Cinnamon - spice for healing

Cinnamon is a very powerful spice which has been known for thousands of years for it medicinal benefits. Cinnamon has a wide range of health benefits such as its antibacterial, anti fungal and anti-diabetic properties. The antioxidant properties help to reduce the body of the free radical damage plus slow the aging process. Cinnamon works by fighting the oxidative stressors within the body which then in turn help with the prevention of chronic disease. In addition, the antioxidants within cinnamon help relieve inflammation that leads to heart disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline and more. Cinnamon can also be used to lower swelling and prevents inflammation which aids in pain management from causes such as sore muscles, menstrual pain, and age-related symptoms of pain, plus it reduces the effects of allergic reactions. Cinnamon could also improve risk factors for certain types of heart disease, like lowering high cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure, thus keeping your heart healthy and strong. Cinnamon helps with the heart by increasing circulation, which can help to regenerate heart tissue especially after experiencing a heart attack, heart disease or stroke. Cinnamon has been shown to help in lowering blood sugar levels thus improving sensitivity to insulin and helping to keep blood sugar levels balanced. The antimicrobial, antibiotic, anti fungal and antiviral properties of cinnamon and its essential oils, allow for immune-boosting. Therefore cinnamon has been used to fight infections and viruses, from common colds, strep throat and pneumonia.

Beware: there are two main types of cinnamon commonly used today. Ceylon cinnamon, which is called true or real cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon (sometimes called Saigon or Chinese cinnamon) which is the more commonly used cinnamon. But both are not equal. Studies are showing Ceylon cinnamon is more beneficial, less harmful than cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon contains LESS of the compound coumarin. Coumarin, which is high in Cassia cinnamon, has been shown to cause damage to the liver, impair cognitive development and even cause cancer. It also has short term effects that many don’t realize are caused by the Cassia cinnamon like nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. However, refraining from the use of cassia cinnamon is recommended due to its unhealthy affects. Ceylon cinnamon, has a lighter, more citrusy taste which used in culinary dishes and has more potent health benefits and thus should be used sparingly for cooking.