What is Dalchini?

Cinnamon, known in Ayurveda as Dalchini, isn’t just a tasty spice in your chai or dessert — it’s a powerful medicinal herb with a rich history in healing. Sourced from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum tree, Dalchini has been treasured for centuries in India, China, and the Middle East for its aromatic warmth and therapeutic value.

In Ayurveda, Dalchini is considered a “digestive fire igniter”, a natural detoxifier, and an herb that balances the body’s internal energies — especially Vata and Kapha doshas.

With modern science validating its benefits — from regulating blood sugar to reducing inflammation — Dalchini is earning a rightful spot in today’s natural wellness toolkit.

Let’s explore the Ayurvedic profile of Dalchini, its traditional uses, health benefits, and simple home remedies you can try right in your kitchen.

Latin Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum / Cinnamomum verum
Vernacular Names:

• Hindi: Dalchini
• Bengali: Daruchini
• Tamil:  Ilavangapattai
• Telugu:  Dalchinachekka
• Kannada: Lavangapatte
• Malayalam: Karuvapatta
• Marathi: Dalchini
• Gujarati: Taja
• Punjabi:
• English : Cinnamon

Sanskrit Names:

Indradaru, Devakashta, Devdaru : One which grows in place of god

Suradaru, Surahva, Surakashta, Sura Bhuruha Suradruma :

Shakradru, Drukilinma, Amaradaru, KilimaBhadradaru : Wood of devdaru is very strong

Drukalima: On Injury stem exudate sugar

Putikashta : Wood has pleasant strong odour

Pitadru: Yellow coloured wood.

Shakrapadapa : Liked by lord Indra

Benefits & Ayurvedic Properties of Dalchini

 

Ras

• Madhur (Sweet)
• Katu ( Pungent)
• Tikth ( Bitter)

  Veerya ( Potency) 

• Ushna(Hot)

Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)

• Katu (Pungent)

 Guna ( Qualities)

• Laghu (Lightness)
• Rooksha (Dry)
• Teekshna ( Sharp)

Also read Basics of Ayurveda: Learn about Vata, Pitta, Kapha

Dosha Effect

• Balances: Vata and Kapha dosha

• May increase: Pitta (if overused) due to its hot potency

Classical Categorization

In Charak Samhita –  It is categorized as

• Shirovirechaniya  : Group of herb that are used in Nasya.
• Deepaniya: Group of herb useful in improving digestion.

• Bhavprakash Nighantu :

Health Benefits of Devdaru powder

Is dalchini helpful in improving digestion ?

The hot potency ( ushna virya) of dalchini makes it ideal for improving the Agni( digestive fire) and as a result it is useful in

• Indigestion
• Reducing Bloating and gas
• Digesting Ama ( Toxin)
• Relieving Nausea and Vommiting

Can dalchini reduce blood sugar levels ?

In Ayurveda higher blood sugar levels are resultof imbalance of Kapha dosha. Also because of stress Vata dosha also gets imbalanced. Dalchini has hot potency and sweet taste because of this it helps in balancing kapha-vata dosha. It also improves the insulin sensitivity and promotes carbohydrate metabolism. Therefore it is good for

• Pre- Diabetes people
• Type 2 Diabetes management
• Metabolic syndrome

Can dalchini be used in respiratory problems ?

Respiratory problems are known as Shwas rog in Ayurveda. In shwas roga there is imbalance of Kapha- Vata dosha. Dlachini is a hot potency herb, therefore helps in loosing the kapha (mucus) in the wind pipe and releasing the obstructed vata dosha. It provided relief from

• Asthma
• Cough
• Sinusitis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.

Supports Heart health

Excess of Kapha dosha and Ama ( toxins) are responsible for high cholesterol and triglyceride in the blood. This choloestrol deposits in the arteries that supply blood to the heart thereby reducing the blood flow to heart.  Dalchini helps in reducing the kapha dosha and Ama ( toxins) from the body and improving the blood circulation to heart to make it healthy. So it is useful in

• High cholesterol
• High Triglyceride
• Strengthening Heart function

Mental Clarity & Stress relief

Devdaru’s scent is grounding. Inhalation or massage with its oil has been known to:

• Reduce anxiety

• Calm the nervous system

• Promote better sleep

This makes it excellent for managing Vata imbalance related to overthinking and restlessness.

Actions (Karma) of Devdaru in Ayurveda

• Shothahara – Reduces inflammation and oedema

• Vatahara – Calms Vata dosha

• Shulahara – Relieves pain

• Krimighna – Destroys worms and microbes

• Kaphahara – Clears phlegm and congestion

• Kushtahar – Good for skin diseases

• Anilhara : Balances vata dosha, useful in neurological condition

• Amahara : Relieves Ama(toxins) from the body

• Shwashara: Useful in treatment of Asthma & chronic respiratory disorder.

• Hickaahar: Relieves hiccups

• Mehagna : Useful in treatment of Urinary tract disorder and diabetes.

• Adhmanahar : Relieves bloating and gaseous distention of abdomen.

• Kandughna : Useful is relieving pruritis.

Chemical compostion

Dalchini’s health benefits come from its essential oils, polyphenols, and aromatic compounds found in the bark. The major active constituents found in dalchini are

Cinnamadehyde (60 -80%) it is the main bioactive compound and forms 60 to 80 % .

Eugenol (5-10%)

Linalol, Coumarin, Cinnamic acid, tannins, mucilage and polysaccharide, proanthocyanidins ( type A)

How to use Dalchini

Dalchini  can be consumed in various forms, including:

• Dalchini churna:  1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of dalchini powder two times a day with honey or plain water. Take it empty stomach
• Dalchini tea:  Take two cup of water add small piece of cinnamon to it and boil till 1 cup water is left. Strain and let it cool. Sip this tea in then morning and evening.

• Part Used :  Inner bark

What are the side effects of Dalchini

 Like any other Ayurvedic herb dalchini is having many health benefits . However , it may have some side effects as well They include

Allergic Rashes

If someone is sensitive to devdaru they may see skin rashes or redness and ithcing. In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .

Heartburn :

Because of its hot potency it may cause heartburn and increase acidity. Use with caution in People having pitta prakriti.

May Effect liver health:

 Long-term high use of Cassia cinnamon may affect liver health due to coumarin

Precautions

Avoid taking Dalchini if you are taking any blood thinners or have history of bleeding problems.

During breast feeding avoid consuming Dalchini.

Avoid consuming Dalchini during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.

Always use Dalchini in recommended dosage  to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.

If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using dalchini. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.

Don’t use dalchini continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.

Store dalchini in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.

Home Remedies of Dalchini

Cinnamon oil for massages

Ingredients:

• 2 drops Dalchini essential oil

• 1 tbsp coconut or sesame oil

Method: Mix and apply on chest ,feet and on parts affected by pain

 Relieves  pain, cold, sinus congestion, and body aches.

Dalchini for cough

Ingredients:

• 1/4 tsp Dalchini powder

• 1 tsp raw honey

Method: Mix and consume twice daily

 Great for sore throat, cough, and boosting immunity and weight loss.

Dalchini Tea for boosting digestion

To make the  you need following ingredients:

• Dalchini  – 1 small stick

• Ginger –  one small piece

• Turmeric – one pinch

• Water- 2 cups

How to make 
Add all the three ingredients in water and boil it till 1 cup water is left. Strain it. Now sip this tea empty stomach in morning.

This helps to improve digestion and also relieve the inflammation.

Frequently asked question

1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?

Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.

2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?

Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.

3. With western/modern medicine

Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.

When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.

4. How long does devdaru take to start showing benefits ?

It depend on  any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly devdaru powder benefits are seen.

5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?

Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.

6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?

No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.

Ayurvedic medicine that contains devdaru

Devdar is the main ingredients in following medicines

Ajmodadi churna :  It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to treat osteo arthritis of knee joint, back pain and sciatica.

 Devdarvadi kwath: This decoction is used in treatment of cold, cough, bronchitis and asthma.

Chandraprabha Vati : This is very famous ayurvedic medicine used in treatment of urinary tract problems, diabetes, enlarged prostrate and male sexual problems.

Conclusion

Devdaru is more than just a fragrant Himalayan tree—it’s a gift from nature, loaded with healing powers. From joint health and respiratory relief to skin clarity and mental peace, this ancient herb continues to offer value in our modern world.

Its versatility, grounding energy, and natural potency make it one of Ayurveda’s most treasured botanicals.

So the next time you light incense, massage with herbal oil, or sip a decoction for cough, think of Devdaru—the divine tree that heals from root to soul.

Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.

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Disclaimer  :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.

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