admin Dalchini (Cinnamon) has a special place in the Indian spice box. Apart from being an aromatic spice, Dalchini has long been used as a traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda. In recent years, modern science has found evidence of its potential health benefits.
Cinnamon is basically a thin layer of bark of some evergreen trees from the Cinnamomum genus. It was once so precious that it was worth more than gold. It has a sweet and warm aroma and taste that makes it a popular ingredient in baking and curry dishes. It is also one of the oldest medicinal spices known to humans.
Think of its health benefits by the fact that only a tablespoon of ground cinnamon (Dalchini) has approximately 1.4 grams of fiber and calcium. It also has some vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin K, and some antioxidants.
That’s not all! Let’s find out the top 20 health benefits of Cinnamon (Dalchini).
Top 20 Benefits of Dalchini (Cinnamon)
Cinnamon is a powerful spice that can fight against various health problems with its antimicrobial properties. You can improve your health by adding this spice to your daily diet and beauty routine. Here are some of the amazing benefits of Dalchini, or cinnamon that you should know.
#1 Lowers Cholesterol
Studies have shown that consuming 120 milligrams to 6 grams of cinnamon every day can help lower the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, which are harmful to your health while increasing the levels of HDL or good cholesterol, which are beneficial for your health.
By maintaining a healthy balance of cholesterol in your body, you can also protect your heart from various diseases. A simple way to enjoy this benefit is to drink cinnamon tea every day. Just one teaspoon of cinnamon a day can make a big difference in your health.
#2 Relieves Pain
Cinnamon can act as a natural painkiller by interacting with prostaglandin, a substance that regulates the contraction and relaxation of muscles. Cinnamon can help reduce muscle spasms, cramps, and stiffness. You can apply cinnamon oil topically to the affected areas or consume it orally to get relief from pain.
#3 Relief in Cough and Cold
Cinnamon is a warming spice that can help you combat cold and flu. Dalchini can boost your immune system, clear your nasal passages, and soothe your throat. You can add cinnamon to ginger tea for a potent cold remedy. Another option is to mix a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon powder with a tablespoon of honey and take it twice a day for three days for the best results.
#4 Prevents Arthritis
Cinnamon can help prevent and treat arthritis, a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. This natural spice has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can reduce swelling and damage in the joints. You can drink a cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon powder twice a day to ease arthritic pain.
#5 Helps in Digestion
Cinnamon can help you digest your food better by breaking down fats and improving your metabolism. Dalchini can also help you cure stomach ulcers and relieve gas and bloating. You can sprinkle some cinnamon powder on your food or drink cinnamon tea after your meals to aid digestion.
#6 Protects Your Heart
Prepare a paste of honey and cinnamon powder and use it as a substitute for your usual jam. Eat it every day, and you will lower the chance of having a heart attack.
#7 Helps You Lose Weight
Cinnamon helps you control your blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance and increasing insulin’s ability to process glucose. This spice also helps you feel less hungry and crave less sweets, which leads to weight loss.
#8 Fights Cancer
Cinnamon has anti-cancer properties. Make a drink of water, honey, and cinnamon powder and drink it twice a day for three months to treat bone and stomach cancers.
#9 Improves Longevity
Cinnamon can make you live longer. Boil four teaspoons of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of water, and drink it three to four times a day to increase your longevity.
#10 Treats Diabetes
A quarter teaspoon of cinnamon, when taken for two months, will help lower your blood sugar levels by 30 percent.
#11 Improves Fertility
Cinnamon has a nutrient called cinnamaldehyde, which helps balance the hormones in women. It increases the level of progesterone and decreases the level of testosterone. This improves the chances of conceiving for women who have fertility issues.
#12 Protects Against Brain Disorders
Cinnamon helps lower chronic inflammation that can lead to brain disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. These are diseases that affect the nerve cells and cause problems with memory, movement, and coordination.
#13 Freshens Breath
Cinnamon helps fight bad breath. You can chew on some cinnamon sticks or rinse your mouth with warm cinnamon water to get rid of the unpleasant odor. Cinnamon has a strong and pleasant aroma that can mask the bad smell.
#14 Fights Infections
Cinnamon can ward off viruses that cause flu and colds. It also stops bacterial growth, which can cause urinary tract infections and E. coli. It is well-known as a remedy for infections such as Candida yeast infection. Drinking cinnamon tea regularly can also prevent stomach flu and some infections that you can get from hospitals.
#15 Prevents Digestive Problems
Cinnamon is rich in an antioxidant called catechins. This is a great help for digestion and prevents digestive problems like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), bloating, constipation, gas, etc. A cup of cinnamon tea can soothe your stomach, especially if you eat rich foods.
#16 Enhances the Colon’s Functioning
Cinnamon has a beneficial effect on the colon’s health, according to research. It can help prevent colon cancer, which is a very serious disease. Dalchini is also rich in antioxidants, which can protect the body from various types of cancer and other diseases. Drinking cinnamon tea is a tasty way to improve your colon’s functioning and reduce the risk of cancer.
#17 Fights Against Chronic Inflammation
As said, Dalchini’s anti-inflammatory properties can help the body fight against chronic inflammation. This condition can lead to many dangerous diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis, obesity, infertility, and more. Cinnamon tea can reduce inflammation and prevent its harmful effects on the body. It is a delicious and healthy drink that can help you avoid these serious health problems.
#18 Regulates Blood-Sugar Levels
Cinnamon can help people with diabetes control their blood sugar levels, as studies have shown. Diabetics who took up to 6 grams of cinnamon daily had their blood sugar levels reduced by 18 to 29%. Cinnamon tea can help lower the sugar spikes and maintain a stable blood sugar level. It is a natural and effective way to manage diabetes and improve your health.
#19 Improves Blood Flow
Poor blood circulation can cause many problems in the body, such as varicose veins, joint pain, constipation, and more. Cinnamon tea can warm up the body and increase the blood flow throughout the body. This can improve blood circulation and prevent many health issues.
Cinnamon is also a natural blood thinner, which can help prevent blood clots and strokes. Drinking cinnamon tea regularly can benefit your cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
#20 Boosts Memory And Alertness
Cinnamon may have a positive impact on your cognitive abilities, such as memory, alertness, and focus. Dalchini can enhance your memory recall and response time, according to research. If you have a lot of work to do, drinking a cup of cinnamon tea can help you relax and concentrate. More research is needed to confirm this, but it does not hurt to try some cinnamon tea when you need to be alert and focused.
#21 Sexual Benefits
That’s a bonus point for you! Not just heart and health, Cinnamon benefits sexually too. It can also enhance your sexual health and satisfaction, as studies have shown. It can do this by controlling your blood sugar levels, which can prevent diseases like diabetes that can affect your sexual performance and pleasure. Cinnamon can help you enjoy your sex life more and avoid sexual problems.
How Much Cinnamon is Okay Daily?
Experts suggest that consuming ½ to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon per day is safe. This amount is about 2 to 4 grams. Some sources say that up to 6 grams per day is also safe. However, it is important to note that there are different types of cinnamon. The two main types are Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon.
Ceylon cinnamon is often called “true cinnamon.” It is considered safer because it has lower levels of a compound called coumarin. Cassia cinnamon, which is more common, has higher levels of coumarin. Consuming too much coumarin can cause liver damage and other health issues.
To stay safe, stick to the recommended daily amount. If you use cassia cinnamon, try not to exceed ½ to 1 teaspoon daily. If you prefer Ceylon cinnamon, you can consume a bit more, but it is still wise to stay within the recommended limits.
Common Side Effects of Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a miraculous spice if consumed moderately; too much cinnamon can cause side effects, including
Some people get sores in their mouths from eating too much cinnamon. Cinnamon contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Another side effect is liver damage. This is mainly a concern with cassia cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon has high levels of a compound called coumarin. Overeating coumarin can harm your liver. It is best to limit the amount of cassia cinnamon you eat.
Cinnamon can also cause low blood sugar. This is because it mimics the effects of insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. If you eat too much cinnamon, your blood sugar might drop too low, which can make you feel tired, dizzy, or even faint.
Some people might have breathing problems from overeating cinnamon. This is especially true if you accidentally inhale cinnamon powder. This can cause coughing, choking, and trouble breathing.
Cinnamon can also cause skin irritation. Some people are allergic to cinnamon. If you put cinnamon on your skin, it might cause redness and irritation.
Lastly, too much cinnamon can cause gastrointestinal issues, including stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms are usually temporary and go away on their own.
Conclusion
Cinnamon is a miraculous spice that has many health benefits due to its various active compounds. It can help regulate blood sugar levels, lower the risk of heart disease, and fight inflammation.
However, it is important to consume it in moderate amounts to avoid adverse effects such as breathing difficulties, interactions with other medicines, or digestive problems.
FAQs
What is the Best Way to Take Cinnamon?
The best way to use cinnamon is to add it to your daily diet. You can add it to your coffee, tea, oatmeal, and smoothies or use it as a seasoning for various dishes. Using high-quality cinnamon, like Ceylon, ensures you get the most benefits.
What does Cinnamon do to the Body?
Cinnamon has numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, improves heart health, and may aid in weight loss. Additionally, it supports digestive health and boosts the immune system.
How to Drink Cinnamon Water?
To make cinnamon water, add a cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon to a glass of water and let it steep for 15-20 minutes. You can also add honey or lemon juice for added flavor. Drinking cinnamon water can aid digestion, boost metabolism, and provide antioxidant benefits.
Why is Cinnamon Called Dalchini?
Cinnamon is called “Dalchini” in Hindi, derived from the Sanskrit word “Tvak,” meaning bark. The term “Dalchini” refers to the dried inner bark of the cinnamon tree, which is used as a spice in various cuisines and traditional medicines.
How to Use Cinnamon in a Daily Diet?
You can use cinnamon in your daily diet by adding it to your morning coffee, tea, or oatmeal. Sprinkle it on fruits, yogurt, or smoothies. Use it in baking, cooking savory dishes, or making cinnamon water. It’s a versatile spice that enhances both sweet and savory dishes.
Should I Take Cinnamon in the Morning or at Night?
You can take cinnamon either in the morning or at night. Both options are fine and can be experimented with. Taking it in the morning may help with digestion and metabolism, while at night, it can aid in relaxation and sleep.
Can Cinnamon Reduce Belly Fat?
While cinnamon alone cannot target belly fat, it can aid in weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. It helps boost metabolism, regulate blood sugar levels, and control appetite, which can contribute to overall weight loss.
Is Cinnamon Good for Skin?
Yes, cinnamon is good for the skin. It has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat acne, reduce signs of aging, and improve skin health. It can be used in face masks, and scrubs or added to your diet for overall skin benefits.
Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is to provide educational information only and not to offer any medical advice or treatment. The reader should always consult with their doctor before making any health decisions. We don’t intend to replace the professional care of a healthcare provider.
