Cinnamon (Dalchini): Benefits, Uses & Ayurvedic Importance
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon (Dalchini): Benefits, Uses & Ayurvedic Importance
Cinnamon, known as Dalchini in Hindi, is one of the most commonly used spices in Indian kitchens. Apart from its distinct flavor and aroma, it holds great value in Ayurveda due to its medicinal properties. Derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum tree, cinnamon is a time-tested natural remedy for various ailments ranging from colds and digestive issues to diabetes and inflammation.
What is Cinnamon (Dalchini)?
Cinnamon is a sweet and spicy bark obtained from the Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum cassia tree. It is used in both stick and powdered form in culinary and medicinal preparations. In Ayurveda, it is considered Ushna (hot in potency) and Tikta-Katu (bitter-pungent) in taste, making it ideal for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas.
Ayurvedic View on Cinnamon
In Ayurvedic medicine, Dalchini is categorized as:
Rasa (Taste): Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), Madhura (sweet post-digestive effect)
Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
Cinnamon is known for its deepana (appetizer), pachana (digestive), and krimighna (anti-parasitic) properties. It also works as a natural stimulant and detoxifier, making it beneficial for respiratory and metabolic disorders.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Improves Digestion:
Dalchini stimulates digestive fire (Agni), reduces bloating, and relieves gas and indigestion.
Regulates Blood Sugar:
Cinnamon is known to improve insulin sensitivity and help in managing Type 2 diabetes.
Boosts Immunity:
Its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties strengthen the immune system against infections.
Relieves Cold and Cough:
A warm concoction of cinnamon with honey helps clear congestion and soothes sore throats.
Reduces Inflammation:
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and pain.
Supports Heart Health:
Regular intake in small amounts can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve circulation.
Aids Weight Loss:
Cinnamon boosts metabolism and helps manage weight when used with a healthy lifestyle.
Common Uses of Dalchini in Daily Life
Culinary Spice: Used in curries, teas, baked goods, and desserts for flavor.
Herbal Teas: Cinnamon tea is soothing and detoxifying.
Face Packs: Cinnamon powder mixed with honey is used for acne-prone skin.
Hair Care: Infused in oils to reduce dandruff and promote hair growth.
Ayurvedic Medicines: Used in churnas and decoctions for respiratory and digestive problems.
Precautions and Side Effects
Excessive intake may lead to mouth ulcers or liver strain, especially with cassia cinnamon due to its coumarin content.
Pregnant or lactating women should consult a physician before use.
Always use in moderation—typically no more than 1–2 grams daily.
Cinnamon, known as Dalchini in Hindi, is one of the most commonly used spices in Indian kitchens. Apart from its distinct flavor and aroma, it holds great value in Ayurveda due to its medicinal properties. Derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum tree, cinnamon is a time-tested natural remedy for various ailments ranging from colds and digestive issues to diabetes and inflammation.
What is Cinnamon (Dalchini)?
Cinnamon is a sweet and spicy bark obtained from the Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum cassia tree. It is used in both stick and powdered form in culinary and medicinal preparations. In Ayurveda, it is considered Ushna (hot in potency) and Tikta-Katu (bitter-pungent) in taste, making it ideal for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas.
Ayurvedic View on Cinnamon
In Ayurvedic medicine, Dalchini is categorized as:
Rasa (Taste): Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), Madhura (sweet post-digestive effect)
Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
Cinnamon is known for its deepana (appetizer), pachana (digestive), and krimighna (anti-parasitic) properties. It also works as a natural stimulant and detoxifier, making it beneficial for respiratory and metabolic disorders.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Improves Digestion:
Dalchini stimulates digestive fire (Agni), reduces bloating, and relieves gas and indigestion.
Regulates Blood Sugar:
Cinnamon is known to improve insulin sensitivity and help in managing Type 2 diabetes.
Boosts Immunity:
Its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties strengthen the immune system against infections.
Relieves Cold and Cough:
A warm concoction of cinnamon with honey helps clear congestion and soothes sore throats.
Reduces Inflammation:
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and pain.
Supports Heart Health:
Regular intake in small amounts can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve circulation.
Aids Weight Loss:
Cinnamon boosts metabolism and helps manage weight when used with a healthy lifestyle.
Common Uses of Dalchini in Daily Life
Culinary Spice: Used in curries, teas, baked goods, and desserts for flavor.
Herbal Teas: Cinnamon tea is soothing and detoxifying.
Face Packs: Cinnamon powder mixed with honey is used for acne-prone skin.
Hair Care: Infused in oils to reduce dandruff and promote hair growth.
Ayurvedic Medicines: Used in churnas and decoctions for respiratory and digestive problems.
Precautions and Side Effects
Excessive intake may lead to mouth ulcers or liver strain, especially with cassia cinnamon due to its coumarin content.
Pregnant or lactating women should consult a physician before use.
Always use in moderation—typically no more than 1–2 grams daily.
