Dalchini
Dalchini popularly known as cinnamon is one of the miraculous spices gifted by mother nature. Dalchini benefits go far beyond its pleasant taste and aroma. A small evergreen tree with aromatic bark of about 6-8 m in height found growing wild in southern coastal regions of India. The bark is used as culinary spice and also in medicines.
It’s Latin name is Cinnamomum zeylanicum and belongs to Lauraceae family.
Chemical Composition –
Cinnamon bark oil contains eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, benzaldehyde, methyl amyl ketone, phellandrene, pinene, cymene, nonyl aldehyde, carophyllene and ester of isobutyric acid.
Parts Used –
Cinnamon can be consumed in many ways, which are:-
• leaves
• Dalchini twak (bark)
• Root
• Oil
Dosage –
A safe dosage of Dalchini/ Cinnamon consumption is 6 grams a day.
• Bark powder – 1 to 3 grams
• Leaf powder – 1 to 3 grams
• Oil – 2 to 5 drops
Benefits –
• Brain Health
Dalchini has an enhancing effect on the brain. According to research, when it is consumed as a flavoring agent or as when inhaled boosted the participant’s brain functions related to attention, virtual recognition, working memory, and visual-motor reaction rate.
• Alzheimer’s Disease
Dalchini can delay the onset of or mitigate the effects of Alzheimer’s. The reason is two essential compounds in it: Cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin that helps in protecting the brain health in these mental disorders.
• Weightloss
Dalchini changes how the metabolism of sugar occurs in the body and stops it from turning into fat. It slows down the rate at which food passes out of the stomach, which prevents in getting hungry quickly. In a weight loss diet if you add dalchini it prevents you from constant cravings for food.
• Fights Infections
Dalchini can fight infections caused by a multitude of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It’s bark is composed of cinnamaldehyde which is known to be highly anti-viral in addition to anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, Dalchini bark is composed of phenols, in particular eugenol, which is a good germ killer.
• Pre Menstrual Symptoms (PMS)
Low levels of manganese in the body may increase the intensity of PMS. Cinnamon is a good source of manganese and calcium. So consuming dalchini can make the PMS symptoms more tolerable.
Cinnamaldehyde in dalchini shows anti-spasmodic effects which help in smooth muscle contractions in the uterus.
• Reduces Stress
It’s extracts have been shown to affect stress levels by managing hormones from adrenal glands, managing blood sugar & cholesterol levels in the body. Other than lowering the stress levels by affecting the adrenal glands, the scent of cinnamon can help with relieving stress and promote relaxation.
• Dental Pain
People who are suffering from toothache , they can take advantage of cinnamon .Apply cinnamon oil on the teeth with cotton. This will give relief.
• Cough
Using cinnamon is beneficial for the treatment of cough . People suffering from cough should take half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder with 2 teaspoons of honey in the morning and evening. This gives relief from cough.
Side Effects –
• Overconsumption of Dalchini can cause liver damage. Use dalchini in small amounts ( 1/2 – 1 teaspoon/day).
• Pregnant and Nursing women must avoid cinnamon. If they are using it for pre-existing conditions, then they must consult the doctor before continuing.
• Do not sniff Cinnamon oil directly from the bottle. Use infusers for using cinnamon oil for relaxing mind, calming, stress relief and other therapeutic purpose.
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