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.