English/ Common Name- Cinnamon Tree
Local name - ದಾಲ್ಚಿನ್ನಿ / ಚಕ್ಕೆ
Botanical Name- Cinnamomum Verum
Appearance- Cinnamon Tree grows more than 15 meters (49 feet) in height. The thick simple leaves have smooth margins and are usually oval; the veins are roughly parallel to each other. Young leaves are red and mature to a deep green. The small bisexual flowers are greenish to yellow and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a dark drupe. The spice, consisting of the dried inner bark, is brown in color and has a delicately fragrant aroma and a warm sweet flavor.
Origin- Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, the neighboring Malabar Coast of India and Myanmar (Burma), and is also cultivated in South America and the West Indies.
Conditions required for Growth- Cinnamon is suitable for a wide variety of climatic conditions. It thrives well at an altitude of about 1000 m and a yearly rainfall of 200-250 cm is suitable for cinnamon cultivation. It requires a hot and humid climate and an average temperature of 27°C. A well-draining soil is of primary importance as Cinnamon tree roots will rot if allowed to sit in water for extended periods. A mixture of soil, sand and perlite is highly recommended for proper drainage.
Uses- Cinnamon has anti-viral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It helps to relieve digestive discomfort; Menstrual cramps and it also reduces blood pressure. It is mainly used as an aromatic condiment and a flavoring additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savory dishes, breakfast cereals, tea, and traditional foods.
Common Remedies-
- To Cure Toothache (Part of the tree used - Bark) – Mix about 1 teaspoon of cinnamon bark powder and 5 teaspoons of honey to make a sticky paste. Apply right on your tooth several times a day until your pain is gone.
- To Cure Cough or Dry Throat (Part of the tree used - Bark) - Add 1 tbsp of cinnamon bark powder and 2 tbsp of honey to a cup of water. Boil and simmer till everything is dissolved. Sip on this drink throughout the day to relieve a cough or dry throat.
