Health Benefits Of Cinnamon
Known especially for its unique aroma, cinnamon Is a very popular spice in kitchens all over the world. It is used worldwide not only for its aromatic smell but also for its numerous health, beauty and skincare benefits. This mid- brown spice is found in the form of rolls, powder and even as oil.
Medical Benefits
- Reduces Blood Sugar Levels :
Cinnamon can reduce blood sugar levels in two distinctive ways. One of them is by slowing down the rise of sugar levels after a meal and the other is with the bio-active compound that is present in it, which acts as insulin helping those afflicted with type 2 diabetes. - Candida Control :
Candida is a very common yeast infection which can be treated with cinnamon oil due to its antimicrobial properties. - Weight Loss :
This spice helps with weight loss by keeping the stomach full, as it slowdowns the process of digestion after a meal. As the intake of food is low, the calorie burden is also reduced, thus promoting weight loss. - Prevents Cancer :
Powerful antioxidants like polyphenols present in cinnamon work wonders in removing oxidative damage done by free radicals. This makes cinnamon beneficial for preventing cancer.
Helps Those Suffering With Alzheimer’s :
There are five active strains of Alzheimers disease inducing genes and cinnamon delays their aggressiveness. - Cures Toenail Fungus :
Ceylon cinnamon leaf oil is very effective against toenail fungus. Use a few drops of the oil and soak the feet to remove the fungus. - Treats Stomach Flu :
E.Coli, salmonella sp. and campylobacter sp. are responsible for stomach flu and can be treated with cinnamon because of its antibacterial properties. Consuming cinnamon tea every day makes a difference in curing stomach flu. - Heals Irritable Bowel Syndrome :
Cinnamon plays a magical role in case of irritable bowel syndrome by destroying bacteria and healing infection of the gastric tract. It specifically also helps in reducing bloating. - Reduces Arthritis Pain/ Osteoporosis :
Cinnamon tea also helps reduce arthritis pain. And a cinnamon oil massage provides relief from pain. - Alleviates Depression :
The aromatic smell of cinnamon oil is good to treat depression. - Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) :
Cinnamon reduces mood swings and also reduces cramps and symptoms of PMS even though it contains high amounts of manganese.
Hair And Skin Nourishment
For The Hair
Use one teaspoon of cinnamon powder. one tablespoon raw honey and add sufficient amount of olive oil to make a paste. Apply this on the hair and wash off after 15-20 minutes to increase hair growth and nourish the scalp.
For The Skin
The presence of bio-active compounds in cinnamon helps soothe the skin by improving blood circulation. It is also good for treating acne, pimples and skin infections as it has anti-microbial properties. Use it in the following ways:
- As a cleanser – Mix one teaspoon cinnamon powder with chilled milk and two-three drops of lemon juice.
- As a mask – Mix one tablespoon of Bengal gram powder, one teaspoon curd, one teaspoon honey and one teaspoon cinnamon powder and apply on the skin for three-four minutes.
- As a scrub – Mix together one tablespoon coffee powder, one tablespoon sugar, two-three drops of cinnamon oil and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and apply on the face.
Usefulness Of Chinnamon
- Cooking :
Cinnamon leaves contain a compound called cinnamaldehyde that adds flavour to any dish. - Preservative :
Due to its anti bacterial effects, it can be used as a natural food preservative. It also improves the flavour of foods. - Odour Neutralizer :
Pure cinnamon leaf oil is an effective odour neutralizer as it kills bacteria that causes bad odours. Use it as a room freshener, floor and kitchen cleaner and also as a body spray. - Mosquito Repellent:
Cinnamon oil is very effective in killing mosquito larvae.
Cinnamon In Your Diet
- Can be added to tea or coffee.
- Add to hot oatmeal or porridge or any whole grain breakfast cereal.
- Sprinkle on yogurt, chilled milk, fresh fruits and nuts.
- Add to vegetable or fruit smoothies.
- A pinch of cinnamon can be added to soups.
- Use as a seasoning for steamed vegetables.
- Add to desserts to enhance their flavour.
- Cinnamon can also be used as a mouth freshener.