Cinnamon is a pleasantly fragrant spice derived from the inner bark of Genus Cinnamomum tree, likely to be found in South East Asia. Cinnamon is predominantly known to sweeten or savor food and certain beverages as a flavor enhancer. In addition to cinnamon being commonly known in the culinary world, cinnamon also holds a wealth of health benefits and has been indicated to treat and cure many common health ailments due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Cinnamon is also known to bring warmth and stimulation and it's aphrodisiac power.
For many generations the Chinese considered cinnamon, the super spice as medicine using it for medicinal and therapeutic purposes to treat and cure common health ailments such as gastrointestinal problems, aiding in calming the stomach, flatulent dyspepsia, dyspepsia with nausea, intestinal colic and digestive atony. Cinnamon is known to relieve nausea and vomiting, aiding with digestion. Diy try adding ½ teaspoon of cinnamon with 1 teaspoon of honey and add to a cup of warm water to aid with gastrointestinal problems.
Cinnamon is also widely used among diabetic patients to help control blood sugar levels in turn allowing the body to metabolize sugar at a better rate in turn allowing diabetics to require less insulin. A recent study conducted by the US Department of agriculture stated "One-eighth of a teaspoon of cinnamon triples insulin efficiency," say James A. Duke, Ph.D., a botanist retired from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and author of The CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Dr. Duke suggest that people with adult-onset diabetes discuss Cinnamon's benefits with their doctor. Diy Taking a ½ to a ¾ teaspoon of ground Cinnamon with each meal may help control blood sugar levels.
In in addition to controlling blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, Cinnamon inhibits the release of arachidonic acid from the blood platelets membranes which can reduce the chances of heart disease and stroke. Cinnamon arachidonic acid increases blood circulation and prevents the blood platelets from thickening the blood which could also prevent the blood from clotting. cinnamon can also be taken as a daily supplement to safely lower cholesterol and triglycerides without affecting the HDL cholesterol level.
Cinnamon is also great to have on hand during cold and flu season. Cinnamon's antimicrobial and antifungal properties are that powerful, they can even combat the common cold in a day or two and in some instances the flu. Cinnamon can also used to suppress and cure the common cough. In addition to cold symptoms, cinnamon is also an excellent remedy for treating cold sores, mouth ulcers and a valuable resource for overall oral health. Cinnamon's antibacterial microbial properties protect the gums and tooth enamel and safeguards against bad breath.
Cinnamon has incredible antioxidant power. In fact cinnamon offers five times as many antioxidants than a half cup of blueberries. Antioxidants protect the body against free radicals which aid in slowing down the aging process and cancer prevention. Cinnamaldehyde has been demonstrated to activate an antioxidant response that may help prevent colon cancer and has shown some effectiveness in treating human melanoma cells in mice. Other studies have isolated compounds in cinnamon that inhibit Alzheimer's disease in mice.
Arthritis sufferers can also benefit from the benefits of cinnamon oil. Diy Cinamon oil can be applied topically directly to problem areas to reduce swelling and inflammatioilon. Cinnamon oil releases warming properties can also offer instant relief, soothing tired, aching muscles and joints.
Cinnamon spice is held in the highest regard as a powerful aphrodisiac dated back to ancient texts, in fact it was a fragrance referred to as"perfume of the lovers bed" by the Greek Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Cinnamon's release of warming properties produce heat and boost your libido. Cinnamon can also alleviate PMS and infertility, cinnamonaldehyde can help balance hormones. The sweet scent of cinnamon and sensual aromatic scent it is also commonly used for aromatherapy.
Cinnamon is a common ingredient in home fragrance products and can be used as an odor neutralizer. cinnamon oil can also be used as a disinfectant to kill tough germs as a surface cleaner when diluted with water and vinegar. Diy Fill a spray bottle 1/4 full with white vinegar, the rest of the way with warm water and 4-6 drops of cinnamon oil. Also, as an insect repellent, cinnamon fragrant antibacterial properties will keep you safe from mosquitoes and clothing free from moths.
Cinnamon is also great for the hair, nails and skin when you diy. Cinnamon oil is a common ingredient in most men's hair loss products. Cinnamon has been proven to improve circulation and increase blood flow, promoting hair growth amongst men and women suffering from hair loss. Alternately, it can be applied directly to the scalp prevent dandruff, flaking or infection.
Cinnamon is also a great companion to maintaining a young youthful complexion. Adding cinnamon to your facial regime has been shown plump the skin and diminish fine lines. Diy Use a mixture of 3 drops essential oil of cinnamon and 2 tbsp olive oil or petroleum jelly. Apply this mixture to fine lines on the skin, taking care to avoid the eyes. The skin soon plumps out and fine lines become less visible. This can even be done to plump up lips and can be used as an alternate to lip gloss.
We will continue to update this list. Do check back. In closing who would've thought such a sweet, fragrant spice could be so potent and understated?