Since ancient times, various medicinal plants have been used in India and most of the world to treat diseases. These herbs and plants, as well as various medicinal spices, and spice plants, have been traditionally used in the treatment of diseases since ancient times. (1) One such spice with excellent medicinal properties is cinnamon. This article describes a comprehensive overview of the health benefits of cinnamon.
What is Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is one of the spices used in the kitchen. Cinnamon is a shrubby evergreen tree in the Lauraceae family and cinnamon spice is derived from cinnamon bark. The condiment consisting of bark is brown in color and has a subtle aroma and hot sweet taste. Its scientific name is Cinnamomum verum. Cinnamon is native to India’s neighboring Malabar coast, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, and is also cultivated in South America and the Net Indies. Cinnamon is used to flavor a variety of foods, from desserts to curries to drinks, and is popular in bakery products in many places.
Plant description
Cinnamon grows in moist well-drained soil and reaches a height of more than 15 meters (49 feet). (1) The thick simple leaves have smooth margins and are usually ovulating. The dry leaves are red and mature to deep green. The flowers arranged in panicles are green in color and have a distinctive scent. The fruit is a thick drupe.
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Nutritional Value per 100g of Cinnamon
| Energy | 1,035KJ (247 Kcal) |
| Carbohydrate | 80.6g |
| Sugar | 2.2g |
| Dietary fiber | 53.1g |
| Fat | 1.2g |
| Protein | 4g |
Nutritional Value of Vitamins per 100g of Cinnamon
| Vitamin A equive | 15mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.02mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.04mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.33mg |
| Vitamin (B6) | 0.16mg |
| Folate (B9) | 6mcg |
| Vitamin C | 3.8mg |
| Vitamin K | 31.2mg |
Nutritional Value of Minerals per 100g of Cinnamon
| Calcium | 100.2mg |
| Iron | 8.3mg |
| Magnesium | 60mg |
| Phosphorus | 64mg |
| Potassium | 431mg |
| Sodium | 1.8mg |
| Zinc | 0.14mg |
Nutritional Value of Other constituents per 100g of Cinnamon
| Water | 10.6g |
Scientific classification of Cinnamon / Cinnamomum verum
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Magnoliids
- Order: Laurales
- Family: Lauraceae
- Genus: Cinnamomum
- Species: C. Verum
- Scientific name: Cinnamomum verum
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Benefits of Cinnamon
1. Anti-viral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties
Cinnamon is believed to have many medicinal and comforting properties, and is frequently used in Chinese herbal medicine. Cinnamon’s special scent and flavor comes from the essential oil in the bark called Cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde exhibits antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
2. Contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory effect
Cinnamon is rich in polyphenol antioxidants. Antioxidants can help protect the body from disease and are found in fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. The antioxidants in cinnamon have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
3. May improve gut health
Some spices, including cinnamon, have pre-biological properties that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and help suppress the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, incorporating condiments into your diet on a regular basis can help improve intestinal health. Cinnamon is a useful source of manganese and contains small amounts of calcium and fiber.
4. Reduces blood pressure
There is some evidence that cinnamon consumption is associated with lower blood pressure. Although the evidence is promising, it would be premature to recommend cinnamon for blood pressure control until a comprehensive randomized controlled trial (RCT) has been performed including a larger number of patients. More recent studies have shown less promising results.
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5. Lowers blood sugar and risk of type 2 diabetes
It has been suggested that cinnamon may have a moderate effect in improving glycemic control and aiding in the management of type 2 diabetes. However, conclusions are mixed and large randomized controlled trials in well-defined population groups using standardized interventions are needed to definitively determine the efficacy of using cinnamon in patients with diabetes. However, small amounts used in breakfast or baking are harmless and can be eaten as part of a balanced diet.
6. Relieves digestive discomfort
Cinnamon extract has been used in medicine for years to relieve gastrointestinal problems. It is described as a carminative which is famous for its digestive, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine uses cinnamon bark oil to treat bloating and digestive imbalances. It is believed that the warmth of cinnamon increases blood flow and improves blood oxygen levels to help fight disease. To reduce digestive symptoms, cinnamon is taken as part of a hot drink (like tea).
7. Reduce arthritis pain
Another very good and effective benefit of cinnamon comes in the form of pain reduction in the case of joint inflammation also known as arthritis. The anti-inflammatory agents of cinnamon powder can treat painful conditions such as gut and other cellular disorders. It contains some antioxidants such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid that can reduce cell damage.
8. Reduce PMS problem
Have you ever tried a cup of fresh cinnamon powder during your period? If not, try it this time and see how well it helps you treat cramps and abdominal pain. Cinnamon powder can regulate your menstruation as well as profuse bleeding disorders. This is one of the major cinnamon powder health benefits.
9. Remove bad odor
It is useful for removing bad breath. It helps you get rid of bad breath. Mix a little cinnamon oil or cinnamon powder in water and use it in a diffuser to remove unpleasant smells.
10. For weight loss
The benefits of cinnamon powder for weight loss are significant. The high levels of antioxidants in cinnamon powder make it a completely natural product for weight loss. It not only helps in flushing out the toxins but helps in clearing the accumulated cellulite and fat. It controls the entire system and helps you lose weight. Just 1 cup of cinnamon tea made from the powder helps to lose those extra pounds by improving metabolism.
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11. Improving blood circulation
Among the many cinnamon oil uses, its role in promoting good circulation is noteworthy. The spice has a unique blood-thinning compound that helps in the unlimited flow of pure blood throughout the body. Any pain caused by irregular blood flow will be reduced. Along with good blood circulation, a continuous flow of oxygen will start, ensuring your heart and longevity.
12. For skin health
Organic cinnamon powder benefits your skin in a variety of ways. It has antibacterial properties to reduce skin infections like acne, eczema and pimples. With a slightly thicker structure, cinnamon can use a simple cinnamon mask by mixing the powder with some rose water and honey and applying it evenly on your face. This is also an instant brightening, skin whitening mask to try before heading out to a party.
13. For hair growth
Studies have shown that cinnamon can create hair development by improving blood circulation. (1) It is rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can reduce scalp problems like dry scalp flakes, dandruff and itching. You can use this powder by mixing it with coconut oil and massaging it into your scalp.
Uses of Cinnamon / Cinnamomum Verum
As an excellent spice, cinnamon is used in the kitchen to prepare a variety of dishes. Cinnamon is especially used in meat dishes. A different type of baked food item is used. Cinnamon powders, pastes etc are used to cure various diseases and skin problems. Cinnamon tea and oil made from cinnamon are also used in a variety of healing applications.
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Side effects of Cinnamon
- Cassia cinnamon, commonly found in grocery stores, contains high concentrations of a compound called coumarin. If consumed in high doses, cinnamon can cause heartburn, indigestion and mild sweating. Over time, the accumulation of coumarin in the body can prevent blood clotting and cause liver damage.
- Cinnamon is too potent and can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness when taken internally.
- If used topically, cinnamon essential oil should be diluted in a carrier oil such as peanut oil or jojoba oil. If left undiluted, cinnamon oil can cause burning, redness, chafing and burning sensations in the skin. Never apply cinnamon vaginally to treat yeast infections.
- Cinnamon can cause allergies in some people, usually mild to moderate in severity. Symptoms may include runny nose, nasal congestion, dizziness or nausea.
Precaution and warning
Pregnancy: Cinnamon is safe to consume during pregnancy. Cinnamon is likely to be unsafe when consumed during pregnancy in amounts greater than what is found in the diet. Stay on the safe side and avoid overuse.
Breastfeeding: Cinnamon is likely to be safe when ingested during lactation. The safety of overdose is not well known. Stay on the safe side and avoid excessive use in the amount of food that should be used.
Surgery: Cinnamon can affect blood pressure and blood sugar levels and interfere with blood pressure and blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking cinnamon at least 2 weeks before your scheduled surgery.
Therefore, cinnamon should be used regularly in the right amount considering its benefits and harms as excessive use of any product can harm our health and should be avoided in some cases considering its harms. Cinnamon should be used in the treatment of diseases and should be consulted by a doctor.
Conclusion
This article must have given you a general introduction to the benefits of cinnamon. Learned about the benefits, uses, ingredients, harms, and other properties of cinnamon. I hope the information mentioned in this article will help you in different ways with different problems. Thank you!
FAQ
1. What is the scientific name of cinnamon?
Ans: The scientific name of cinnamon is Cinnamomum verum.
2. Where is cinnamon obtained?
Ans: Cinnamon is extracted from the bark of shrubby evergreen trees.
3. Cinnamon is a plant belonging to which family?
Ans: Sugarcane is a plant in the Lauraceae family.
4. What is the common name of cinnamon?
Ans: Cinnamon is commonly known as dalchini.
5. Cinnamon is cultivated in which countries in particular?
Ans: Cinnamon has grown mainly on the Malabar coast neighboring India, native to Sri Lanka and Myanmar, and in South America and the West indies.