Cinnamon is a staple spice in many cuisines and traditional foods, prized not only for its tantalizing aroma but also for its potential health benefits. Known as Dalchini in Hindi and Ilavanga Pattai in Tamil, cinnamon comes from a tree native to India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, China and parts of Bangladesh. It is brownish in color and comes from the bark of the trees belonging to the Cinnamomum family. Cinnamon, extensively prized for its healing powers, is used in holistic treatments like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and ancient Chinese medicine, primarily in the powdered form of bark or leaves or as an oil. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight acne, pimples, and other skin infections. Ayurvedic medicine highly recommends regular use of cinnamon oil to boost collagen and elastin production, thereby reducing signs of aging. Applying a paste of cinnamon bark or oil to affected areas may promote healthy, glowing skin.
