The 6 Benefits Of Cinnamon

For centuries, cinnamon has been prized in the kitchen for its enchanting aroma and warm flavor, and widely used for its many health benefits. Cinnamon is a spice derived from the inner bark of certain trees in the Lauraceae family, specifically trees in the genus Cinnamomum.

Ceylon cinnamon is best known for its delicate aroma and sweet, slightly lemony flavor.

Most varieties of cinnamon offer a number of beneficial properties for the body and mind, and we’re going to highlight the many benefits that consuming cinnamon can bring, as it proves to be much more than just a kitchen spice…

The History of Cinnamon: an Ancient Spice

The history of cinnamon dates back thousands of years. Its earliest traces can be found in ancient Egypt, where it was used to embalm the pharaohs, then by the Romans, who appreciated it for its exotic aromas and medicinal properties. It reached its peak during the Age of Discovery, when Europeans sailed to the Orient in search of its precious spices.

Cinnamon, and more specifically Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), is native to Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon). This variety is rarer, but highly prized for its more aromatic and subtle flavor.

The second variety on the market is Cassia cinnamon, also known as « Chinese cinnamon ». This variety is mainly produced in China, Indonesia and Vietnam. It is characterized by a stronger and spicier taste, with warm and sweet notes.

Cinnamon comes in the form of thin, coiled strips, or « sticks, » made from the peeled inner bark that is dried and rolled into delicate layers. This is the format we’ve chosen to present our Ceylon cinnamon, as it preserves its flavor longer. You can grind these sticks into a powder just before use to get the most out of its flavor.

The Health Benefits of Cinnamon:

Cinnamon has been known for centuries for its many health benefits. The active compounds it contains give it unique medicinal properties. Here are some of the most well-known health benefits of cinnamon:

1. BLOOD SUGAR REGULATION:

Scientific studies have shown that cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels by:

By improving insulin sensitivity, which can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of hyperglycemia.

By reducing insulin resistance, a common problem in people with type 2 diabetes.

Certain compounds in cinnamon inhibit the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. By slowing down this carbohydrate digestion process, cinnamon may contribute to a slower release of glucose into the blood after meals.

2. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES:

Due to its antioxidant activity, which is attributed to its high polyphenol content, cinnamon can help neutralize free radicals, which are molecules involved in the inflammatory process. By reducing oxidative damage, cinnamon can help alleviate the inflammation associated with these processes, contributing to the prevention of various chronic diseases and the promotion of optimal health.

3. ANTIMICROBIAL EFFECTS:

Compounds found in cinnamon have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help fight harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi. Cinnamon may therefore help reduce infections and strengthen the immune system.

4. HEART HEALTH:

Cinnamon may benefit cardiovascular health by reducing total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (the bad kind) in the blood, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Triglycerides can also increase the risk of heart disease when present in high quantities, and cinnamon may help improve heart health by reducing levels of these fats.

5. NEUROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS:

Cinnamon Has the Ability to Protect Nerve Cells and Promote Brain Health:

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon can help reduce inflammation in the brain, such as the chronic inflammation often associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s  and Parkinson’s. It may protect nerve cells from programmed cell death, or apoptosis, which can lead to nerve cell death.

It may protect nerve cells from programmed cell death, or apoptosis, which can be triggered by various stress factors.

Cinnamon may have beneficial effects on cognitive function, including memory, learning and attention, thanks to its ability to improve blood circulation in the brain and promote communication between nerve cells.

6. DIGESTIVE SUPPORT:

Cinnamon is often used to relieve digestive problems such as bloating, gas and indigestion by providing digestive comfort. It can also help promote intestinal health by acting as an antimicrobial agent, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract, which can help balance intestinal flora and prevent gastrointestinal infections. In addition, cinnamon is a source of dietary fiber, which can also support digestive health by promoting intestinal transit and nourishing good intestinal bacteria.

How Can Cinnamon be Used in the Daily Diet?

Cinnamon is very versatile and can be used in many ways in your daily diet and even in your crusine. Here are just a few ideas:

In hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a warm, spicy flavor. You can even add it to your cappuccino for an extra aromatic touch.

Cinnamon in Traditional and Modern Medicine:

Cinnamon has been used medicinally for thousands of years, and its use continues to attract interest in modern medicine.

In Traditional Medicine:

Cinnamon has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat digestive problems, respiratory disorders, and inflammation.

In Chinese medicine, cinnamon is often prescribed to stimulate circulation, regulate digestion, and strengthen the immune system.

Medieval Arab physicians used cinnamon to treat respiratory problems, digestive disorders, and infections.

In Modern Medicine:

Modern studies have confirmed that cinnamon may play a role in diabetes management, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Modern research has highlighted cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as its contribution to heart health by improving vascular function.

In modern medicine, cinnamon is commonly available in the form of dietary supplements, standardized extracts, and essential oils, in addition to its traditional use as a culinary spice. However, research on cinnamon is still ongoing, and its use for medical purposes should be approached with caution, taking into account individual needs.

Precautions and Contraindications for Cinnamon:

Cinnamon is generally a safe spice, but it is important to keep certain precautions and contraindications in mind when using it:

Allergies:

Some people may be allergic to cinnamon and may experience symptoms such as rashes, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling after consuming cinnamon.

Skin Irritation:

Care should be taken when applying cinnamon directly to the skin, as it can sometimes cause irritation in people who are sensitive or allergic to cinnamon. For this reason, test applying cinnamon essential oil to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs on your body.

Drug Interactions:

Cinnamon may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications.

Pregnancy and lactation:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to use caution with cinnamon as it could be potentially harmful due to its stimulant properties and its potential to induce uterine contractions.

Excessive Amounts:

Excessive consumption of cinnamon may cause adverse effects such as gastrointestinal irritation, palpitations, headaches, and allergic reactions.

In addition, it is important to note that the Cassia variety of cinnamon, which has a higher coumarin content than Ceylon cinnamon, has an increased risk of hepatotoxicity, which can damage the liver in the most severe cases and especially in individuals with pre-existing liver disease. Therefore, it is important to follow the dosage recommendations and not exceed the recommended amounts to avoid such adverse effects.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, cinnamon is a precious spice with a long history of use throughout civilizations. Widely used in traditional medicine, today it is the focus of interest of various modern medical researchers for its multiple health benefits. Its role in regulating blood sugar levels, its anti-inflammatory potential, its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and its positive impact on cardiovascular health make it a valuable ingredient in a balanced diet that promotes good health.

Careful not to overdo it, it’s an excellent choice in the kitchen, warming you up in winter and taking you on a journey in summer!