Here are detailed insights on Cinnamon Sticks / Darchini:

General Information

• Botanical Name:

  • Cinnamomum verum (True cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon)

  • Cinnamomum cassia (Cassia, more common and cheaper variety)

• Common Names: Cinnamon, Darchini (Hindi), Dalchini (Marathi), Ilavangappattai (Tamil)

• Family: Lauraceae

• Origin: Native to Sri Lanka, India, and Southeast Asia

• Form: Dried inner bark rolled into sticks (quills) or ground into powder

• Aroma & Taste: Sweet, woody, and warm with a spicy edge

Culinary Uses

• Used in both sweet and savory dishes: biryanis, curries, desserts, tea, spiced milk, and baking

• An essential ingredient in garam masala, chai masala, and mulled beverages

• Often added whole to hot oil (tempering) or slow-cooked stews

Health Benefits

1. Regulates Blood Sugar – Especially effective in improving insulin sensitivity

2. Powerful Antioxidant – Rich in polyphenols that combat oxidative stress

3. Anti-inflammatory – Helps reduce inflammation in joints and tissues

4. Heart Health – Lowers cholesterol and improves circulation

5. Supports Brain Function – May help protect against neurodegenerative diseases

6. Antibacterial & Antifungal – Fights infections, especially in the mouth and digestive tract

7. Aids Digestion – Soothes gas, indigestion, and nausea

8. Freshens Breath – Natural breath freshener and oral cleanser

Nutritional Value (per 100g approx.)

• Calories: ~247 kcal

• Fiber: 53g

• Carbohydrates: 81g

• Protein: 4g

• Rich in: Calcium, iron, manganese, vitamin K, and cinnamaldehyde (active compound)

Precautions

• Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which can be toxic in large quantities—limit daily intake

• Not recommended in large medicinal doses during pregnancy

• May interact with blood sugar or blood-thinning medications

Home Remedy (Cinnamon Water for Metabolism & Immunity)

Ingredients:

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 glass hot water
  Method: Steep for 5–10 minutes and drink on an empty stomach
  Benefits: Boosts metabolism, improves digestion, supports blood sugar regulation