Cinnamon is the aromatic, dried bark of any of several tropical trees (genus Cinnamomum)- family Lauraceae yielding a culinary spice, oil and flavouring. The dark brown spice, which is prepared from the stem bark by powdering, has a very warm, sweet taste and smell. When not powdered, strips of the bark eventually curl up into what is known as cinnamon sticks today.
The spice is used in flavoring juices, drinks, peanut butter (you will love the taste)! It is also used with meat dishes, such as the recipe for goat stew and in many confectionaries. Apart from its culinary values, cinnamon is also highly medicinal and is one spice you should consider including in your regime.
Documentation and research carried out on the species indicate a wide range of phytochemical compounds, including essential oil, glycosides, flavonoids, phenols and tannins. Cinnamon has appreciable amounts of calcium, fiber and manganese, as well as antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral properties. The active properties of cinnamon have many therapeutic applications in many traditional medicines as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, digestive, carminative, astringent, stimulant, antiseptic and aphrodisiac functions.
So let’s see what cinnamon is beneficial for:
Antioxidant defense: A tablespoon of cinnamon powder consumed 2 X daily for a course of therapy can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Arthritis: Cinnamaldehyde, an oily compound responsible for cinnamon’s aroma and flavour alleviates inflammation from arthritis. Infuse 1 tsp. of cinnamon, add 1 tbsp. of unadulterated honey and take this first thing in the morning. If used for a while, it will help alleviate immobility associated with arthritis. The essential oil when diluted with carrier oil, like olive oil soothes away arthritic pains.
Aching joints: Those who are suffering from joint pain are also advised to drink cinnamon water for relief; thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce excessive pain. It also helps in boosting blood circulation. To alleviate your aching joints take warm cinnamon water.
Infected wounds: it’s antimicrobial compounds when combined with those from peppermint kill biofilms as well as actively promote healing.
Skin infections: Applyi
ng cinnamon and honey in equal parts to the affected areas will help eczema, ringworm and many other skin infections.
Chronic cough: Infusing a teaspoon of cinnamon powder in freshly boiled water gives you a water-soluble fiber (mucilage). Drink this 3 X daily for about7 days to help soothe your sore throat and that lingering cough. Cinnamon’s mucilage and antibacterial properties make the spice a powerful arsenal that should always be in your home.
Nausea relief: When ingested, cinnamon tea works well in helping relieve nausea because of the catechins in the spice. Boil 1 teaspoon of cinnamon bark in a cup of water for about 10 minutes, strain the liquid and drink.
Bad breath: Gargle one tablespoon of cinnamon powder mixed in warm water to keep the breath fresh all day long. You may add honey, if desired.
Athlete’s foot: Soaking your feet in cinnamon water aids will kill the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Add a few cinnamon sticks to freshly boiled water and allow to stand till a tolerable temperature is reached. Soak your feet for 15 – 30 minutes per night.
Cognitive function: Research has shown that the smell of cinnamon is very effective in boosting cognitive function. In a study, participants reported better scores on tasks that involved virtual recognition memory, working memory and visual-motor response speed after they smelled cinnamon or chewed cinnamon-flavored gum.
Diabetes: Cinnamon helps lower blood sugar levels, boost insulin sensitivity and slow down the emptying of the stomach to reduce sharp blood sugar rises after a meal. It may help improve lipid levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Erectile dysfunction: Cinnamon extracts may promote reproductive health and stimulate the production of sperm and testosterone thereby improving sexual functioning.
Infertility: To strengthen the uterus and help you conceive, take a pinch of cinnamon powder with half teaspoon of honey in warm water. You can also apply this to the gums frequently throughout the day.
Spots: Mix 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder with 2-3 tablespoons of pure honey and turn into a paste. Apply this on the face and leave for an hour or overnight. Wash off with warm water afterwards and continue the treatment for 14 days or till desired result is achieved. You can also add some cinnamon to your black soap to reduce sun spots and fine lines.
Hair regrowth: Cinnamon helps encourage healthy hair growth by causing a tingling sensation, which is thought to draw more blood to the scalp for stimulation. Add 2 tsp of cinnamon and 2 tbsp of honey to Shea butter and mix. Once combined properly, work this mixture onto your scalp. Leave on for about 15 minutes and then wash out with a mild shampoo. This can also treat other hair issues like dandruff, itchy scalp and hair thinning.
Anti aging: Consuming cinnamon regularly can help against the ravages of time. If you are looking for a friendly tea, use this mix: 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder and 2 cups of freshly boiled water. Take a 1/4 cup 4X a day. This helps to keep your skin refreshed and wards off the physical signs of aging.
Enjoy!