THE SUPERPOWERS OF CINNAMON

From curries to pancakes, a lot of dishes taste better with cinnamon. It’s healthy as well and has some other handy uses…

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The magical smell of cinnamon comes from its oils, which contain a lot of a cinnamaldehyde. This compound, scientists have found, is responsible for most of cinnamon’s health benefits.

There are two main types of cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon is most common because it’s generally cheaper. Many people prefer the original Ceylon (or “true”) cinnamon. To make sure that’s what you get, check the ingredients on the packaging.

WHAT IT CAN DO
Cinnamon of any variety helps with an amazing range of health issues. The only thing to remember is that cassia cinnamon contains a lot of coumarin, which may be bad for the liver in high doses. If you have any liver issues, ask your doctor’s advice on how much to have. Two grams per day, about half a teaspoon, should be fine. Don't eat it dry, though, like you see on YouTube challenges. This can cause serious harm, such as allergic reactions.

Related article: How to add some spice to your life

OXIDANTS
Cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid have antioxidant properties that help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. In fact, cinnamon has more antioxidant power than many well-known superfoods and is even potent enough to work as a natural food preservative.

INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is one of your body’s weapons against infection. But if it becomes chronic, it can contribute to serious illnesses. Cinnamon blocks inflammatory molecules and also helps blood flow through the body, putting less strain on the heart.

CHOLESTEROL
Some studies show that cinnamon may help lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol levels. One compound, cinnamate, may be able to decrease the activity of an enzyme that makes cholesterol, reducing fatty acids in the blood.



INSULIN
Cinnamon seems to improve how the brain responds to insulin, one of the key hormones that regulate metabolism and energy use. Many people are resistant to the effects of insulin, which is a feature of conditions such as type-2 diabetes. Cinnamon can help by reducing blood pressure and improving insulin sensitivity.

BLOOD SUGAR
Several studies have confirmed that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugar levels by 10 to 29 per cent. This happens because it works on various digestive enzymes, slowing the breakdown of carbohydrates in your digestive tract.

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INFECTION
Cinnamaldehyde may help fight various kinds of infection. Cinnamon oil can be used for respiratory tract infections caused by fungi. It can also inhibit the growth of listeria, salmonella and some other bacteria.

TOOTH DECAY AND BAD BREATH
The antimicrobial effects of cinnamon may help prevent tooth decay and bad breath. Chew cinnamon gum or make your own mouthwash by boiling five cinnamon sticks in a cup of water for five minutes.

ACNE
Cinnamon can stop bacteria that cause acne. Make a mask with three tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Put the paste on your face and leave for ten minutes.

PLUMP LIPS
Since cinnamon improves blood flow to the surface of the skin, it can plump up your lips. Mix half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon with some petroleum jelly or a few drops of oil (vitamin E, coconut, even olive oil). Apply the paste to your lips and leave for a few minutes before washing it off.

Related article: The amazing health and beauty benefits of tea



HAIR GROWTH
The proof isn’t quite there yet, but cinnamon might help hair grow. It stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles. Mix one tablespoon of ground cinnamon with one tablespoon of honey and about a cup of olive or coconut oil to form a paste. Apply to your scalp and leave on for ten minutes, then use a gentle shampoo to wash it off.

Sources: https://www.healthline.com, https://www.besthealthmag.ca, https://nutritionfacts.org, https://www.arthritis.org, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com.