Herbs Guide

Cinnamon

Family Name: Lauracae

Botanical Name(s): Cinnamomum zeylanicum

Popular Name(s): Laurus Cinnamomum, Dalchini

Parts Used: Bark

Habitat: Cinnamon is found widely in Sri Lanka but grows in Malabar, Cochin-China, Sumatra and in Eastern Islands too. It is cultivated in Brazil, Mauritius, India, Jamaica and in other countries also.

Description: Cinnamon is an evergreen tree which grows from 20 to 30 feet. The plant has strong branches and thick scabrous bark which is smooth and yellowish. In colour, the leaves are dark green on top and lighter green underneath. It has small yellowish-white flowers with a disagreeable odour that bears dark purple berries. The fruits are oval and berry like.

Uses: Cinnamon bark is used as a spice. It is employed in cookery as a condiment and flavouring material. It is carminative, astringent, stimulant, antiseptic in action. The essential oil of this herb is a potent antibacterial, anti-fungal, and uterine stimulant. It stops vomiting, relieves flatulence and is useful in diarrhoea and haemorrhage of the womb. Recent studies suggest that consuming as little as one-half teaspoon of Cinnamon each day may reduce blood sugar and cholesterol level.