Cinnamon (also known as canella) is a common spice which comes from the branches of a wild tree that belong to the genus “Cinnamomum” that is native to the Southeast Asia, South America, and the Caribbean.
There are 2 basic types of cinnamon:
- Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum Verum), usually considered being “true cinnamon”,
- Cassia cinnamon or Chinese cinnamon (Cinnamomum aromaticum) that comes from southern China, and is usually cheeper than Ceylon cinnamon.
Because of the fact that Ceylon cinnamon is really expensive, many foods in Western Europe and the USA, including bread, sticky buns, and some other products use the cheaper dried Cassia bark (Cassia cinnamon). These days’ cinnamon is regarded as the 2nd most popular spice, right after black pepper, in Europe and the United States.
Since 2000 BC, cinnamon has been widely consumed in Ancient Egypt and it was highly prized (practically considered to be a panacea). Doctors used this spice to treat many conditions such as sore throats, arthritis, and coughing in medieval times.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Modern studies indicate that cinnamon might have beneficial health properties 1 . Considering this, it’s important to recognize that more evidence and research is required before we could say conclusively that this spice has these health benefits.
- Diabetes
According to a study published in Diabetics Care, this spice can help improve lipids and glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes 2 .
The research authors established that consuming about 6 grams of cinnamon a day “reduces LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and serum glucose in individuals with type 2 diabetes.” and that “the addition of cinnamon in the diet of patients with type 2 diabetes will decrease risk factors linked with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.”
Additionally, a cinnamon extract can decrease blood sugar levels, experts reported in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation 3 .
- Multiple Sclerosis
According to a neurological researcher at Rush University Medical Center, cinnamon can help stop the destructive process of multiple sclerosis 4 . This spice can help you to get rid of some unpleasant and expensive drugs and use natural products.
- Treating Chronic Wounds
Experts have found a way to package antimicrobial compounds from cinnamon and peppermint in very tiny capsules which can both actively promote healing and kill biofilms, according to a study published in the journal ACS Nano 5 .
Facts About Cinnamon
- The cinnamon tree usually grows more than 6 feet.
- The cinnamon sticks are known under the name quills.
- Cinnamon is rich in calcium and fiber that helps improve colon health.
- It is a powerful antioxidant which helps in controlling blood sugar.
- This spice also contains significant minerals such as magnesium and iron.
- It compliments both salty and sweet dishes (and beverages).
- Cinnamon is typically used in traditional medicine.
- It also has various alternative benefits such as for in the house and in beauty products.
- HIV
A research of Indian medicinal plants revealed that canella can possibly be effective against HIV. “The best extracts against HIV are respectively Cardiospermum helicacabum (fruit + shoot) and Cinnamomum cassia (bark)”, according to the research authors 6 .
- Lower the negative effect of high-fat meals
According to Penn State researchers, a diet that includes cinnamon can help reduce the negative response of the body to eating high-fat meals 7 .
- Fungal Infections
Cinnamaldehyde is a chemical that is found in Cassia cinnamon and can help fight against fungal and bacterial infections, according to the National Institutes of Health.
- Alzheimer’s Disease
Professionals from Tel Aviv University discovered that cinnamon can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. CEppt, an extract found in cinnamon bark, contains potent properties which can inhibit the development of the disease, according to Michael Ovadia, the professor at Tel Aviv University 8 .
Cinnamon Nutrition Facts
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture 9 , 10 grams of ground cinnamon contains:
- 7 Kcal energy
- 12 g fat
- 06 g carbohydrates
- 4 g protein
How much cinnamon should you consume?
Due to the fact that cinnamon is an unverified treatment, there is no any established dose. Many professionals recommend ½-1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of cinnamon powder per day. There are some studies who recommend between 1-6 grams of cinnamon per day. Remember, very high doses could be toxic.
Conclusion:
Cinnamon is one of the tastiest and healthiest spices in the world.It may reduce heart disease risk factors, lower blood sugar levels, and has a plethora of other incredible health benefits.
Just ensure to get Ceylon cinnamon, or stick to minor doses if you are using the Cassia variety.
