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Cinnamon, also known as ceylon cinnamon (cinnamomum verum), comes from the Sri Lankan island called Ceylon. This tree grows naturally in warm parts of South Asia and has been grown for hundreds of years due to its delightful smell and many uses. Nowadays, it is well-known for its health advantages and is a favorite spice in kitchens around the globe. There are four kinds of cinnamon: ceylon cinnamon, which is commonly seen in grocery stores, has a stronger taste and contains more coumarin, which might be harmful in high doses.
The third variety is called saigon cinnamon, notable for its strong taste and scent, making it ideal for baking and cooking. The last one is korintje cinnamon, used commonly in the United States, which has a sweet and gentle flavor that makes it great for desserts. These different kinds of cinnamon offer various flavors, scents, and health benefits, making them good for different types of cooking. When making cinnamon water, just a few minutes in hot water can bring out its rich smell and unique taste. Drinking cinnamon water on an empty stomach is suggested, and studies indicate it may have health benefits. Research from India and other countries suggests it could help with cholesterol, blood pressure, and antioxidants, but caution is advised since it should work alongside medical care.
Heart disease is the top cause of death worldwide, and India faces a significant challenge with heart problems. The World Health Organization reports that heart diseases cause over 20 million deaths each year globally. In India, changes in lifestyle, diet, and increased diabetes cases have led to a need for simple solutions rooted in local culture. Cinnamon (cinnamomum spp.), often referred to as dalchini in local languages, has been used in Ayurveda for aiding digestion and metabolism for a long time. Nowadays, drinking cinnamon water on an empty stomach is being encouraged as a natural support for heart health. But what do credible scientific studies and Indian research tell us? A systematic review from 2025 published in the Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition looked at how cinnamon might affect heart health. The researchers found that cinnamon could slightly lower heart health markers like total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), and triglycerides, while increasing HDL cholesterol (the good kind). Here’s how consuming cinnamon water could help reduce the risks associated with heart disease:
Lowering cholesterol: Cinnamon is associated with decreased levels of LDL and triglycerides, which are types of fat present in the bloodstream.
Effects on blood pressure: Some studies indicated slight decreases in systolic blood pressure, which is the force in the arteries when the heart pumps.
Antioxidant benefits: Compounds in cinnamon may help lessen oxidative stress, which is the imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body that can lead to heart disease.
Limitations: The evidence is not consistent; different doses and preparation methods exist. This understanding is crucial since there are various types of cinnamon, and the way it is prepared impacts effectiveness when seeking natural health remedies.
A study conducted this year looked at how ceylon cinnamon is extracted in adults. It showed notable enhancements in lipid profiles, which involve measuring fat levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides, and glucose control, both important for managing heart disease risks. The following are ways that ceylon cinnamon extract contributed to heart health in this research:
Enhanced lipid profile: decrease in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Blood sugar management: improved insulin sensitivity, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
Safety profile: no significant negative effects noted with controlled usage.
Risks and warnings for cinnamon water:
Limit excessive intake: Although many in India drink cinnamon water, it’s essential to be careful with the amount because of coumarin, which can be damaging to the liver.
Recommended amount: A daily intake of half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder or one small stick boiled in water.
Medication interactions: It may affect blood thinners and diabetes drugs.
Caution during pregnancy: Should not be consumed without a doctor's advice.
Supportive role: Should complement prescribed treatments rather than replace them.
Drinking cinnamon water on an empty stomach is a common practice in India and is beginning to receive support from scientific findings. Various studies suggest possible advantages for managing cholesterol, improving antioxidant levels, and regulating blood pressure. Nonetheless, it is essential to recognize that cinnamon water is not a treatment on its own and should be carefully integrated into a more comprehensive lifestyle approach under medical guidance. In India, where heart disease is increasingly common, such affordable interventions could be beneficial but should always be used alongside professional medical care.
