If you grew up in an Indian household, dalchini (cinnamon) was always within reach, tucked into the masala dabba, adding its distinct aroma to slow-simmering curries and morning chai. But beyond its comforting scent and flavour, cinnamon carries centuries of wisdom in its bark.
In Sanskrit, it’s called Twak, and in Hindi, it’s Dalchini. Scientifically, it’s known as Cinnamomum verum. Across India, it also goes by lavangpatra, daruchini, or sanna lavanga, reflecting its deep-rooted presence in traditional healing and daily life.
What is Dalchini?
Dalchini, a spice renowned for its distinct fragrance and warming properties, has been cherished for its rich source of antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties.
But while it’s native to Sri Lanka, cinnamon is also widely cultivated in India, especially in the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
While native to Sri Lanka, it’s also found in the southern regions of India, particularly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Known for its ability to balance the body’s energies (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) in Ayurveda, dalchini helps regulate digestion, aids respiratory issues, and promotes overall well-being.
Common Types of Dalchini
Did you know there are different types of cinnamon? While most people are aware that cinnamon grows in various regions, few realize that not all cinnamon is the same.
Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), also known as Twak in Sanskrit, is lighter in color with thin, fragile layers that roll into a neat quill. It has a mild, sweet flavor and is preferred in Ayurveda for its gentler effect on the body. It helps balance Vata (movement and flow in the body) and Kapha doshas (structure and stability in the body).
Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) is darker, thicker, and has a rougher texture, with quills that curl from both ends. It has a stronger, spicier taste and is more commonly available.
For health benefits, Ceylon cinnamon (Twak) is recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners due to its lower coumarin content and milder effect on the body.
Coumarin is a naturally occurring aromatic compound known for its vanilla-like scent and potential anticoagulant (blood thinning) properties.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two common types of Cinnamon that you can come across.
|
Feature |
Ceylon Cinnamon |
Cassia Cinnamon |
|
Looks |
Thin, fragile, multiple-layered rolls |
Thick, hard, single-layered rolls |
|
Colour |
Light brown |
Dark reddish-brown |
|
Smell |
Mild, sweet aroma |
Strong, pungent aroma |
|
Taste |
Delicate, mildly sweet |
Bold, spicy, slightly bitter |
|
Availability |
Less common, mainly in organic food stores or Ayurvedic stores |
Easily available in supermarkets |
|
Uses |
Preferred for medicinal use, desserts or teas |
Common in spicy dishes, commercial cinnamon powders |
|
Coumarin Content |
Very low (safe for regular use) |
High (excess consumption may affect the liver) |
Medicinal Usage of Dalchini (Cinnamon)
Ceylon cinnamon (Twak) and Cassia cinnamon each bring unique properties for treating various ailments.
Dalchini or Twak (Ceylon Cinnamon), with its pungent, bitter, and sweet taste, has a warming quality that balances Vata (controls movement and flow) and Kapha (provides structure and stability) doshas and slightly increases Pitta (regulating metabolism and digestion). It’s great for digestion, relieving throat pain, and reducing inflammation.
Ancient Ayurvedic texts describe Twak as a multi-functional healer:
- Vishapaha: Detoxifies the body, neutralising toxins
- Kanta Vaktra Rujahara: Soothes throat pain and irritation
- Shiroruk Hara: Alleviates headaches and heaviness in the head
- Peenasa: Helps clear nasal congestion and rhinitis
- Amavatahara: Supports relief from rheumatoid arthritis
- Kaphakasahara: Clears mucus buildup and relieves congestion
- Amahara: Aids digestion by breaking down undigested food (Ama)
Top 10 Health Benefits of Dalchini
Beyond its rich aroma, flavour, and medicinal usage, Dalchini contains bioactive compounds like coumarin and cinnamaldehyde, which contribute to its numerous health benefits. Research confirms that Twak (dalchini) have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and metabolic-supporting properties, making it a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle. Here’s how this potent spice can enhance your well-being:
- Anti-inflammatory: Cinnamaldehyde, a key compound in Dalchini, reduces inflammation, aiding conditions like arthritis and balancing Pitta dosha (dosha that governs digestion, metabolism, and body temperature).
- Natural Pain Reliever: Eugenol, found in Dalchini, has pain-relieving properties that help ease discomfort and support heart health, calming Vata imbalances (dosha that governs movement, circulation, and neural communication in the body)
- Digestive Support: Dalchini boosts Agni (digestive fire), reduces bloating, and improves nutrient absorption. If digestion is a focus for you, Karpooradi Choornam, which contains Dalchini as a key ingredient, can help ease discomfort naturally.
- Improves Respiratory Health: Dalchini clears congestion, reduces inflammation, and enhances airflow. Navajeevan Rasayanam supports your respiratory health naturally and aids in faster relief from chronic cough.
- Boosts Immunity: Compounds like cinnamic acid, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins in Dalchini protect cells, reduce inflammation, and enhance immune response.
- Blood-Thinning Properties: Coumarins in Dalchini have anticoagulant (blood thinning) properties that improve circulation. While small amounts may support healthy blood flow, higher doses can act as a blood thinner, reducing clot formation.
- Improves Oral Health: Dalchini’s antibacterial properties fight bad breath and strengthen gums, supporting overall oral hygiene.
- Kidney Function: Dalchini’s diuretic properties help flush out toxins, supporting kidney health and detoxification.
- Reproductive Health: Dalchini regulates menstrual cycles, balances hormones, and enhances male fertility by improving sperm quality and longevity.
- Brain Health: Polyphenols in Dalchini protect cognitive function, boost memory, and may help reduce the risk of neurological disorders. Saraswatharishta helps in reducing mental stress, enhancing learning through increasing attention span and intelligence, and also with the treatment of nerve disorders.
How Much Dalchini to Consume for Maximum Benefits?
Dalchini Powder can be consumed in 1-2 teaspoons or 1-3 grams twice a day with food or mixed in tea with honey.
Dalchini is most effective when used in the right amounts—but just as important is its quality. In today’s world, accessibility to ingredients is easier than ever, but not all sources guarantee purity and potency.
At Kerala Ayurveda Limited, we prioritize ethically sourced, high-quality Dalchini, used in several Ayurvedic formulations. To ensure the authenticity of our ingredients, we maintain a dedicated herbal garden and herbarium, allowing us to uphold the highest standards of purity. Our commitment to transparency ensures that every spice you consume is free from adulteration and retains its full therapeutic value.
Here's how to incorporate Dalchini into your routine:
- Cinnamon Powder with Honey: Mix 1 tsp of cinnamon powder with honey to support digestion and soothe the throat. Consume once a day for best results.
- Cinnamon Tea: Boil 1-2 tsp of cinnamon powder in water for a warm drink that aids digestion and improves circulation. Drink once or twice a day.
- Cinnamon with Ghee: Mix 1/2 tsp of cinnamon powder with ghee to boost Agni (digestive fire) and improve digestion. Consume once a day, preferably before meals.
Potential Side Effects of Excess Dalchini Consumption
Dalchini is highly beneficial when consumed in the right amounts. As suggested above, the recommended daily intake is 1-2 teaspoons (1-3 grams). Anything more than the recommended dosage is considered excessive and, over time may not be ideal.
While Dalchini offers numerous health benefits, it's good to be mindful of moderation. Certain varieties, like Cassia cinnamon, contain higher levels of coumarin, which, in excessive amounts, may not be ideal for liver health. Occasionally, consuming large quantities could cause mild mouth sensitivity. Since Dalchini supports balanced blood sugar levels, those on diabetes medication should be mindful of their intake to maintain steady glucose levels. If you're pregnant, moderate consumption is advisable, as its natural compounds may have a gentle influence on uterine activity.
Conclusion
Dalchini is something you’ve likely used before, but its health benefits go beyond just flavor. When added to your routine in moderation, it can support digestion, immunity, and overall well-being, helping you feel more balanced and energized.
Karpooradi Choornam and Saraswatharishta by Kerala Ayurveda are helpful in supporting your digestion and mental clarity, all while keeping things simple and effective. Ayurveda’s gentle approach can help you maintain long-lasting health naturally.
FAQs
1. What is Dalchini good for?
A: Dalchini is good for digestion, reproductive health, and respiratory health for its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties.
2. Can we drink Dalchini water daily?
A: Yes. Dalchini water helps with balancing insulin levels in PCOS and is consumed on an empty stomach every morning for best results.
3. How much Dalchini can you consume per day?
A: 1-2 teaspoons (1-3 grams) per day is ideal for most benefits of Dalchini. Consuming it excessively can lead to toxic side effects.
