Healing Benefits of Cinnamon

Cinnamon is considered a healthy spice due to its various health benefits. Some of the reasons why cinnamon is considered healthy include:

• High in antioxidants: Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants, which help to protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

• Regulates blood sugar levels: Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for those with diabetes or insulin resistance.

• May lower cholesterol levels: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels, which can improve heart health.

• Antimicrobial properties: Cinnamon has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, helping to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.

• May improve brain function: Some research suggests that cinnamon may have neuroprotective effects and could potentially improve cognitive function and memory.

Overall, cinnamon is a flavorful spice that not only adds warmth and depth to dishes but also offers a range of health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The sweetness of life can be healing too. Cinnamon has so many health benefits I don't know where to begin! Cinnamon is one of the most delicious and healthiest spices on the planet. It has been shown to lower blood sugar levels, reduce heart disease risk factors, fight cancer, and help with neurological disorders. It's also stronger than garlic as an antimicrobial, killing off bacteria and viruses. Make sure to get Ceylon cinnamon, or stick to small doses using the Cassia variety.

In a study that compared the antioxidant activity of 26 spices, cinnamon was the clear winner, even outranking "Superfoods" like garlic and oregano. This intense antioxidant property is what gives cinnamon its healing abilities.

Cinnamon Benefits for Skin

• It has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which fight acne and pimples.
• It regulates the oil production on the face, making it a good choice for oily skin.
• Cleanses skin pores and exfoliates dead skin cells
• Improves fine lines with its plumping effects
• It has antiseptic properties to heal wounds
• Smooths out the dry and itchy skin
• Add cinnamon to a face mask or your facial cleanser! Just a pinch will do.

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive loss of the structure or function of brain cells. Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are two of the most common types. Two compounds found in cinnamon appear to inhibit the buildup of a protein called tau in the brain, which is one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. In a study looking at mice with Parkinson's disease, cinnamon helped to protect neurons, normalize neurotransmitter levels, and improve motor function. These effects need to be studied further in humans.

Cinnamon bark contains strong antibacterial properties. Because of such benefits cinnamon can also be used as a green cleaning ingredient and natural disinfectant. Mix cinnamon in a spray bottle with some warm water, and use it to disinfect your kitchen, bathroom, doorknobs, countertops, or patio furniture.

Not all cinnamon is created equal, but you can make informed choices. Ceylon cinnamon is the preferred variety, as the Cassia variety contains significant amounts of a compound called coumarin, which can be harmful in large doses. Rest assured, Ceylon cinnamon is much lower in coumarin than the Cassia variety, as studies have shown. Unfortunately, most cinnamon found in supermarkets is the cheaper Cassia variety. By being aware of these facts, you can confidently choose the right cinnamon for your needs.

Different studies show great variety in dosing when using cinnamon medicinally, from less than 1 gram to levels that would be toxic in humans. The duration of taking the capsules also varies greatly. So, getting muscle tested for what your body says is the best way to take it. We also have Ceylon and Cassia oils in the office for essential oil lovers.

After writing this blog post, I am going to add cinnamon powder to my superfood shake in the morning. Hopefully, you will start adding more of this healing herb to your diet as well! Here are some other convenient ways:

• Sprinkling cinnamon on top of oatmeal or buckwheat grouts in the morning
• Incorporating cinnamon into your dinners and sauces, such as with Indian butter chicken or tomato sauce
• Having a teaspoon of cinnamon or inserting a cinnamon stick into a glass of herbal tea
• Make cinnamon vanilla milk. Simply combine three cups of coconut milk with one tsp of vanilla extract and one tsp of cinnamon. Stir or blend until ingredients have combined. Serve chilled.

Cinnamon Protein Drink Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond milk
• One scoop vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

• In a blender, combine almond milk, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and honey/maple syrup.
• Blend until smooth and well combined.
• Add ice cubes to the blender and blend until desired consistency is reached.
• Pour into a glass and sprinkle with extra cinnamon, if desired.
• Enjoy your delicious cinnamon protein drink!