Cinnamon

More than just a spice?

Most people know cinnamon as the spice normally mixed with sugar and used on breads and pastries. Not many of those people know of the HUGE health roles that cinnamon plays in our diets.

The 1997 Commission E on Phytotherapy and Herbal Substances of the German Federal Institute for Drugs recommends Cinnamon ‘For loss of appetite, mild dyspeptic complaints, spastic conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, bloating and flatulence.’

• Internally, it is very useful for treating diarrhea, colic, stomach cramps, flatulence, and to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
• It restores tone to the uterine muscular structure and induces tonic contraction. During labor, it promotes the normal labor pains and increases uterine contraction, as well as prevents post-partum hemorrhage.
• Studies show that 1/2 teaspoon per day can lower LDL “bad” cholesterol and actually raises HDL “good” cholesterol.
• It has a regulatory effect on blood sugar which makes it beneficial for diabetics, and it can reduce the risk for diabetes.
• It inhibits medication resistant yeast infections.
• It stops the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.
• It has and anti-clotting effect on blood.
• 1/2 teaspoon with 1 tablespoon of honey per day can decrease arthritis pain after just one week.
• It inhibits growth of bacteria (like E. coli) and prevents food from spoiling (natural food preservative).
• Studies show that smelling it boosts cognitive function and memory.
• It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Cinnamon can also be mixed with honey for a WIDE variety of natural remedies from insect bites to hair loss and even infertility. Add this wonderful spice to cookies, oatmeal, toast, etc. It is also good in teas and hot cocoa!