We enjoy it in teas and desserts, as cinnamon sticks and powdered. But in addition to being a standard ingredient in the kitchen, there are also some incredible health benefits of cinnamon.
Would you like to learn how? Read on!
Small but Powerful Spice
When you think of cinnamon, your mind probably automatically pictures a tasty treat or comforting fall drink. But besides sweetening our lives, this pretty brown spice also has many different medicinal abilities. It’s often used in the fall, but you can enjoy it any time of the year.
There are two types of cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon.
The first balances blood sugar levels in people with diabetes and the second contains a remarkable amount of antioxidants. You can tell them apart by their fragrance: one is stronger than the other.
The superpower health benefits of cinnamon
This delicious spice is also a superstar in natural medicine.
Originally from Asia (Sri Lanka), it is also grown in other hot, humid parts of the world like India, China, Madagascar, and the Seychelles Islands.
Cinnamon as we know it comes from peeling and rubbing the bark of the cinnamon tree. Then, the pieces are rolled up and dried.
Besides being full of minerals and vitamins B and C, here are the other amazing health benefits of cinnamon:
1. Reduces swelling in your abdomen
If you have digestion troubles and sometimes feel like your stomach is about to explode, we recommend having cinnamon tea after meals. It will help prevent stomach problems and reduce inflammation.
Just add a little bit to your teas and desserts.
2. Balances glucose levels
People with type 2 diabetes should become best friends with cinnamon.
Having it on any empty stomach or after meals lowers your blood sugar levels. It also stimulates insulin receptors and inhibits the enzyme that deactivates them.
3. Treats athlete’s foot
People with athlete’s foot can benefit from the goodness of cinnamon.
You can find the essential oil in herbalist and natural food stores.
- Sprinkle your foot after washing and drying well.
- Let absorb overnight.
- To keep it from staining your bed linens, wear socks or cover your feet with a clean cloth.
It will also act as a natural deodorant for your feet.
4. Helps with respiratory problems
When you have a cold or the flu, having a nice cup of tea can be comforting while also strengthening your immune system.
If you add a little cinnamon to a cup of ginger tea, you’ll help lower your fever and improve your cough. You’ll also feel better. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that are a big help in situations like these.
5. Helps you lose weight
If you’re on a weight-loss diet, add cinnamon to your smoothies, teas, and juices.
Since it helps control your appetite and adds a sweet touch, you’ll crave chocolate and other sweets less.
6. Prevents Alzheimer’s disease
If you have a family history of neurodegenerative diseases, we recommend consuming cinnamon every day.
According to a study done in 2013, the epicatechin and cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon support good cerebral health and prevent or slow down the appearance of Alzheimer’s disease.
7. Keeps you young
Cinnamon isn’t just good for your brain. It is also great for your skin and other internal organs.
Having a teaspoon of cinnamon, a day (in tea, for example) protects your cells and reduces the signs of aging due to all of the antioxidants in it. It also protects your skin from harmful external agents including pollution and UV rays.
8. Relaxes your muscles
Cinnamon is anti-inflammatory and thus is often used in tension-releasing massages. It helps relax tired, sore muscles.
Many athletes get massages with cinnamon oil after training sessions and competitions.
The goodness of cinnamon can also be enjoyed in a bath.
- It’s as easy as filling the tub with hot water and adding a tablespoon of cinnamon.
- Soak for 15 minutes (or until the water cools) while listening to music or reading a book.
9. Relieves menstrual cramps
Women who get bad cramps during their period can find relief in a cup of hot water with cinnamon before bed.
- It helps with abdominal pain and relaxes your muscles.
- It can also be taken with tea and is a great way to help you get your 8 hours of sleep.
10. Improves your bone health
People over 60 are more susceptible to bone fractures and breaks. To prevent this common problem, we recommend having cinnamon with tea daily.
You can also give yourself massages with cinnamon essential oil to strengthen your joints.
Beside the mentioned health benefits of cinnamon, it has many other benefits and uses, such as:
- Fighting acne and cleansing your skin of contaminants.
- Lowering your cholesterol and preventing coronary thrombosis.
- It also stands out as an anticoagulant.
What are you waiting for? Add cinnamon to your diet today!
