, diabetes (Madhumeha) results from aggravated Vata dosha and toxin accumulation in the pancreas. Cinnamon’s Ushna (hot) nature helps digest Ama (toxins), improving insulin function and glucose metabolism.
Usaage Tip: Add 1-2 pinches of Cinnamon powder to tea or warm water and consume daily.
Supports Heart Health & Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Scientific View:
Cinnamon’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help lower high cholesterol and prevent plaque buildup in arteries. It also regulates blood pressure by relaxing narrowed blood vessels, reducing the risk of CAD.
Ayurvedic View:
In Ayurveda, CAD is associated with Sira Dushti (arterial narrowing) due to Kapha imbalance. Cinnamon helps balance Kapha, preventing blood clot formation and reducing arterial blockages.
Usage Tip: Boil 2 inches of Cinnamon sticks in 1.5 cups of water for 5-6 minutes, strain, and add lemon juice. Drink twice daily.
Helps with Allergies
Scientific View:
Cinnamon reduces nasal allergies by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators like cytokines and leukotrienes, which trigger allergic responses.
Ayurvedic View:
Cinnamon helps manage Kapha-related allergies by preventing Ama (toxin) formation and clearing respiratory blockages.
Usage Tip: Mix Cinnamon powder with honey and consume twice daily for allergy relief.
Fights Fungal & Bacterial Infections
Scientific View:
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, which has antimicrobial properties against Candida albicans and other fungi.
Ayurvedic View:
Cinnamon’s Tikshna (sharp) and Ushna (hot) properties make it effective against fungal, bacterial, and yeast infections.
Usage Tip: Cinnamon oil mixed with carrier oil can be applied to fungal infections.
Supports Digestive Health & Relieves IBS
Scientific View:
Cinnamon aids digestion and relieves bloating by promoting healthy gut bacteria. It also soothes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
Ayurvedic View:
Cinnamon helps strengthen Pachak Agni (digestive fire), reducing gas, bloating, and indigestion.
Usage Tip: Boil Cinnamon sticks in water, strain, and drink with lemon juice twice daily.
Reduces Menstrual Pain
Scientific View:
Cinnamon contains eugenol and cinnamaldehyde, which have anti-spasmodic properties that relax uterine muscles, reducing cramps and menstrual pain.
Ayurvedic View:
Painful periods (Kasht-aartava) occur due to Vata imbalance. Cinnamon balances Vata dosha, easing discomfort.
Usage Tip: Drink Cinnamon tea twice daily during menstruation for relief.
Improves Skin & Reduces Acne
Scientific View:
Cinnamon’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help fight acne-causing bacteria and reduce skin redness.
Ayurvedic View:
Cinnamon purifies the blood and balances Kapha to prevent acne and skin infections.
Usage Tip: Mix Cinnamon powder with honey, apply as a face mask for 10 minutes, and rinse.
Oral Health & Fungal Infections (Thrush)
Scientific View:
Cinnamon fights oral infections like thrush by inhibiting Candida albicans growth in the mouth.
Ayurvedic View:
Cinnamon’s Tikshna (sharp) nature helps reduce oral infections and bad breath.
Usage Tip: Add Cinnamon oil to warm water and use it as a mouth rinse.
How to Use Cinnamon?
Cinnamon Powder
- Mix 1-2 pinches with honey and consume twice daily after meals.
Cinnamon Capsules
- Take 1-2 capsules per day with water after meals.
Cinnamon Lemon Water
Mix Cinnamon powder, lemon juice, and honey in warm water and drink daily.
Cinnamon Turmeric Milk
Add Cinnamon powder to warm milk, drink before bedtime.
Cinnamon Tea
Boil Cinnamon sticks in water, strain, add lemon, and drink twice daily.
Cinnamon & Honey Face Pack
Mix Cinnamon powder with honey, apply for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Cinnamon Oil for Joint Pain
Mix Cinnamon oil with sesame oil, apply to joints once daily.
Recommended Dosage of Cinnamon
Cinnamon Powder: 1-2 pinches, twice daily.
Cinnamon Capsules: 1-2 capsules per day.
Cinnamon Oil: 2-3 drops diluted in carrier oil.
Precautions
- Safe for most people in recommended doses.
- Pregnant & lactating women should consult a doctor before use.
- Excess consumption may cause acidity or mouth irritation.
- Avoid in bleeding disorders as Cinnamon may have blood-thinning effects.
FAQs
Can Cinnamon help manage diabetes?
Yes. Cinnamon helps improve insulin sensitivity, regulates blood sugar levels, and enhances glucose metabolism, making it beneficial for diabetes management.
Is Cinnamon good for heart health?
Yes, Cinnamon helps lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and prevent arterial blockages, reducing the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).
How does Cinnamon benefit digestion?
Cinnamon stimulates digestive enzymes, improves gut health, and helps manage conditions like bloating, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Can Cinnamon be used for weight loss?
Yes. Cinnamon boosts metabolism, reduces cravings, and supports fat breakdown, making it helpful for weight management.
Is Cinnamon effective for menstrual cramps?
Yes, Cinnamon has anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relax uterine muscles and relieve menstrual pain.
Can Cinnamon be used for skin care?
Yes. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce acne, blemishes, and skin infections.
How can I consume Cinnamon daily?
You can take it as:
- Cinnamon tea
- Cinnamon powder with honey
- Cinnamon in warm lemon water
- Cinnamon capsules
Are there any side effects of Cinnamon?
In high doses, Cinnamon may cause acidity, mouth irritation, or blood thinning. It should be used in moderation, and people with bleeding disorders or liver issues should consult a doctor before use.
Can pregnant women consume Cinnamon?
Pregnant and lactating women should consult a healthcare professional before using Cinnamon regularly.
What type of Cinnamon is best for health benefits?
Ceylon Cinnamon (True Cinnamon) is the best due to its lower coumarin content, making it safer for long-term use compared to Cassia Cinnamon.
Conclusion
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is a powerful Ayurvedic spice with a wide range of health benefits, including blood sugar regulation, heart health support, digestive aid, menstrual pain relief, and skin care. It is packed with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, making it a versatile and effective natural remedy.
References
- Singh G, et al. (2007). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Cinnamon. Food Chemistry.
- Rao PV, et al. (2011). Cinnamon extract improves insulin sensitivity. Diabetes Care.
- Kwon HK, et al. (2010). Anti-inflammatory effects of Cinnamon. Journal of Medicinal Food.
Reviews By Doctor
Dr. Sapna Kangotra
Dr. Meenu Kaushik
Dr. Megha Rathi
Dr. Nishant Bhardwaj