The Top Ten Benefits and Uses of Rou Gui (Cinnamon): Dietary Restrictions and Methods of Consumption
Rou Gui (Cinnamon) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with a rich array of benefits. Below are some of the main effects and uses of Rou Gui:
Calming and Analgesic: Rou Gui contains cinnamaldehyde, which has anti-excitatory and analgesic properties. It acts on the central nervous system to suppress neuronal activity, achieving a calming and pain-relieving effect.
Tonifying Yang and Warming: Rou Gui has a spicy and sweet flavor, and is considered very warming. It can tonify Yang and return fire to the source, useful for conditions like cold in the uterus, cold pain in the lower back and knees, and kidney deficiency with wheezing.
Invigorating Blood and Regulating Menstruation: Rou Gui contains a significant amount of cinnamon oil, which has a certain volatility and can promote blood circulation, leading to uterine congestion and facilitating menstruation.
Warming the Spleen and Stomach: The warming nature of Rou Gui is beneficial for the spleen and stomach, helping to alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cold hernia.
Dispelling Cold Accumulation: Rou Gui can disperse cold, especially in cases of cold stagnation. It helps improve conditions by warming the blood, dispelling stasis, and unblocking the meridians.
Boosting Immunity: Long-term consumption of Rou Gui can enhance the body’s immunity, particularly beneficial for those with cold extremities.
Improving Cardiac Function: Rou Gui can improve symptoms related to the heart and enhance cardiac contractility.
Regulating Blood Sugar: Rou Gui can assist in regulating blood sugar levels, providing benefits for individuals with diabetes.
Antibacterial: Rou Gui also possesses antibacterial properties, helping to combat certain bacterial infections.
Improving Mental State: Rou Gui can suppress excessive emotional agitation, providing a calming effect.
Regarding dietary restrictions for Rou Gui, the main points include:
Patients with Acute Inflammation or Lupus Should Avoid: Rou Gui is a warming herb. Those experiencing symptoms of heat such as thirst, dry throat, sore throat, or nosebleeds, as well as various acute inflammatory conditions, should avoid it. Additionally, individuals with lupus or tuberculosis should refrain from using Rou Gui, as it may hinder treatment and recovery.
Pregnant Women Should Use Caution: Due to its warming nature, Rou Gui can deplete intestinal moisture, reducing gastrointestinal secretions and leading to dryness and constipation. Furthermore, its blood-invigorating properties may pose risks to pregnancy, potentially causing miscarriage or premature labor.
Infants and Young Children Should Use Caution: The warming nature of Rou Gui can lead to excessive heat in infants, causing dryness and constipation. Some infants may also have allergic reactions to Rou Gui, commonly presenting as dermatitis.
Additionally, the following groups should avoid Rou Gui:
Individuals with Yin Deficiency and Excess Heat: Those with a hot constitution may experience exacerbated symptoms after consuming Rou Gui.
Individuals Allergic to Medicinal Ingredients: Should avoid Rou Gui to prevent allergic reactions.
Individuals Taking Chi Shi Zhi and Its Preparations: According to the compatibility prohibitions in traditional Chinese medicine, Rou Gui and Chi Shi Zhi should not be taken together.
Methods of consuming Rou Gui include:
Internal Use: Can be decocted, made into pills, or powdered.
External Use: Can be ground into powder for oral use or soaked in alcohol for topical application.
Please note that the above information is for reference only. Consult a professional doctor or pharmacist if needed.