The taste and aroma of cinnamon is known to every person. What it is made from is also no secret to most people - from the bark of the cinnamon tree.
But not everyone knows that when used correctly it becomes a medicine. And even if they know, they doubt it - what kind of medicine is this that is sprinkled on buns and cookies?
How to determine quality
Still, it can really bring health benefits, but it must be a high-quality product, which is not easy to choose.
Let's figure out how to determine the quality of ground cinnamon. The best variety is produced in Sri Lanka and is called Ceylon cinnamon.
But in the store they can pass it off as “cassia,” which grows in China and Indonesia.
It does not have the full range of healing properties, but sometimes it can even cause harm: There is a hundred times more of a substance dangerous to the liver called “coumarin” in the Chinese “version” than in the Ceylon version.
Therefore, in order not to make a mistake, ask about the country of origin in the store. If this is Sri Lanka, you need to take it.
If Indonesia, Vietnam or China - do not rush to buy. Experts also do not advise taking goods packaged in the USA, Israel and Germany, because these countries do not have well-established supplies from Sri Lanka.
It’s safer to buy cinnamon sticks(and grind them), here the probability of error is reduced: Ceylon is light brown in color, but cassia is heterogeneous in its shades - reddish, brown or gray.
They are even distinguished by their smell: the first one is soft and sweet. The second one is not so rich, at the same time rough, sweet to the point of cloying.
An experiment that can be easily done at home will help bring final clarity: if iodine is dropped onto the “test subject,” the high-quality powder will turn slightly blue, while cassia will turn dark blue.
On the pages of our website you will also find out! Let's tell you all about the healing spice!
What is good for the body
Ground cinnamon has many valuable properties, which should be used, giving preference to this gift of nature rather than chemicals.
In the list below you can clearly see the health benefits of ground cinnamon.
Medicinal properties of ground cinnamon:
- anti-inflammatory, bactericidal;
- antimicrobial;
- it has a positive effect on blood composition (helps avoid the formation of blood clots);
- removes toxins from the body;
- reduces the amount (this occurs due to the substance polyphenol, which takes on the functions of insulin);
- provides an analgesic effect;
- supports liver function and the choleretic system;
- activates brain activity;
- restores strength and performance;
- improves memory;
- helps overcome depression.
Features of the impact on health
The degree of impact on a person varies depending on his individual characteristics, age, belonging to one or another gender. This cannot be ignored, otherwise the benefit that was hoped for will turn into trouble.
Sometimes, without giving up cinnamon completely, it is enough to reduce its portion or frequency of intake. Let's consider the benefits and potential harms of ground cinnamon for people of different ages.
Adult men and women
According to ancient legend, the goddess of love Aphrodite won the hearts of her fans with her beauty and small feminine tricks.
There is some truth in every fairy tale.
Cinnamon was sewn into her belt, behind which the goddess herself descended to earth. The magical aroma did not give the gods and mere mortals a chance to resist the beauty’s charms.
Today it has been scientifically proven that cinnamon is very effective for men, restores their lost strength. With her participation, they solve their intimate problems, get rid of erectile dysfunction if it was caused by stress, nervous strain, or an unhealthy lifestyle.
This natural medicine will protect a man from problems with the heart and blood vessels, return him to normal life after a heart attack, and reduce the risk of its possible recurrence.
Half a teaspoon of powder per day will lower the level of sugar in the blood and will contribute to the loss of excess kilograms. Cinnamon will fight all those troubles that can slowly but surely turn a not-old person into a “ruin.”
Men who use this natural medicine regularly suffer less from urinary tract diseases. If a man is involved in heavy physical work or sports, cinnamon will help him more easily overcome muscle pain.
Of the “feminine” beneficial properties spices, it is worth noting the ability of ground cinnamon to reduce pain during menstruation, increase tone, and get rid of irritability that accompanies the mood of women on “difficult days.”
Pregnant and nursing
But pregnant women should temporarily avoid this powder.
It provokes uterine contractions, which leads to miscarriage or problems with fetal development.
In the postpartum period, as people say, this is a double-edged sword.
On the one hand, cinnamon is needed to help a woman recover, and the uterus will quickly return to its normal size.
On the other hand, a nursing mother needs to be careful in choosing food and drinks so that none of them causes the baby allergic reaction.
Cinnamon can trigger it.
Children
For children who have been allergic to foods, cinnamon is also introduced into the menu very carefully. If no problems arise, add it to food and drink from the age of 4: first a little, and when the child turns 7 years old - in an amount equal to half the daily “adult” portion.
It helps children improve brain function– develop faster, learn lessons easier. It is good for vision and strengthens memory. The child receives good protection against viral infections, which is useful during flu epidemics.
In old age
Elderly people need this natural medicine:
- for the prevention of heart attack;
- against thrombosis;
- to normalize blood pressure;
- as a remedy for arthritis;
- with memory disorder;
- against insomnia.
According to scientific research, cinnamon is a good preventative against a serious disease - Alzheimer's disease. Daily intake of this plant extract has an effective effect on the patient's brain.
We invite you to watch a video about the benefits and harmful properties of ground cinnamon:
Potential dangers and contraindications
Problems usually arise when a person loses his sense of proportion. Hoping for quick results, he begins to eat the spice with large spoons.
Experts warn: in small doses it is a medicine, in large doses it is a dangerous product. For example, one pinch activates the brain, and a “horse dose” leads to loss of strength and headaches.
The coumarin contained in the spice has a negative impact on health - if the norm is exceeded, the liver may suffer from coumarin.
Healing spice is completely contraindicated pregnant women due to the threat of miscarriage, people with low blood clotting, serious stomach diseases, high blood pressure, pancreatitis (due to the large amount of essential oils).
You should not give this natural medicine to patients with high fever, as this will worsen their health.
How to use it correctly
The “adult” daily dose of powder is half a teaspoon(it must be divided into two doses). It is necessary to give the patient a break from this product: from time to time, for several days, do not use it at all.
Sometimes a doctor advises using cinnamon as a remedy for a course of 2 or 3 months, then the treatment is interrupted and resumed no earlier than a month later.
In cooking
The secret of cinnamon is that it goes well with almost all ingredients, so may be appropriate in desserts, meat dishes. But cottage cheese with this aromatic powder, juices, and fruit salads will be healthy and tasty.
It is recommended to add powder to different dishes 5-7 minutes before they are ready., then the amazing aroma remains, but the unpleasant bitterness that accompanies a dish “improved” with a pinch of magic powder at the very beginning of cooking or baking does not appear.
From this video you will learn a recipe for making a delicious, healthy dessert with ground cinnamon:
For weight loss
Why is cinnamon used in weight loss diets?
True, we must keep in mind that under the influence of high temperatures, some of its wonderful qualities are lost.
The secret is that she:
- accelerates metabolic processes, preventing the formation of fat;
- processes sugar faster, normalizing blood glucose levels;
- slows down digestion in the stomach, keeping you feeling full longer;
- reduces a person’s craving for sweets;
- Helps cleanse the body of waste and toxins.
Here's how to brew healthy coffee: pour cinnamon into a pot, add water, and put it on the fire. Remove as soon as the drink begins to boil.
You can do it for weight loss body wrap. Add one part of heated honey to three parts of cinnamon, mix and lubricate problem areas. Wrap in film, wrap and keep for half an hour. Then wash it off.
For arthritis treatment, prepare a drink from a glass of water, a couple of spoons of honey and one teaspoon of aromatic powder. Thanks to this composition, it is possible to relieve pain even in cases where the disease is advanced.
These teas are good for colds, flu, headaches and toothaches.
Let's talk about the benefits of sage for the female body. How is this herb used for weight loss, cosmetology and medicinal purposes?
In cosmetology
In cosmetology, both powder and essential oil are used (but it must be used with caution, since due to its high concentration it can be a strong allergen).
For inflamed skin, against acne Apply a mask of half and half, sour cream (2 tablespoons), cinnamon and lemon juice. The mask is applied to the face and kept for 15 minutes.
To improve the health of hair follicles, prepare a mask of spices and honey. After wrapping your head in a warm towel, keep the mask on your hair for 45 minutes.
Hair growth can be stimulated with a mask, which, in addition to spice, will also contain 4 cloves. The components are crushed and applied to the hair roots.
Like any remedy, cinnamon can have a healing effect only with regular use. One of the most important requirements is not to exceed the consumption standards recommended by experts. The principle “the more the merrier” can give a result opposite to what was expected.
In contact with
Cinnamon, ground rich in vitamins and minerals such as: vitamin E - 15.5%, vitamin K - 26%, potassium - 17.2%, calcium - 100.2%, magnesium - 15%, iron - 46.2%, manganese - 873.3%, copper - 33.9%, zinc - 15.3%
What are the benefits of ground cinnamon?
- Vitamin E has antioxidant properties, is necessary for the functioning of the gonads and heart muscle, and is a universal stabilizer of cell membranes. With vitamin E deficiency, hemolysis of erythrocytes and neurological disorders are observed.
- Vitamin K regulates blood clotting. A lack of vitamin K leads to an increase in blood clotting time and a decreased level of prothrombin in the blood.
- Potassium is the main intracellular ion that takes part in the regulation of water, acid and electrolyte balance, participates in the processes of conducting nerve impulses and regulating pressure.
- Calcium is the main component of our bones, acts as a regulator of the nervous system, and is involved in muscle contraction. Calcium deficiency leads to demineralization of the spine, pelvic bones and lower extremities, increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis.
- Magnesium participates in energy metabolism, synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, has a stabilizing effect on membranes, and is necessary to maintain homeostasis of calcium, potassium and sodium. A lack of magnesium leads to hypomagnesemia, an increased risk of developing hypertension and heart disease.
- Iron is part of proteins of various functions, including enzymes. Participates in the transport of electrons and oxygen, ensures the occurrence of redox reactions and activation of peroxidation. Insufficient consumption leads to hypochromic anemia, myoglobin deficiency atony of skeletal muscles, increased fatigue, myocardiopathy, and atrophic gastritis.
- Manganese participates in the formation of bone and connective tissue, is part of enzymes involved in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, catecholamines; necessary for the synthesis of cholesterol and nucleotides. Insufficient consumption is accompanied by slower growth, disturbances in the reproductive system, increased fragility of bone tissue, and disturbances in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
- Copper is part of enzymes that have redox activity and are involved in iron metabolism, stimulates the absorption of proteins and carbohydrates. Participates in the processes of providing oxygen to the tissues of the human body. Deficiency is manifested by disturbances in the formation of the cardiovascular system and skeleton, and the development of connective tissue dysplasia.
- Zinc is part of more than 300 enzymes, participates in the processes of synthesis and breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, nucleic acids and in the regulation of the expression of a number of genes. Insufficient consumption leads to anemia, secondary immunodeficiency, liver cirrhosis, sexual dysfunction, and the presence of fetal malformations. Research in recent years has revealed the ability of high doses of zinc to disrupt the absorption of copper and thereby contribute to the development of anemia.
You can see a complete guide to the most useful products in the appendix.
Currently, cinnamon is becoming increasingly popular as a spice and as an additive to almost any dish due to its specific tart aroma.
It is used in cooking, added to meat and soft drinks.
But few people know that cinnamon has a number of beneficial properties that help women and men cope with many serious diseases.
Cinnamon as a spice was known in Ancient Egypt and China. The best quality is Ceylon cinnamon, which is a thin layer of bark from the cinnamon tree.
Gradually, over time, it dries out, curls into thin and fragile tubes, acquiring a golden color and a tart, burning aroma.
Cinnamon contains many carbohydrates and polyunsaturated organic acids. Due to the low protein and fat content, the calorie content per 100 grams of spices is approximately 250 kilocalories.
Among the vitamins in high concentrations are choline, vitamins E, PP and group B. Cinnamon has a lot of potassium and vitamins involved in vital processes of the body. In addition, magnesium, phosphorus and sodium are also found in cinnamon.
Among the minerals in the spice, there is a lot of iron, manganese and zinc.
The amount of manganese in 5 grams of cinnamon allows you to offset the waste rate of its consumption by 50%.
Cinnamon owes its healing properties to the components of the essential oil present in the spice. These include aldehyde, acetate and alcohol, found in large quantities in the bark of the cinnamon tree.
The difference between ground cinnamon and cinnamon tubes
It is generally accepted that ground cinnamon is a waste of general production, a counterfeit on the food market, and therefore has no healing properties.
In fact, cassia - ground cinnamon, and cinnamon tubes have different chemical compositions.
To make a cheaper ground version, not only the bark of the tree is used, but also the inside. And preserving cinnamon in tubes involves a special technological process in which the bark from the cinnamon tree is removed in thin layers with special copper knives.
Therefore, if you check two types of cinnamon for the presence of starch, the ground spice will quickly turn dark blue, and the tubes will remain colorless.
In addition, cassia contains the substance coumarin, which is dangerous to human health, so it is not recommended to abuse the spice.
Useful properties of cinnamon in medicine
The spice has a specific taste and aroma and has a number of healing properties that help cope with serious disorders in human health.
- Consumption of cinnamon reduces the formation of malignant tumors, including intestinal cancer, several times.
This is due to the fact that the fibers and calcium contained in cinnamon combine with toxins and bile acids, removing them from the body.
- The spice allows you to restore the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, preventing constipation or, conversely, diarrhea.
In addition, regular consumption of cinnamon can heal stomach ulcers and relieve inflammation of the mucous membrane, reduce acidity and eliminate pain in the epigastric region. 
- An excellent anti-cold remedy due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- According to recent scientific research, cinnamon can lower blood sugar, and therefore is of particular value for patients with diabetes.
Due to polyphenolic compounds, cinnamon normalizes blood glucose levels and restores insulin secretion.
- Restores the functioning of the cardiovascular system and is a prevention against myocardial infarction and stroke.
At the same time, cinnamon reduces cholesterol levels in the blood, preventing the appearance of atherosclerotic plaques. Due to the potassium contained in the composition, the walls of blood vessels are strengthened, the load on the heart muscle is reduced, which makes it easier for the heart to work under stress.
- Cinnamon is an ideal remedy for increasing potency in men.
With regular consumption of honey with cinnamon, a man regains a stable erection and problems with the genitourinary system disappear.
In addition, the spice helps prevent inflammation of the prostate gland.
- Cinnamon can speed up metabolism in the human body, so it is a good remedy for weight loss.
Contraindications for use
Serious requirements for prohibiting the use of cinnamon include:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding period.
Cinnamon can contract the uterus, tone it, and provoke miscarriage and premature birth.
- Bleeding.
- In cases of exacerbation of chronic diseases of the stomach and intestines, cinnamon should be consumed in limited quantities, as it has an irritating effect.
Ground cinnamon contains a special substance - coumarin, which in high concentrations can cause migraines, nausea and affect metabolic processes in the liver.
Healing recipes with cinnamon
Nutritionists are confident that cinnamon can enhance the processes of burning fats and sugars in the body tenfold.
- For any diet, it is recommended to regularly consume kefir with the addition of cinnamon.
To prepare a burning cocktail: take a glass of kefir, stir in half a spoon of cinnamon, cut a small piece of ginger root into kefir and add a pinch of red hot pepper.
- Another popular recipe for weight loss is cinnamon with honey.
To do this, take a glass of boiling water, dissolve half a spoonful of ground cinnamon and one tablespoon of mountain honey in it.
This mixture allows you to remove excess fat, first from the abdomen and sides, gradually moving to other parts of the body.
Doctors recommend drinking half a glass of any infusion with cinnamon on an empty stomach in the mornings and evenings, as cinnamon gives a feeling of fullness.
- Drinking coffee with cinnamon energizes the body, increases efficiency and concentration.
However, it should be borne in mind that it is not advisable to add anything other than spices to coffee. This is due to the fact that cream, milk, sugar, and so on, sharply reduce the healing effect of cinnamon. Therefore, for an energizing cocktail, just add a pinch of powder to your coffee.
- Tea with cinnamon and lemon boosts a person’s immune system, especially during epidemics of ARVI and influenza.
In addition, prepared tea removes harmful toxins from the body and reduces cholesterol levels in the blood.
To prepare this infusion, you should take a couple of spoons of good strong tea leaves, pour boiling water over them and let it brew for an hour.
At this time, in a separate bowl, you need to dissolve the sugar in hot water, heat it in a water bath and add a pinch of cinnamon and the zest of one lemon to the solution.
Remove from heat and let sit for half an hour. After this, combine all the ingredients and strain.
- Cosmetologists try to add cinnamon to face masks to tighten the skin, make it more elastic and eliminate small expression wrinkles.
Microelements and vitamins increase blood circulation in the capillaries, nourish the skin from the inside, accordingly, improve the condition of the skin and add radiance and shine.
- For skin pigmentation, use a mask with bananas and cinnamon.
To do this, take three ripe fruits, knead them to a pulpy state, adding a little sour cream to them. To the resulting mixture you need to add half a spoon of ground cinnamon and a spoon of squeezed lemon juice. After mixing well, the mask is applied in a thick layer to the surface of the face, kept for half an hour and washed off with warm running water.
When cinnamon is added to cow's milk, it dramatically increases its absorption by the body. This is necessary for children suffering from milk intolerance, as well as adults who lack the lactose enzyme.
Correct selection and storage of cinnamon at home
In most stores and food markets you can find ground Chinese cinnamon - cassia.
Cassia is cheaper to obtain, transport and is very easy to counterfeit. Cinnamon sticks have a richer and tart aroma and retain more nutrients and valuable elements.
Cinnamon is divided into several varieties, depending on the presence of coumarin, a substance harmful to the human body:
- Ceylon cinnamon is considered the highest quality and most expensive to process.
It has a slightly pungent and sweetish taste, the color of the stick is golden brown;
- Chinese cinnamon with a pronounced pungent aroma, which contains more coumarin.
- In cooking, the most aromatic spice, cinnamon, is sometimes used.
Fresh cinnamon has a pungent aroma and a sweetish taste; the sharper the smell, the fresher the spice brought.
Over time, the aroma of cinnamon fades and its healing properties disappear. Therefore, experts do not recommend storing the spice for future use.
Ground cinnamon has a shelf life of six months, in a closed package in a cool, dry place.
Under the right storage conditions, cinnamon sticks can retain their healing properties for about a year.
To do this, they are hermetically sealed in glass jars and stored in a cool, dark place.
Thus, cinnamon lovers increase their immunity, become energized and can recover from many diseases without resorting to medications. However, it should be borne in mind that in high concentrations, cinnamon can cause irreparable harm to human health.
Every housewife knows about the aromatic spice - cinnamon, which makes culinary dishes and drinks especially tasty. However, cinnamon is not only an aromatic seasoning in cooking, but also an effective healing agent and a piquant component in perfumes. In ancient times, because of this fragrant spice, wars were started, countries were ruined and enriched. Ancient people learned to extract cinnamon at the dawn of the first civilizations. In many peoples of the world, cinnamon takes pride of place in cooking, increasing appetite and giving a special aroma and taste to culinary masterpieces.
Story
Cinnamon was first mentioned in Chinese manuscripts about 5 thousand years ago. Mentioned by Herodotus in the 5th century BC, finding the spice bark required passing through many obstacles. Arab merchants made up these stories to increase sales of the spice. That is why in Europe for a long time the spice was considered unattainable, accessible only to a select few.
There are also mentions of the spice in the Bible. The Old Testament says that Moses took cinnamon with him. There are also mentions of cinnamon in the ancient Indian treatise “Ayurveda”. It says it is a sweet spice with a tangy taste. In ancient times, entire caravans were sent with this spice. In Ancient Egypt, cinnamon was equated with gold. In the Middle Ages, the spice was used more as an aromatic spice. Venice was the main supplier of cinnamon for Europe, which purchased the spice from Alexandria. There is also mention of cinnamon in the Russian healing book “Cool Vertograd”.
Characteristic
Cinnamon is an evergreen tree of the Laurel family. Cinnamon is also called dried tree bark. Since ancient times, two types of this spice have been distinguished: real cinnamon and Chinese cinnamon tree. A distinctive feature of real cinnamon is its dark brown color, rich aroma and pungent taste, as well as the fragility of the sticks. Cassia is light brown in color, has a less intense flavor and is stick shaped and is difficult to break. Cassia also contains a lot of coumarin, which is hazardous to health. Real cinnamon contains these substances in very small doses.
Real cinnamon is made in India and Ceylon from the bark of cinnamon trees. The best varieties of cinnamon sticks are very thin (as thick as a sheet of paper). Because of their thinness, spice sticks are placed inside each other. The tree is grown for two years and then cut down to the root. Then many young shoots grow from it, from which the thin bark is cut off. For sale, sticks are cut into 5-10 cm lengths. Local cooks add aromatic cinnamon tree leaves to soups instead of bay leaves. Ceylon cinnamon is considered the best. Today, the spice is grown in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Brazil, India, Indonesia and other countries.
Chemical composition and nutritional value
The chemical composition of cinnamon includes cinnamon essential oil, tannins, resins, phenolic acids, vitamins and minerals. Ceylon cinnamon also contains the volatile compound eugenol, which gives the spice a pleasant and rich aroma. Cassia contains starch and coumarin. Coumarin in large doses is dangerous to health. However, in small quantities it is beneficial and improves blood flow. The energy value of the spice is 247 kcal per 100 grams.
| Nutrient | Quantity | Average norm per day for an adult |
|---|---|---|
| 247 kcal | 1684 kcal | |
| 3.99 g | 76 g | |
| 1.24 g | 60 g | |
| 27.49 g | 211 g | |
| 53.1 g | 20 g | |
| 10.58 g | 2400 g | |
| 3.6 g | – | |
| 15 mcg | 1.5 mg | |
| Lutein | 222 mcg | – |
| 0.041 mg | 1.8 mg | |
| 11 mg | 500 mg | |
| 6 mcg | 400 mcg | |
| 3.8 mg | 90 mg | |
| 2.32 mg | 15 mg | |
| 31.2 mcg | 120 mcg | |
| 1.332 mg | 20 mg | |
| 431 mg | 2500 mg | |
| 1002 mg | 1000 mg | |
| 60 mg | 400 mg | |
| 10 mg | 1300 mg | |
| 64 mg | 800 mg | |
| 8.32 mg | 18 mg | |
| 17.466 mg | 2 mg | |
| 339 mcg | 1000 mcg | |
| 3.1 mcg | 55 mcg | |
| 1.83 mg | 12 mg | |
| 0.011 g | 0.9-3.7 g | |
| 0.044 g | 4.7-16.8 g |
Beneficial features
Since ancient times, the healing properties of cinnamon have been known. Modern research confirms that the use of this seasoning has a positive effect on the body, increases tone, strengthens the immune system and helps overcome many diseases.
Ceylon cinnamon has a number of beneficial properties:
Modern medical research has confirmed the effective use of spices in treatment. Half a teaspoon of spice per day regulates blood sugar levels and prevents the development of inflammatory processes in the body. Some experts claim that with the help of this spice you can fight. Cinnamon is widely used as an antiseptic. It effectively cleanses the choleretic system and liver, removes excess fluid and salts from the body.
For school-age children, cinnamon will be effective as an antiviral and antibacterial agent. Spice also increases concentration and strengthens vision.
For women, the spice is indispensable during painful menstruation. It relieves pain, increases overall tone and removes irritability. In addition, regular use of the spice enhances sexuality.
In men, consuming cinnamon increases potency. The aroma of spice significantly increases the sensitivity of erogenous zones and stimulates the function of the sexual glands.
For older people, consuming the spice will protect against heart attack and reduce the formation of blood clots in the arteries. The spice also normalizes blood pressure, improves memory and has a positive effect on insomnia and depression.
Cinnamon effectively helps with coughs and severe sore throats, as well as toothaches.
The spice helps strengthen the body and protects against heart disease.
With the help of spices you can effectively combat bad breath. To do this, chew a small piece of cinnamon. Additionally, it is recommended to gargle in the morning with a solution of one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon.
The spice successfully helps with external and internal diseases. By adding it to food, it prevents the growth of various bacteria, which has a positive effect on the functioning of the stomach. In addition, the spice significantly affects the reduction of acidity levels, eliminates diarrhea and nausea.
Spice oil stimulates creativity and new ideas. The smell of cinnamon activates the cognitive function of memory, increases attentiveness and vigilance, and also eliminates blues and anxiety.
Contraindications
Spice in reasonable doses has a positive effect on the body. However, excessive consumption of the spice can lead to loss of strength, severe headaches and depression. In addition, the coumarin contained in cinnamon in large doses can cause liver and kidney damage. Considering that Chinese cinnamon (cassia) contains one hundred times more coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon, doctors strongly recommend that when purchasing, you specify where the spice came from.
The spice is contraindicated for the following categories of people:
- small children under three years old;
- pregnant women (affects uterine contractions, which can lead to premature birth);
- women who are breastfeeding (affects the taste of breast milk);
- people with poor blood clotting (blood thinning);
- people suffering from peptic ulcers;
- with high blood pressure and high temperature;
- for chemotherapy of oncological diseases;
- with individual intolerance to the spice and allergic reactions to it.
Proper storage
The spice should be stored in a closed glass container away in a dry and dark place. This will allow you to preserve the beneficial properties of the ground spice for six months, and the sticks for a year. For longer storage, it is recommended to store the spice in the refrigerator.
If a spice has lost its smell and freshness, then it no longer has useful substances and is harmful to health.
It is recommended to buy ground spice in small quantities. When choosing a spice powder, you need to smell how persistent its aroma is. To test cinnamon, you can take the solution and add it to a portion of the powder. If the powder turns dark blue, then it is cassia; if no obvious changes occur, then it is Ceylon cinnamon.
Treatment
Cinnamon can be used to cure many ailments. External use of the spice oil is popular for massages and rubbing. To prepare the aroma oil, take 10 ml of vegetable oil and mix with 2-3 drops of cinnamon oil.
For weakness, delayed menstruation, impotence, colds, diarrhea and flu, a drink made from spice and herbal oil will be effective. To prepare, use 1-2 drops of oil and 1 teaspoon of honey, adding these ingredients to herbal tea. For inhalation of the upper respiratory tract, use a few drops of spice oil with hot water.
When you have the flu or hypothermia, it is useful to drink a drink of hot wine and cinnamon, as well as hot water, honey, lemon juice, one clove and a pinch of spice. An excellent flu prevention drink is a drink made from half a teaspoon of spice, a pinch of ground black pepper and honey. It is recommended to drink one glass every three hours. If the cold is in its infancy, it is recommended to drink a cinnamon drink. All ingredients should be brewed in equal doses of 1/3 teaspoon per glass of boiling water and drunk every hour. To get rid of a headache due to a cold, prepare a paste of spices and apply it to the forehead for a certain time.
Scientists in Germany have conducted a number of studies that prove that cinnamon can eliminate some genitourinary tract infections.
For flatulence, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon tincture, half an hour after eating, effectively helps.
Weight loss
The spice is successfully used for weight loss.
There are many ways to lose weight using this spice. Using the spice, you can lose up to 2 kg of excess weight in a week. Due to its ability to enhance metabolism, the body effectively burns excess fat. Food in the body begins to be processed faster and does not remain in the body in the form of fat deposits. In addition, the spice regulates blood levels and affects the body’s natural self-cleansing processes. This leads to getting rid of toxins, excess fluid and accumulated waste in the body. The smell of cinnamon also reduces appetite. As a result, the spice leads not only to weight loss, but also to cleansing the body of harmful substances.
The most popular weight loss drink is with cinnamon. To prepare it you will need 1.5 liters of kefir and 1 teaspoon of spice. The ingredients need to be mixed and refrigerated. Then drink one glass throughout the day.
An ideal combination for weight loss is also cinnamon and ginger. To prepare such a fragrant kefir cocktail with cinnamon and ginger, you need to mix one glass of low-fat kefir, half a teaspoon of spices and ginger, and also add a pinch of ground red pepper. It is recommended to drink before bedtime.
To cleanse the body and remove the stomach, use a mixture of honey and cinnamon. In a month of taking the mixture you can lose up to 7 kg of excess weight.
Cooking recipes
In cooking, cinnamon is used in baked goods, fruit desserts, puddings and drinks.
Oriental drink with cinnamon
1-2 tablespoons of spices are poured into a glass of boiling water and left for about 5-7 minutes. Then filter and add 1-2 tablespoons of condensed milk.
Wine with cinnamon
Add 1-2 spice sticks to the wine and heat over low heat. Drink warm.
Cinnamon toast
The sliced ones are fried on one side. Place butter on the unfried side and sprinkle with a mixture of spices and sugar and fry until golden brown.
Cosmetic procedures
The spice is widely used in cosmetic procedures. It is actively used to give hair a healthy shine and elasticity. To get shiny and voluminous hair, make a mask of honey and olive oil. To prepare it, take 1 teaspoon of spice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and honey. The mixture is applied to damp hair for 45 minutes, then washed off with shampoo and rinsed with water. This mask helps with hair loss.
As always, sober analysis of information. We like to dig deep into the issue and use only official sources to assess the composition, calorie content and benefits of the product.
Let's figure out why the enthusiasm is justified and how to safely use the spice.
Did you come to immediately find out the dosage and methods of use?
Click on point No. 3 - doses per day and effective recipes. Don’t forget to study the selection rules - point No. 6 - how to distinguish real cinnamon from cassia.
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Cinnamon: chemical composition
Calorie content and significant concentration of useful substances in 1 tablespoon (+/- 8 grams) of ground spice:
- 19 calories
- 0 g fat, sugar or protein
- 4 g fiber
Vitamins and minerals:
- Manganese - 68% DN
- Calcium - 8%
- Iron - 4%
- Vitamin K - 3%
The modest picture of the main nutrients is complemented by rich list of polyphenols and flavonoids, led by eugenol and cinnamaldehyde. They have long been studied as antifungal and antibacterial biocompounds.
Useful properties of true spice
How to distinguish and where to buy true cinnamon - see point No. 6 at the end of the review.
Below we are talking only about real cinnamon. It is grown primarily on the Sri Lankan peninsula. It is expensive and is not found in bags of ground powder from the supermarket.
TOP 7 beneficial properties according to science
1) Many antioxidants that strengthen and rejuvenate the body.
The polyphenols and flavonoids found in the valuable bark help the body resist oxidative stress. According to an American study that tested 26 well-known spices for the amount and list of antioxidants, cinnamon is even ahead of garlic, oregano and cardamom. ()
Just 1 teaspoon of cinnamon provides the same amount of antioxidants as 100 grams of blueberries.
Powerful bio-compounds protect blood vessels from atherosclerosis and strengthen the immune system. And most importantly, it inhibits systemic senile inflammation, which is the cause of widespread age-related ailments - from arthritis and cancer to stroke and Alzheimer's disease.
How to relieve arthritis pain? A cup of coffee or tea with healing spices and a massage with cinnamon oil.
2) Maintains normal blood fluidity.
In moderate daily doses, coumarin thins the blood. Where there are no blood clots, there will be no vascular accidents of an ischemic nature (heart attack, stroke). For a stable effect - at least ½ teaspoon daily. ()
3) A good aid in the treatment of diabetes.
A classic 2003 study published in the journal Diabetes Care. A total of 60 diabetics were divided into 6 groups, of which 3 groups received cinnamon (1, 2 and 6 grams).
Conclusions over 60 days of the experiment: a decrease in blood glucose by 18-29%, regardless of the dose of spice, as well as a decrease in cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The study was repeated in a similar scenario 10 years later in the United States. Glycated hemoglobin was also monitored, which remained almost unchanged. ()
Scientists' verdict: our spicy heroine is an appropriate assistant in the lives of diabetics and not only them. The active biocompound methylhydroxychalcone (MHCH) accelerates the processing of sugar in the body by 20 times.
By using cinnamon even in small quantities, we make insulin work more effectively. Where there is an even low level of insulin, there is a slowdown in aging, weight loss and relief in the progress of diabetes.
4) When losing weight, it reduces hyperinsulinism and harmonizes the lipid profile.
If we are losing weight, then it is better to do it without harm to our health. Most overweight people have disturbances in carbohydrate metabolism. Therefore, all the benefits of spices for diabetes apply to them.
Proper nutrition can be accompanied by a drink with ginger and our heroine. We would not recommend relying on honey. It is better to add a safe sweetener (stevia or erythritol). This will reduce the calories and balance out the acidic lemon.
Ginger lemonade with cinnamon for weight loss.
How to cook. Freshly ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon) and ginger root shavings (raw piece 1.5-2 cm, three on a fine grater). Pour hot water (150-200 ml) over the spices and let it brew for 5-10 minutes. Add lemon (1-2 slices) - the cocktail is ready to promote you to slimness.
Dosage regimen: 1 glass in the morning 20 minutes before meals. This is a reasonable drink for weight loss in addition to diet and exercise for practically healthy people.
5) Antifungal and antibacterial activity.
Cinnamon oil is a common ingredient in chewing gum and toothpastes. The reason for this is the antibacterial properties without damaging the enamel and gums.
It is successfully used as a naturopathic remedy for the treatment of thrush and intestinal candidiasis.
The spice is able to defeat fungi that bother many people - Candida Albicans. The already described beneficial property for diabetics enhances the antifungal effect of our heroine. It regulates carbohydrate metabolism and inhibits insulin spikes in the blood. Under such conditions, candida colonies slow down their reproduction. ()
6) Neuroprotective properties.
Biocompounds in the heroine reduce the accumulation of tau protein in brain tissue. It is a biomarker for Alzheimer's disease. In Parkinson's disease (shaking paralysis), the healing spice harmonizes the level of neurotransmitters, which reduces tremors and inhibits the rate of neuronal death. ()
7) Relief of premenstrual syndrome in women.
A relationship has been found between mood swings and a lack of manganese, calcium, chromium and copper in the bloodstream. All these minerals are found in cinnamon sticks.
How much cinnamon can you take per day?
Doses in experimental regimens range from 1 to 5 grams per day.
Duration of treatment is from 3 to 6 weeks.
If we talk about a maintenance regime for weight loss, for diabetes or general health, then a simple solution would be reasonable - more frequent use of cinnamon in food and drink.
Daily dose - up to 2 grams.
- For example, enrich freshly brewed natural coffee with spices.
- Cinnamon tea with lemon: pour ½ teaspoon of powder with boiling water, add sweetener to taste.
- It is tasty and healthy to sprinkle the seasoning on fruits and fermented milk drinks.
- A generous pinch of spice will decorate dishes made from lentils, quinoa, beans and many oriental vegetarian dishes.
Nutritional recipes and methods of application
Cakes, bread, cookies and pies - everywhere there is a place for the favorite of confectioners. It also goes well with other sweets - ice cream and fruit, especially cherries, apricots, apples, blueberries and oranges.
Vegetables are in perfect harmony with carrots, spinach and onions: they bring out the sweetness of the powder. It is not difficult to find the fragrant spice in solid dishes - soups, sauces, pickles, meat stews.
Great sauce for fruit salads
A perfect example is prepared in minutes.
- Combine olive oil (2 tablespoons) with honey (1-2 teaspoons). Add 2-3 tbsp. spoons of orange juice and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, whisk and immediately pour over the dish.
- This sauce gives a new twist to a simple cabbage, carrot and apple salad. It’s very tasty if you let the slices sit in the refrigerator for a while (5 minutes).
Tea with spices Masala
In spicy mixtures, cinnamon most often coexists with cardamom, ginger and cloves. See if you like this ensemble.
We have to accept: true spice cannot be cheap. But even its worst variety is ahead of cassia in healing capabilities.
Do you love cinnamon too? Were you aware of all the beneficial properties? We hope you have no contraindications for its use. Share your favorite recipes with a bright aroma in the comments. We always have a place for something new in our collection.
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