Most of us know and love Cinnamon as a spice in our kitchen, but there’s a “true cinnamon” out there that should also be in your medicine cabinet!
Usually, the type of cinnamon we use for our food is Cassia, and the one I’m quick to grab as an herbalist is called Ceylon cinnamon. They are the barks of two different trees, Cassia from the aromaticum tree, and Ceylon from the verum tree. They have slight similarities and differences when it comes to their benefits for our body.
In Ayurveda, cinnamomum verum is considered a warming herb that is stimulating to the heart yet cooling to the digestive system. Do you ever feel nice and warm inside when you’re drinking something with cinnamon in it? That’s the energetics you feel- each herb houses a specific heat & moisture index, which plays a large part of how they work within the body.
There are several biblical references to cinnamon- In Exodus 30:23 it is one of the ingredients of the "holy anointing oil"; in Proverbs 7:17 it is, along with myrrh and aloes, a perfume for a bed; in Song of Solomon 4:14 it is a very precious spice.
OVERVIEW
Cinnamon supports carbohydrate breakdown, assists glucose metabolism, curbs the glycemic response to carbohydrates, and maintains healthy pancreatic function.
It helps glucose metabolize in the liver, which reduces insulin resistance in the body.
It soothes the GI tract and contains tannins that support blood flow to the digestive organs.
As an anodyne, cinnamon has been used to alleviate toothaches. You can even use cinnamon powder to brush your teeth for a whiter, brighter smile and fresh breath. The astringent and antimicrobial properties will help support oral health.
It has the ability to relieve arthritic pain/joint pain.
Effective against Candida overgrowth, cinnamon can be used to stop yeast infections that are resistant to western anti-yeast drugs. High blood sugar levels can be a contributing cause of chronic yeast infections, and cinnamon is also known to be helpful in this area as well.
It is high in manganese and a good source of calcium and iron. It also has a high antioxidant content, giving it its wonderful ability to address inflammation.
It is considered astringent, making it useful to arrest bleeding, especially in the case of heavy menstrual flow, and its antispasmodic properties help to reduce menstrual cramps.
It helps with digestive complaints such as nausea and gas, and restores the balance of bacteria in the gut.
Cinnamon plays well with other herbs, warming and directing them. It can also be added for a more desirable flavor to the less tasty combinations of herbs and foods.
HOW IT WORKS WITH THE BODY
Those who are pregnant, have diabetes, or are on blood thinners should avoid in extremely large doses and should consult with their physician prior to regular use.
There have been some recent concerns about potentially harmful properties for the liver found in Cassia cinnamon. If you plan to take this herb in large amounts for an extended period of time then I recommend getting Ceylon cinnamon.
CAUTIONS
Check out our offerings that contain Cinnamon:
*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical/health advice. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before taking any actions based upon such information, it is encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals. Please consult with your physician prior to the use of any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.