Health benefits of Cinnamon
I love the smell of cinnamon during the holiday season. It is warm, festive and aromatic!
Cinnamon is made by drying the bark of a tree. There are two types of cinnamon, ‘Ceylon’ and ‘Cassia’. Ceylon is usually made from Cercidiphyllum japonium tree and Cassia from Cinnamomum cassia tree. The common ones you see in supermarkets are Cassia. Ceylon is called ‘true or cinnamon’ and is better to take. Cassia cinnamon doesn’t not have the same anti-oxidant properties as Ceylon. Another difference is the presence of coumarin in Cassia, which could cause liver damage if taken regularly. Ceylon contains none or very little coumarin.
Cinnamon has been used for dessert, coffee and medicinal uses, especially in ancient Egypt for its numerous health benefits:
Heart
It prevents fat accumulation in blood vessels, lowers cholesterol and strengthens heartbeat. It helps raise HDL (good cholesterol) and lower LDL (bad cholesterol).
I have high cholesterol level (genetic and diet), so I drink tea made with cinnamon (approx. 1ts) with honey daily. This is a good way to lower cholesterol naturally.
Anti-inflammatory
Cinnamaldehyde is the compound that gives cinnamon its unique smell and taste. It aides in reducing swelling and preventing blood platelets from clumping together.
Its anti-inflammatory property also eases joint arthritis.
Diabetes
With type 2 diabetes, a daily intake of cinnamon can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood pressure. It imitates the function of insulin and helps regulate blood sugar in the body.
Digestion
Aldehyde in cinnamon promotes digestion and prevents diarrhea. Cinnamon also has a lot of fiber. It strengthens stomach health. It is good to take cinnamon after lunch or dinner.
Cold prevention
Its has the property of warm energy (Yang) which can prevent cold. More effective if you drink it with ginger or honey. Its warm property also helps with cold hands and feet by increasing circulation.
Oregano Oil to fight flu & Sinus Infection
Mouth health
Remember the cinnamon gums? Cinnamaldehyde has anti-bacterial properties. It freshens your breath and prevents cavities.
Its anti-bacterial property also relieves urinary track infection. Take 2 TS + 1ts of honey for this.
Super anti-oxidant
It contains 41 different antioxidants including polyphenols and flavonoids (as much as blueberries). Anti-oxidants fight free radical damages in the body and prevent various diseases.
Keep skin young and make hair grow
As a super antioxidant, cinnamon mixed with honey will keep wrinkles away. Also, if you apply to your hair, it increases circulation in the scalp and facilitates hair growth.
There are some studies in Japan and Australia that show cinnamon also fights cancer.
* Spiritual properties: Burn it as incense, carry or eat it for raise spiritual vibration, protection, money or sexual desire.
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