Introduction
The cinnamon tree grows in various parts of the world. The best variety is found in Sri Lanka. The spice cinnamon comes from the inner bark of a Cinnamon tree known as Cinnamomum. The leaves of the tree are also used as a spice and are known as Tamala Patra or Tejada. It is also called “grass of Kerinci” because it grows back almost immediately after being cut. It has been used as a medicine in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese healing system. The presence of cinnamaldehyde (antifungal and antibacterial) in cinnamon makes it a great addition to any diet.
According to Ayurveda
- In Ayurveda, Cinnamon is known by various names as Twak in Sanskrit, Utkata (sharp aroma), and Daaru Sita (sweet taste of the bark). It is also known ‘dalchini’ in Hindi. According to Ayurveda, the bark of the cinnamon tree has the most healing properties and is easy to digest. It, however, absorbs more water during digestion leading to dryness of body tissues.
- Cinnamon has been used as a home remedy for heartburn, indigestion, and nausea for centuries. Its benefits range from acne treatment to premature ejaculations.
- Cinnamon is commonly used in ayurvedic herbal preparations to enhance the bioavailability of other herbs. Cinnamon is considered hot in potency which means it is a warming spice that contributes to sweet, pungent and bitter tastes. The main benefit of Cinnamon according to Ayurveda is its ability to pacify Kapha and balance the Vata dosh in the body. It may be used in very small quantities to balance Pitta Dosha. Cinnamon can be used on its own for therapeutic value in teas, churnas, tablets or via aromatherapy diffuser.
7 Surprising Ayurvedic Benefits of Cinnamon
Helpful in Stomach Disorders
- Cinnamon is an excellent remedy to pacify stomach disorders like stomach pain or discomforts due to indigestion. Cinnamon helps in balancing the digestion and detox the Gastrointestinal tract. The bark is recommended in indigestion, flatulence, and bloating. Thus, Cinnamon is a great remedy for managing metabolic diseases. It is a diuretic and helps in fighting with urinary retention. It cleanses the urinary bladder.
Helpful in Allergies
- Cinnamon can be combined with warm herbs like ginger and black pepper and boiled and consumed as an herbal tea to get relief from common colds, sore throat, and oral pains. Its warming properties comfort and clear out the airways, helps to clear the mucus and overcome allergies in cold weather. The spice helps in improving voice quality
Helpful in all lung disorder
- It is very helpful in all lung disorders. It is effectively used in a productive cough to relieve chest congestions. Just sipping some cinnamon infused water helps to alleviate congestion. Some honey may be added to it for additional benefits. Cinnamon oil is being used in treating tuberculosis by many Ayurvedic practitioners.
Helpful in Headaches and Joint Pain
- Cinnamon oil is widely used to relieve headaches and joint pains. Accumulation of Ama results in joint pains. This can be averted with regular intake of cinnamon in small quantities. A paste of cinnamon may be applied to the forehead to relieve sinus and headaches
- Cinnamon is very stimulating and helps to promote healthy circulation in the body. When applied on the scalp, it promotes hair growth and strengthens the hair roots. It enhances the blood circulation in scalps too
Helpful in Diabetes & Erectile Dysfunction
- Cinnamon helps in supporting healthy blood sugar levels thus it is very useful in treating diabetes. Consuming 1 gram of cinnamon daily reduces triglycerides and LDL. It raises HDL or good cholesterol. Cinnamon also reduces blood pressure and have a positive effect on blood markers with Type 2 diabetes.
- The spice is known to reduce insulin resistance. Along with controlling diabetes, the spice supports sexual function in males and improves erectile dysfunction. It is one of the best remedies for erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients. The cinnamon oil is diluted with sesame oil and applied over the penis for 10 minutes before the bath to improve blood circulation and for longer erections.
Helpful in Female Reproductive System
- The spice is useful to strengthen the female reproductive system. It regulates the menstrual cycle and strengthens the uterus. Because of its pitta increasing properties, Cinnamon is useful in treating amenorrhea or delayed periods in females
Alzheimer or Parkinson’s Disease
- Cinnamon bark is used in diseases that originates due to vata like paralysis and nerve weakness. Cinnamon helps neurons and improve motor function in those who are suffering from Alzheimer or Parkinson’s disease which are two neurological conditions that were considered almost incurable. Cinnamon thus helps in improving memory.
Helpful in Improving Complexion
- Cinnamon bark is great for improving complexion. The cinnamon powder mixed with rose water may be applied to the skin for 10 minutes. The antimicrobial properties present in it prevents the growth of acne-causing bacteria, giving a healthy-looking skin. It relieves itching.
Helpful in Weighloss
- Cinnamon is known to alleviate Kapha which in turn helps in reducing the body fat or medha dhatu. Thus, cinnamon can be used as a weight loss remedy. It is very useful in relieving bad breath, so cinnamon oil is one of the most common ingredients in all herbal toothpaste and tooth powders. It naturally strengthens the teeth.
Helpful in fight fungal, bacterial, and viral elements
- Cinnamon has been proven to fight fungal, bacterial, and viral elements in foods and helps to keep food fresh longer. Cinnamon extracts are known to slow the growth of cancer cells and induce cancer cell death which makes it an anticarcinogenic spice. It may also be used to fight the HIV virus by preventing the virus from entering cells.
Cinnamon oil
- Cinnamon oil when applied externally at the site of insect bites helps to detoxify the area and relieve stinging pain quickly.
How its Works
- The Cinnamon Sticks are used in both sweet and spicy foods as they enhance the flavor and taste of the food. It could be sauteed in ghee and added to desserts like rice puddings. Its bark and leaf powder may be added to fruit juices in small quantities.
- Cinnamon is a cheap and delicious spice easily available in the supermarket. It is a great appetite suppressant for those with a sugar addiction as it is naturally sweet by taste.
Note
- Cinnamon should not be used for long periods of time and should be used in a low dose during pregnancy. It is not suitable for people with bleeding disorders and with burning sensation and gastritis.
Dr. Vikram Chauhan (MD – Ayurveda) is the CEO and Founder of Planet Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd. He is Author of the Book “Ayurveda – God’s Manual For Healing”. He is an Ayurveda Expert Serving People worldwide through all the Possible Mediums, Operating from Main Branch in Mohali, India. With his Vast Experience in Herbs and their Applied Uses, he is successfully treating Numerous Patients suffering from Various Ailments. He is Serving the Society with Purest Herbal Supplements for One and only Purpose of Making People know and utilize the Wonderful Benefits of the Ayurvedic Diet, Lifestyle, and Natural Herbs. He Formulates Herbal Supplements himself and also Use Classical Ayurvedic Formulations for Helping People Get Rid of All Types of Health Issues, Restore their Health, Uses and Save themselves from the Worst Side-effects of Chemical Based Treatments. For More Details, visit www.PlanetAyurveda.com.
