Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices in the world which is obtained by grinding the brown bark of the cinnamon tree. The cinnamon benefits are very important for human health. The cinnamon extract has many favorable effects on human health: can lower blood sugar levels, prevents blood clotting, has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties and enhances the brain function.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), originated in tropical Asia, and was particularly widely used in Sri Lanka and India. Now, due to the cinnamon benefits, the shrub is grown in almost every tropical region of the world. The spice, owing to its vast medicinal uses, has found a prominent position in traditional medicines, especially in Ayurveda, which is the traditional Indian medicinal system.
Traditionally, cinnamon benefits are know in many cultures for treating a variety of health disorders including diarrhea, arthritis, menstrual cramps, heavy menstruation, yeast infections, colds, flu, and digestive problems.
The healing capabilities of cinnamon come from the essential oils found in its bark: cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, cinnamyl alcohol, etc.
Cinnamon Benefits and Uses
Cinnamon is helpful for people who have type 2 diabetes. Studies, that were made for revealing the cinnamon benefits, show that the ingredients included in the cinnamon are stimulating the insulin receptors and inhibit an enzyme that inactivates insulin. It also lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and prevents from diabetic complications and cardiovascular disease.
Besides the unique essential oils, cinnamon contains traces of minerals such as manganese and also it is a very good source of fiber, iron and calcium. These components reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis and regulate digestion in cases of diarrhea or constipation.
1. Treats Neurodegenerative Diseases
Cinnamon has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that reduce constant inflammation of the internal tissues of the brain, thereby protecting it from numerous neurological disorders.
Cinnamon’s powerful and natural ingredient also may curb or delay the onset of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors and meningitis.
2. Controls Blood Sugar
Cinnamon has significant benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. It helps their body respond to insulin, thus normalizing blood sugar levels. Certain compounds in cinnamon stimulate insulin receptors and inhibit an enzyme that inactivates them, improving the cells’ ability to use glucose.
Regularly consuming less than one-half teaspoon per day reduces blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It’s easy to incorporate into your daily diet. Simply sprinkle it on your morning oatmeal or cereal, or add a small pinch to your evening tea or coffee.
3. Prevents IBS and Indigestion
Cinnamon is rich in an antioxidant known as catechins. This is a superb aide in digestion and prevents Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), bloating, constipation, gas, etc. A cup of cinnamon tea works great to relieve discomfort, especially if you eat rich foods.
4. Boosts Brain Function
Cinnamon has been shown to greatly improve mental alertness. Just smelling the wonderful odor of this sweet spice boosts brain activity! The fragrance can enhance cognitive processing and greatly improve brain functioning related to attention, virtual recognition memory, working memory, and visual-motor speed while working on a computer-based program.
People who suffer from exam anxiety or nervousness can drink cinnamon tea for its soothing properties that actually calm the mind.
5. Protects Against Heart Disease
Due to its various anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon is very effective in safeguarding the heart and surrounding arteries from damage and infection. The many fatty foods that people snack on nowadays contain cholesterol and unhealthy fats that are known to clogarteries.
The plaque and toxins that eventually build up can lead to cardiovascular disease and various other threats to the heart. Cinnamon helps fight the ‘bad’ cholesterol, significantly lowering total cholesterol levels. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help heal inflammation in internal tissues and reduce the risk of heart attacks and disease.
6. Improves Colon Functioning
Cinnamon is an excellent source of fiber, calcium and the trace mineral manganese. The combination of calcium and fiber can improve the functionality of the colon. Both calcium and fiber bind to bile salts and help remove them from the body. By removing bile, fiber helps prevent damage that certain bile salts can cause to colon cells, thereby reducing the risk of colon cancer.
The dietary fiber also is very useful in relieving symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome including diarrhea and constipation.
7. Prevents Cancer
Studies have shown that cinnamon may reduce the proliferation of cancer cells, holding promise for cancer prevention and sufferers of the disease.
According to research done at the University of Texas, cinnamon may minimize the increase in cancerous cells in the body and, when included regularly in the diet, it can help prevent cancer. Cinnamon also helps reduce the growth rate of leukemia and lymphoma cancerous cells.
8. Prevents Chronic Inflammation
Cinnamon is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation has been connected to a large number of dangerous illnesses and diseases such as Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis, obesity, infertility, etc. Cinnamon tea is a delicious way to fight inflammation and protect your body from its effects that can cause these deadly health problems.
9. Cures Acne, Pimples, And Blemishes
Cinnamon helps get rid of acne and pimples on the face and body. This is done by drying the skin and bringing blood and oxygen to the outer skin surface. A simple to make recipe includes mixing three tablespoons of honey with one tablespoon of cinnamon. Apply the paste on the affected areas and leave it overnight. Alternatively, leave it on for 20 minutes before washing with water. Repeat next week.
10. Improves Blood Circulation
Cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin that has blood thinning properties. This helps improve blood circulation throughout the body.
However, it is important to bear in mind that too much coumarin may lead to liver damage and malfunctioning, so it is best to consume cinnamon in small amounts.
11. Stimulates Hair Growth
Your hair will love the combination of honey and cinnamon. Use the hair mask once every week for best results. Combine a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a teaspoon of honey, a tablespoon of olive oil and an egg. Apply the mask to the hair and leave it on for 20 minutes before washing it off thoroughly with a mild shampoo.
Via: OrganicFacts | StyleCraze
