The Healing Powers of Cinnamon

The smell of apple pie, the delicious taste of breakfast pastries and the warm feelings they invoke make cinnamon a well-known spice to most people. The warm, inviting flavor of cinnamon has been used worldwide by a multitude of cultures for its wonderful seasoning powers as well as for its medicinal properties for hundreds, maybe even thousands, of years.

Cinnamon comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree found mostly in China and Ceylon. It can be found in several forms including the stick, which can be grated or used to stir or season liquids. In ground form, it is the most common spice used for seasoning and baking. There are even cinnamon teas and liquid cinnamon flavorings available for making candies. But often forgotten is the fact that the health benefits of cinnamon are numerous, and many experts recommend daily use of cinnamon for good health.

One of the most exciting benefits of cinnamon is its help in controlling and preventing type 2 diabetes. The health journal, Diabetes Care, published the results of a study that showed that half a teaspoon of cinnamon taken daily reduces significantly the blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It also positively affected the triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol levels among the study participants.

Cinnamon also aids health in the following ways:

• Improves digestion
• Tightens and tones tissues
• Alleviates nasal congestion
• Soothes and relieves stiff muscles and joint pain
• Relieves menstrual discomfort
• Provides blood-thinners for better circulation
• Offers anti-inflammatory elements to aid in relieving arthritis
• Maintains urinary tract health
• Aids in healthy teeth and gums
• Has strong anti-microbial agents that are capable of destroying E. Coli and other bacteria

It's hard to imagine that a simple spice which so enhances the taste of many foods and warms the hearts and minds of all who enjoy its aroma could have so many other great healthful qualities.