Cinnamon Health Benefits
Cinnamon is not just a kitchen staple—it’s a powerful herb with a host of health benefits.
- Antimicrobial Properties:
Cinnamon’s essential oils have strong antimicrobial effects, helping fight off colds, flu, and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. - Warming Spice:
Like ginger, cinnamon is a warming herb that promotes circulation and alleviates chills, fevers, and poor circulation. - Demulcent and Astringent Effects:
When prepared as a cold infusion, cinnamon soothes mucous membranes, making it ideal for mild sore throats and lung infections. Its astringent qualities also make it effective for gum health and mouth ulcers. - Digestive Support:
Cinnamon eases gas, nausea, diarrhea, and gut inflammation. It also curbs dessert cravings, making it a favorite for those managing sweet tooth temptations. - Metabolic Benefits:
Known for improving insulin sensitivity, cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, supporting overall metabolic health.Caution: While cinnamon is generally safe, it should be used in moderation. Therapeutic doses range from 1 to 6 grams daily, with excessive amounts potentially causing tissue irritation. -
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Synergies and Alternatives
Cinnamon works well with other herbs, amplifying its effects in teas, tinctures, and remedies.
- Ginger: A natural partner for circulation and digestion, enhancing its warming effects.
- Yarrow: Combined in tooth powders or rinses, it creates a powerful antimicrobial blend.
- Peppermint: Blends beautifully with cinnamon for respiratory support and refreshing teas.
If you’re looking for alternatives with similar warming or digestive properties, consider ginger or cardamom as complementary options.
Fun and Quirky Facts About Cinnamon
Cinnamon has a fascinating history and some surprising modern-day uses:
- Ancient Value: Over 2,000 years ago, cinnamon was worth more than its weight in gold. Ancient Egyptians even used it in mummification rituals.
- Hindu Oils and Moses’ Anointing: Cinnamon has been infused into oils in Hindu traditions and was a key ingredient in Moses’ holy anointing oil.
- Napoleon’s Obsession: The emperor reportedly favored cinnamon as a daily indulgence.
- Sweet Tooth Remedy: Cinnamon is known to quell cravings for desserts, making it a natural ally for those reducing sugar intake.
- Cinnamon’s “Double Life”: It’s technically the inner bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus. When dried, it curls into the sticks we know and love.
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Cinnamon Scientific Tidbits
- Scientific Names:
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- Cinnamomum cassia (common cinnamon)
- Cinnamomum verum (true or sweet cinnamon)
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- Key Compounds and Their Effects:
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- Cinnamaldehyde: The main compound in cinnamon’s essential oil, responsible for its warming and antimicrobial properties.
- Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect cells.
- Mucilage: In cold infusions, cinnamon releases mucilage that soothes mucous membranes.
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- Coumarin: Found in cassia cinnamon, coumarin has blood-thinning properties, which is why true cinnamon (C. verum) is often preferred for therapeutic use.
Angie’s Products Containing Cinnamon
Morning Envigorating Herbal Teas:
Sweet Sunrise, Morning Focus, 2nd Wind, Morning Focus Xtreme (With Cannabis Flower)
Anti Inflammatory Herbal Teas:
Fire Fighter, Inferno (With Cannabis Flower)
Detox / Cold & Flu Herbal Teas:
Puri*Chai, Sweet Relief
Calming and Sleep Herbal Teas:
Afternoon Delight, Over the Moon (with Cannabis Flower)
For more information about Cinnamon or any other Herbal Medicine question, please don’t hesitate to call us during office hours.
