Botanical Overview
Cinnamomum tamala, commonly known as Indian bay leaf, tejpatta, or Malabar leaf, belongs to the Lauraceae family. The primary medicinal part used is the leaf. It is native to the South Asian region, particularly the Indian subcontinent, where it is valued for both culinary and medicinal use.
Energetics
This herb is considered warming and drying in nature, with aromatic, bitter, and pungent tastes. Its energetic qualities are ascending and tonifying, primarily affecting the qi.
Primary Actions
- Carminative
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Digestive stimulant
- Antioxidant
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Respiratory congestion
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Respiratory infections
TCM
- Digestive stagnation
- Cold-related digestive disorders
- Phlegm accumulation
Syndromes
- Spleen Qi deficiency
- Cold-damp accumulation
Ayurveda
- Poor digestion
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Cold cough
- Rheumatism
Syndromes
- Kapha imbalance
- Vata disorders
- Ama (toxins) accumulation
Unani
- Digestive difficulties
- Cough
- Chest congestion
Syndromes
- Reeh (gas-related disorders)
- Balgham (phlegm) disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, glycosides, tannins, polyphenols, and methyl chavicol, which contribute antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 1-3 g dried leaf taken 1-3 times daily
- Powder 0.5-1 g daily
- Essential oil used topically (diluted) or in aromatherapy
Safety & Contraindications
Cinnamomum tamala is generally safe in culinary amounts; however, medicinal doses warrant caution in pregnancy and bleeding disorders. Allergies to cinnamon species should be avoided. Possible interactions include additive effects with anticoagulants and enhancement of hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetic drugs.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-founded planetary or elemental rulers have been identified from credible tradition-focused sources.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future: Cinnamomum tamala Monograph
- Kumari S, et al. (2014) Phytochemical and antimicrobial study of Cinnamomum tamala leaf extracts. PubMed.
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (2004)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (2008)