Last Updated on March 26, 2025 by Dr. Mansi Srivastava
Cinnamon is commonly known as Dalchini in India and is scientifically known as Cinnamomum verum. It is the dried bark of a specific tree found mainly in South India and Sri Lanka. In Ayurveda, Cinnamon is renowned for its numerous health benefits.
Modern science has recently begun to explore the potential health benefits of cinnamon.
Below are 9 cinnamon benefits that are supported by scientific research:
1. Strengthens Digestive System and Metabolism
Cinnamon is considered good as it revs up the digestive system. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic properties[1] which help improve gut health.
These properties help with several symptoms of piles ,like constipation, infection in the intestines, indigestion, ulcers, and even urinary tract infections.
2. Aids in Blood Sugar Control, Insulin Sensitivity and Diabetes Management
Cinnamon has been used traditionally for thousands of years in Ayurveda to manage diabetes. Now it is backed by modern scientific research that cinnamon can potentially stimulate insulin sensitivity. One study found that taking cinnamon considerably reduced insulin resistance in women with PCOS. [2]
Several studies have also shown that cinnamon can significantly bring down high blood sugar levels. [3] Consuming this ayurvedic herb has been shown to reduce the amount of glucose that is released and enters our bloodstream.
3. Protection from Heart Diseases
The symptoms of heart disease include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, raised lipid levels, obesity, and overweight. Several modern scientific studies [4] [5] [6] have shown that cinnamon can significantly bring down triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol.
Heart disease or cardiovascular ailments are mostly lifestyle-related diseases that you may get due to an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and substance abuse like tobacco, alcohol, or any other drugs.
4. Aids in Arthritis & Joint Pain
Cinnamon contains a lot of vital nutrients like manganese, calcium, iron, and dietary fibers. This spice is also a rich source of polyphenols, cinnamic acid, cinnamate, essential oils, etc. The bio-active components present in cinnamon help reduce cytokines, which are responsible for excess inflammation, thus offering relief from pain and inflammation.
These components bestow cinnamon with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [7] Both these therapeutic properties aid in joint pain relief and alleviate symptoms of arthritis. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, cinnamon may potentially benefit joint pain, swelling, and redness.
5. Aids in Cold & Flu
Dalchini or cinnamon has tikshna guna (penetrating property) and ushna virya (hot potency) as mentioned in Ayurveda. These properties make cinnamon an effective ayurvedic herb for relief from cold and flu.
Cinnamon liquifies the mucus (kapha dosha) and helps expel it from the body. This herb is also believed to have antimicrobial and anti-viral properties, which help you get relief from influenza, flu, cough, and cold.
6. Helps Treat Candidiasis
Cinnamon has powerful antibacterial and antifungal qualities, making it useful in treating a variety of microbial illnesses such as candida, ringworm, and athlete’s foot.
Cinnamon tea can help enhance general body’s general immunity against illnesses. Applying diluted cinnamon essential oil to the affected region might also help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
7. Helps Treat Candidiasis
Cinnamon has powerful antibacterial and antifungal qualities, making it useful in treating a variety of microbial illnesses such as candida, ringworm, and athlete’s foot.
Cinnamon tea can help enhance the general body’s immunity against illnesses. Applying diluted cinnamon essential oil to the affected region might also help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
8. Health Benefits of Cinnamon for Oral Care & Health
Cinnamon is often used in oral solutions due to its significant antibacterial effects.
It not only inhibits the growth of dangerous germs in the mouth, but it also promotes the growth of helpful probiotic bacteria, resulting in a cleaner mouth and aiding in the prevention of problems such as bad breath, cavities, and tooth decay.
Try oil pulling with a drop of cinnamon oil in coconut oil or sipping gently sweetened cinnamon tea to improve the health of your teeth and gums.
9. Other Health Benefits of Cinnamon
May Reverse effects of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease: Reverse Studies have shown that cinnamon may have potential benefits in reversing the effects of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, Alzheimer and Parkinson’s disease. [8] [9]
May help protect against cancer: Studies have shown that biochemicals present in cinnamon may reduce the growth of cancer-causing cells by blocking the expression of certain proteins. [10]
Final Words
Thanks to the many vital nutrients, bio-chemicals, and phytonutrients present in cinnamon, it can be beneficial as a natural home remedy to treat or manage several health concerns that you may be facing.
It can help you manage diabetes naturally, alleviate pain and inflammation if you are suffering from arthritis or joint pain, significantly reduce risks of heart disease and stroke, and may assist in managing other symptoms and ailments.
However, if you are still in doubt, feel free to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or a physician on how to incorporate cinnamon into your daily life for holistic health and wellness.
FAQ’s
1. Is Cinnamon Healthy for the Body?
Yes, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants that support overall health. It may help regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and promote heart health.
2. What Are the Benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon has a high antioxidant content and mild flavor. It may aid in blood sugar control, support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote better digestion.
3. What Are the Health Benefits of Dalchini Powder?
Dalchini (cinnamon) powder is widely used in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. It may help improve metabolism, support digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation.
4. What Are the Benefits of the Cinnamon Herb?
Cinnamon is a powerful herb known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It may support heart health, improve insulin sensitivity, aid digestion, and enhance brain function.
5. What Are the Health Benefits of Cinnamon Sticks?
Cinnamon sticks offer similar benefits to cinnamon powder, including blood sugar regulation, improved digestion, and anti-inflammatory effects. They can be used in teas, infusions, and cooking for a natural health boost.