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The Health Benefits of Cinnamon: What You Need To Know
What is Cinnamon?
According to Wikipedia, cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. It is the name for several species of trees and the commercial spice products that some of them produce (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/cinnamon).
History of Cinnamon
Cinnamon was important to Egypt as early as 2,000 BC. Back then, cinnamon was considered to be a prize among the ancient nations and as such was for the monarchs or a deity. Apollos Temple in Miletus, has an inscription of a gift of cinnamon and cassia. The Egyptians used it as part of their embalming mummies. There are different types of cinnamon for example, Cinnamomum verum is native to India, Sri Lanka whereas Cinnamomum cassia is native to China. When buying cinnamon you need to make sure which one is the one you want.
Cinnamon is identified as and evergreen tree with oval-shaped leaves, thick bark, and a berry fruit. Bark and leaves are the primary parts of the plant that is used when harvested.
Uses of Cinnamon
You can use cinnamon sticks to flavor drinks (hot chocolate, hot apple cider, or mulled wine), pickling brine, fruit compotes, soups, stews, sauces and marinades.
You can also mix cinnamon with sugar and sprinkle on toast, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, or any food you want the taste of cinnamon.
Health Benefits
Fungal Infections
Since cinnamon oil has antimicrobial properties it might treat a type of Candida that affects the bloodstream.
Influence Blood Sugar Levels
According to a 2015 review "60 people with type 2 diabetes consumed up to 6 grams (g) of cinnamon per day for between 40 days and 4 months, they had lower serum glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol but according to a 2012 review it was concluded that cinnamon does not help lower levels of glucose or glycosylated hemoglobin A1c in type 1 or 2 diabetes according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) (medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266069#benefits).
Preventing Alzheimer's Disease
There is an extract in the cinnamon bark called CEppt that has properties that might prevent symptoms from developing but more studies need to be done.
Some people use cinnamon to treat loss of appetite, bronchitis, diabetes, digestive issues, and other conditions.
Helps Regulate Menstrual Cycles
Drinking cinnamon water can help reduce period cramps and regulate your cycle. It does that by balancing the hormones and increasing the blood flow in the uterus.
Cancer
Cinnamaldehyde antioxidants that can fight cancer cells and boost the immune system.
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving size: 1 tablespoon | |
| Calories | 19 |
| Calories from Fat | 9 |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Fat 1 g | 2% |
| Saturated fat 0 g | |
| Unsaturated fat 0 g | |
| Carbohydrates 6 g | 2% |
| Sugar 2 g | |
| Fiber 4 g | 16% |
| Protein 1 g | 2% |
| Cholesterol 0 mg | |
| Sodium 1 mg | |
| * The Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet, so your values may change depending on your calorie needs. The values here may not be 100% accurate because the recipes have not been professionally evaluated nor have they been evaluated by the U.S. FDA. | |
Cinnamon Tea Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 6 cinnamon sticks, (4-inch)
- 4 lemon slices
- honey, to taste
Instructions
- Boil water and cinnamon sticks together in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Then cover. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in a cup and steep for 5 more minutes.
- Add the lemon slices and the honey.
Side Effects
The common side effects of cinnamon is irritation (in mouth or lips causing sores), allergic reactions if you are allergic to cinnamon, it may lower your blood sugar if you a diabetic or take cinnamon supplements, and may react to some medications.
Children, pregnant women, or women who are breastfeeding should consult a doctor before using any type of cinnamon.
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and does not substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, and/or dietary advice from a licensed health professional. Drugs, supplements, and natural remedies may have dangerous side effects. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
