Cassia commonly referred to as Chinese cinnamon, is widely cultivated for its aromatic bark. Native to southern China, the twigs of this plant have been used for centuries in the food and cosmetics industries due to their powerful medicinal, antibacterial, and anti-allergic properties, Cassia twigs are believed to help treat conditions like inflammation, menstrual disorders, digestive issues and promote detoxification. it grows to about ten to twelve meters in height, with glossy green leaves and small, pale-yellow flowers. The article delves into Cassia twigs, which come from the aromatic Cinnamomum cassia plant in the Lauraceae family, its health benefits and uses.
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The cassia bark is thick, rougher, and darker than popular Ceylon cinnamon, with a more robust and spicier flavor. Cinnamomum cassia is often confused with Cassia auriculata (An Asian flowering shrub from the Fabaceae family). However, Cassia Presl belongs to a different plant family, exhibiting key distinctions in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Cassia?
Cassia has many potential health benefits, including:
- Imbued with anti-inflammatory properties, cassia twigs can help to soothe pain and inflammation
- The twigs can be beneficial to manage and treat inflammation-mediated neurodegenerative diseases
- Cassia twigs have antibacterial and antiviral properties. This makes them helpful in curing mild to chronic fever
- Cassia twigs can also be helpful to improve blood circulation and vasodilation
- The twigs have anti-tumour properties and may help to heal tumours
- Known to be imbued with ‘tocolyticm benefits’ cassia twigs can decrease uterine activity
- A powerful bug-repellent cassia oil can be used as a natural bug repellent
What Are Cassia Uses In Daily Life?
Here are some common ways to use Cassia twigs:
Medicinal Use: Cassia twigs have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. They can be used in herbal teas or decoctions to help treat a variety of health issues, to prepare a medicinal drink, simply boil the twigs in water for ten to twelve minutes. Strain and drink.
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Culinary Use: In some cultures, Cassia twigs are used as a spice, much like cinnamon. They can be added to stews, soups, or teas to impart a warm, aromatic flavor. Cassia bark is also used in baking and as a flavoring agent in sweets and savory dishes.
Aromatic Uses: Cassia twigs can be used in potpourri or as incense to create a pleasant fragrance in homes. Their aromatic oils are believed to have a calming and uplifting effect.
Cosmetic Use: In some cosmetic formulations, cassia extracts are actively used. Owing to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, the leaves and bark are used in many hair and skincare products. The antioxidant content helps to fight signs of ageing and helps to diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
How To Make Cassia Herbal Tea?
Making a simple tea from Cassia twigs is easy and involves just a few basic steps. Here is how you can prepare it:
Ingredients
- 2-3 Cassia twigs (or about 1-2 teaspoons of crushed Cassia bark, if twigs are not available)
- 2 cups of water
- Honey or sweetener
- A slice of lemon
Method
Crush the Cassia twigs into smaller pieces to release their natural oils and flavors. If you are using Cassia bark, just chop it into smaller bits. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Once the water is boiling, add the twigs or crushed bark to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about ten minutes to infuse the water with its properties. After the desired brewing time, strain the tea into a cup to remove the twigs or bark pieces. Add honey for sweetness or a slice of lemon for added flavor. This tea can be consumed once or twice a day and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits.
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A Word Of Caution
Always consult with a healthcare provider before using Cassia for medicinal purposes, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or you are taking other medications.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile: Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Impact of Cassia Bark Consumption on Glucose and Lipid Control in Type 2 Diabetes: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34408931/
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13813455.2020.1822415