10 Health Benefits Of Cinnamon

Used both externally and internally, cinnamon can help prevent and improve numerous health problems. It can also be very useful for aesthetic problems.

It is used for many desserts and teas, either powdered or in stick form. However, cinnamon is not only an important ingredient in gastronomy, it also has many health benefits. Do you want to learn about the great benefits of cinnamon ? Then read on here.

Cinnamon: small but nice

When you think of cinnamon, you automatically imagine a delicious pastry or a comforting coffee. However, this brown spice not only sweetens our lives, it also has many medicinal properties.

Although cinnamon is mainly used in winter, it can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

There are different types of cinnamon, among which cassia and Ceylon should be emphasized.

It is advisable to use Ceylon cinnamon, which is much healthier,  because the cheaper cassia cinnamon, which mainly comes from China, contains a lot of coumarin, a flavoring substance that in large quantities could lead to liver damage.

The two types of cinnamon can be distinguished by their appearance and smell, as one smells stronger and more penetrating than the other.

Benefits of cinnamon

This rich, valuable kitchen spice is also popular in naturopathy.

Cinnamon is of Asian origin (from Sri Lanka), but is also grown in other countries with hot and humid climates such as India, Brazil, China, Madagascar or the Seychelles.

The cinnamon as we know it comes from the bark of the corresponding tree and is obtained by peeling and rubbing the branches.

Then the pods are rolled up and dried.

Thanks to its large content of minerals, vitamins B and C, cinnamon has several positive properties:

1. Reduces a bloated stomach:

• If you have slow digestion and feel like your stomach is about to explode, it is best to have cinnamon tea after meals. Cinnamon helps prevent upset stomachs and soothes inflammation. To do this, you only need to add a small amount of the spice to tea and desserts.
• Cinnamon also eliminates bile salts that make the colon sick, balances the bowel rhythm, and inhibits nausea and vomiting (ideal for women in the early stages of pregnancy).
• But that’s not all: cinnamon stimulates the appetite and prevents heartburn.

2. Cinnamon balances glucose levels

People who suffer from type 2 diabetes will find a great ally in cinnamon.

• By consuming the spice before and after eating, you can specifically reduce the blood sugar level.
• The main components of cinnamon stimulate the insulin receptors and inhibit the enzyme that cripples them.

3. Treat athlete’s foot with cinnamon

People who suffer from athlete’s foot can also benefit from the benefits of cinnamon.

The essential oil of the spice can be purchased in organic stores, for example.

• Spread on the affected, previously washed and dried foot.
• Leave on overnight.
• To avoid stains, it is advisable to wear socks or wrap your foot in a clean cloth.

Cinnamon can also be used as a natural foot deodorant.

4. Cinnamon reduces breathing problems

Cinnamon tea is recommended for colds or flu, as it has a comforting effect and at the same time strengthens our immune system.

• A add a little cinnamon ginger tea, reduces fever and cough and strengthens the general well-being.
• This spice has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help you in such situations.

5. Benefits of cinnamon in losing weight

If you want to lose weight, don’t hesitate to add cinnamon to your shakes, herbal teas, and juices.

Since it satisfies your hunger and gives drinks a sweet note, you avoid the impulse to resort to chocolate and similar products.

6. Benefits of cinnamon against Alzheimer’s

If your family has any known cases of neurodegenerative diseases, we recommend that you consume cinnamon every day.

According to a 2013 study, epicatechin and cinnamaldehyde, two active ingredients in cinnamon, are good for brain health and prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s.

7. Cinnamon makes you younger

Cinnamon not only improves memory, but also improves skin and organ functions.

Consuming half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day (e.g. in tea) protects cells and reduces signs of aging due to the natural antioxidant properties of cinnamon.

These properties also protect the skin from external influences such as pollution or UV rays.

8. Cinnamon relaxes the muscles

Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore often used for relaxing massages. Its special aroma, which is so characteristic, is used to relax tired and sore muscles.

Many athletes are massaged with cinnamon oil after training sessions and competitions.

With a full bath, you too can feel the beneficial effects of cinnamon.

• All you need to do is fill the tub with hot water and add a tablespoon of cinnamon.
• Lie in the tub for 15 minutes (or until the water cools down) and listen to music or read a book.

9. Benefits of cinnamon for menstrual pain

Women who experience severe menstrual pain can remedy this by drinking a cup of hot milk with cinnamon before bed.

• Cinnamon relieves abdominal pain and relaxes muscles.

• It can also be added to tea and helps you sleep for 8 hours at a time.

10. Improves bone health

People over the age of 60 are more prone to fractures or cracks in their bones. To avoid these typical problems, it is recommended to mix cinnamon into the tea daily.

Massages with cinnamon oil can also help strengthen the joints.

Cinnamon can be used in many other cases:

• Fight acne and remove impurities from the skin.
• Reduce cholesterol and prevent thrombus formation.
• Cinnamon is also notable for its anti-clotting properties.