Cinnamon is a powerful aromatic spice that has been used medicinally around the world for thousands of years and cherished for its health benefits.
Derived from the inner bark of a small evergreen tree, the bark is peeled and laid in the sun to dry, where it curls up into rolls known as cinnamon sticks. Cinnamon is also available in powdered form.
Known for its distinct and pleasant taste, it’s commonly used in cooking and baking.
Below are some health benefits of cinnamon:
1. Anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties
Cinnamon is thought to have many medicinal and soothing properties and is used frequently in Chinese herbal medicine. The distinctive smell and flavour of cinnamon come from the oils contained in the cinnamon bark, called cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamaldehyde has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
2. Helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes
Cinnamon is known to have an anti-diabetic effect. It helps lower blood sugar levels and can also improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin, which is the vital hormone needed for keeping blood sugar levels balanced.
3. Protects against cancer
Cinnamon can help protect against DNA damage, cell mutation, and cancerous tumor growth. Studies have revealed that the health benefits of cinnamon come from a compound called cinnamaldehyde, including its possible ability to inhibit cancer tumor growth and protect DNA from damage, while also encouraging cancerous cells to self-destruct.
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4. Prevents tooth decay and bad breath
In studies, the extracts found in cinnamon were shown to be protective against bacteria living in the oral microflora that could cause bad breath, tooth decay, cavities, or mouth infections. The essential oil from cinnamon is more potent than other tested plant extracts and can be used to naturally combat bacteria in the mouth, acting like a natural antibacterial mouthwash.
5. Cures vaginal infections
Certain studies have concluded that cinnamon’s powerful anti-fungal properties may be effective in stopping or curing Candida overgrowth in the digestive tract. Cinnamon has been shown to lower amounts of dangerous Candida albicans, which is the yeast that causes Candida overgrowth that can cause multiple digestive and autoimmune symptoms.
6. Promotes skin health
Cinnamon has antibiotic and antimicrobial effects that protect the skin from irritations, rashes, allergic reactions, and acne. Applying cinnamon essential oil directly to the skin can be helpful in reducing inflammation, swelling, pain, and redness.
7. Aids digestion
Cinnamon has prebiotic properties that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which may help improve gut health. It also helps with digestion by treating symptoms of digestive and gastrointestinal issues. To alleviate digestive symptoms, cinnamon should be prepared as a hot tea with a dash of honey.
8. Protects and fights against HIV
A 2016 study shows that cinnamon contains some antiviral properties that may help fight HIV-1 and HIV-2 by preventing the virus from entering cells, thereby contributing to the management of HIV.
A cinnamon-derived substance could block viral entry, which the study notes is one of the most promising approaches to preventing HIV’s development into AIDS.
9. May help treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Adding cinnamon to your diet may be effective in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Research shows that there is a link between PCOS, a common cause of fertility issues in women, and insulin, the hormone that helps the body use sugar. The use of insulin-sensitizing drugs has, however, been shown to improve both the reproductive and the metabolic aspects of PCOS.
10. Helps lower blood pressure
Cinnamon has been found to help in dealing with hypertension and other heart diseases, such as stroke.
