Who would have thought that cinnamon is actually the inner bark of a small evergreen tree which grows in Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Brazil, Vietnam, Asia and Egypt.

The tree stems are cut down so that new shoots will grow. These shoots are then stripped of their bark; the outer bark is removed and discarded and only the inner bark is dried. As the inner bark dries it curls up into neat rolls known as quills. These quills are then cut into sticks of desired length, or they are ground into a fine powder.

Cinnamon is a natural spice with many healing powers. The scent alone increases memory and other brain activities.

Cinnamon is a good source of manganese, dietary fiber, iron, and calcium. It's high in antioxidants, increases energy and vitality, and improves blood circulation.

It is used to cure the common cold and arthritis. It helps to treat many ailments such as gas, diarrhea and other digestive problems, nausea, morning sickness, menstrual pain, yeast infections, stomach ulcers, and head lice.

Cinnamon also helps to reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics, lowers cholesterol, helps to keep the blood from clotting, and improves the health of the colon. It fights against cancer, heart disease, tooth decay and bad breath.

It is said that cinnamon mixed with honey can cure just about all sicknesses.

To obtain the maximum benefits of cinnamon it is recommended to consume ½ to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon throughout the day.

Cinnamon goes well with just about anything; simply sprinkle on oatmeal, cooked rice, apples, pears, orange juice, salads, coffee, tea, and other drinks.

There is no need to worry about any side-effects if consumed moderately. You should be able to safely consume up to 2 teaspoons a day without any side-effects, although it could vary from person to person. Pregnant women should check with their doctors before using cinnamon as any sort of treatment.

Some of the side-effects of cinnamon if consumed in large dosages include skin irritation, shortness of breath, fast pulse, fast breathing, tongue inflammation, and inflamed or cracked lips. So please consume in moderation.