Abstract

CINNAMON: AN IMPERATIVE SPICE FOR HUMAN HEALTH

Singh Shikha* and Gupta Alka

ABSTRACT

Herbs and spices have been used since ancient times, because of their antimicrobial activity increasing the safety and shelf life of food products. Many herbal remedies have been employed in various medical systems for the treatment and management of different diseases. Cinnamon is a spice that has ancient origins and is popularly used as a flavoring in cooking. Cinnamon is also known to provide medical benefits that include lowring blood cholesterol for diabetes, and beneficial for heart disease. Cinnamon is obtained from the bark of the cinnamon tree. Today, cinnamon is not only known for as a strong spice, but it has gained tremendous applications in therapeutic intervention. The bark is essential for extracting essential oil. The unique aroma and pungency of cinnamon are attributed to the compounds cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic aldehyde. Giving due importance to the health benefits of cinnamon, rigorous studies have been done regarding nutrition facts. Low in cholesterol, saturated fats, sugar and sodium. Cinnamon is an excellent flavouring ingredient for people with heart disease. Cinnamon contains polyphenols which contains antioxidants, that help in regulating blood sugar levels. Certain compounds present in cinnamon stimulate the insulin receptors and thus help the body to use up glucose in the right way. Studies have shown that cinnamon can prove beneficial for human health. Cinnamon improves insulin resistance, that helps in weight control.

Keywords: Cinnamaldehyde; LDL; Therapeutic applications; cinnamic aldehyde.