July 04, 2018 2 min read

Introduction: Cinnamomum Verum 

Cinnamon | दालचीनी | இலவங்கப்பட்டை | ದಾಲ್ಚಿನ್ನಿ | দারুচিনি

A common condiment found in every Indian kitchen; cinnamon is obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. It is used as an aromatic additive to flavour different sweet and savoury dishes.

Apart from having exceptional flavour, cinnamon offers extensive health benefits, thanks to the essential oil, cinnamaldehyde and other components like eugenol.

 

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Health Benefits of Cinnamon

Anti-aging effect: It is found to be extremely rich in antioxidants that reduce the free radicals and slow down the ageing process. Cinnamon also stimulates collagen synthesis that maintains skin firmness

Relieves pain and inflammation: Compounds in cinnamon are highly effective in fighting inflammation & provides relief from pain. They can alleviate muscle soreness, menstrual cramps, severe allergic reactions and other age-related symptoms as well.

Fights Bacterial and Fungal Infections: ‘Cinnamaldehyde’, the main component of cinnamon, fights various kinds of infections and respiratory problems like common cold and cough, sore throat etc. It also prevents the growth of certain harmful bacteria in the body. Antimicrobial effects of cinnamon in the mouth help prevent tooth decay and reduce bad breath. No wonder that toothpaste and chewing gum brand favour it!

Lowers Blood Sugar: Cinnamon is known for lowering blood sugar levels. Insulin is the hormone that controls the blood glucose level. Resistance to insulin is often found in some individuals, which may cause serious conditions like Diabetes, heart diseases & stroke. Cinnamon can dramatically reduce insulin resistance and lowers blood sugar levels by decreasing the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream.

Effects on Neurodegenerative Diseases: Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are neurodegenerative diseases caused by loss of the structure of brain cells. Compounds in cinnamon inhibit the buildup and aggregation of a protein called ‘Tau’ in the brain, which is one of the main reasons for these diseases.

Cuts the risk of Heart Disease: Rich in calcium, manganese and fibre, it prevents various heart diseases & reduces levels of bad cholesterol (LDL). Cinnamaldehyde inhibits aggregation of platelets which prevents the formation of blood clots, reducing the chances of stroke or heart attack.


Here’s more to the power of spices and how they nurture our lives.


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