Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the bark of the Cinnamomum tree.
[the_ad id=”6147″]There are two types of cinnamon, Cassia cinnamon is the one that is commonly used and Ceylon cinnamon, which is also known as pure cinnamon.
Cinnamon has been extensively used in the preparation of food, since ancient times. People from ancient civilizations valued this spice as a precious commodity, and instinctively used it for the medicinal properties it offered. It was used to treat throat infections, cough, indigestion and to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. Today, research testifies the fact that not only does cinnamon add flavor and aroma to meals or desserts, it is also highly beneficial for your health.
From treating minor problems like indigestion to aiding in the fight against conditions of the heart, cinnamon is here to help! Here is a list of the health benefits that cinnamon provides:
1. Helps fight cold and cough:
Cinnamon contains antibiotic and anti-viral properties. Thus, this immunity-boosting spice can actually help you fight against the common cold as well as cough and sore throats. You can garnish your chicken soup or sweet corn soup with a pinch of cinnamon, if you are feeling under the weather. Adding cinnamon to your meal regularly can help to enhance your immunity against cold and cough.
2. Contains antioxidants that build and better immunity
Oxidative properties and oxidants can cause your body to age quickly, thus making it vulnerable to various health risks. The oxidative stress makes you prone to develop conditions like muscle spasms and arthritis that are usually brought on by old age. The antioxidants that cinnamon contains can help to delay the process of aging. Thus, it reduces the risk of various conditions like high blood pressure, brain disorders or heart problems. Cinnamon contains powerful anti-oxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which are so strong that it can also be used as a natural food preservative.
3. Protects against infections:
Cinnamon has been used in the treatment of various infections because of its medicinal properties. It is especially effective in bringing relief from fungal infections like yeast infection. High blood sugar levels in the digestive system can contribute to a yeast infection, otherwise known as Candida. Since cinnamon lowers the levels of sugar within the body, it is effective in treating this fungal infection. With immunity-boosting properties as well as anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, cinnamon can help to protect you against infections. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon over your oatmeal for breakfast or incorporate it into your diet in other ways so that you can avail of its protective benefits.
4. Natural therapy for neuro degenerative disorders:
The health benefits of cinnamon are boundless. Research conducted showed that it could even help to reduce the risk of certain neuro degenerative disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. The medicinal properties of cinnamon have been useful in improving brain functioning and correcting memory problems. The anti-oxidants present in cinnamon help to slow the aging process and reduce the effects that neurodegenerative disorders have on the brain. In this way, cinnamon provides a natural therapeutic remedy for conditions such as Multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s.
5.Improves skin conditions:
The essential oil of cinnamon has anti-bacterial properties that can improve certain skin conditions. It can help to avoid an allergic reaction with its anti-histamine properties. These essential oils are soothing to the skin and provide relief when you have rashes, irritation or hives. You can apply this essential oil on the area of the skin affected by the rashes. Cinnamon bark can also be consumed along with honey to alleviate breakouts such as acne and skin allergies.
6. Prevents inflammation:
Cinnamon, in the form of powder as well as its extracts of essential oils, has anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-inflammatory properties are extremely useful in remedying dental problems such as gingivitis and mouth ulcers. Cinnamon extracts used in mouthwashes help you fight against developing cavities, bleeding gums and even eliminates the problem of bad breath. The anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon help to repair tissue-damage in the body. In this way, it is highly effective in treating various infections and diseases.
7. Lowers blood sugar levels:
Studies show that cinnamon is an effective remedy for various digestive problems such as indigestion, diarrhea, vomiting and even loss of appetite. One of the most amazing benefits of cinnamon is that it lowers the blood sugar levels during digestion. Diabetes can be caused by mal-absorption of glucose in the blood as well as high blood sugar levels. Cinnamon aids in the process of absorption of glucose in the blood, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Thus, cinnamon is useful in reducing the risks of diabetes. Patients who suffer from Type 2 diabetes should include cinnamon extracts in their diet to lower blood sugar levels. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to your yoghurt or sprinkle it over your savory meal, regularly.
8. Decreases the risk of heart conditions:
The anti-oxidant properties of cinnamon help to decrease the risk of heart conditions like stroke, hypertension and even heart failure. Although a dietary intake of cinnamon might not cure heart failure, it can certainly prevent or even reduce the risk of you developing a heart condition. Research has proven that it lowers the fat content in the blood, which can counter hypertension and high cholesterol. While preparing your dishes of cauliflower, potatoes or corn, you can add cinnamon as a garnishing element. This inclusion of cinnamon in. your diet can help to reduce the risk of heart conditions.
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