29) THE SPICES OF LIFE-CINNAMON

Leaves of Cinnamon, Pithoragarh, Himalayas, India (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The smell of cinnamon can be described as sweet, spicy, aromatic with a tinge of mint flavor. Sometimes the flavor also reminds me of sweet vanilla.

English: Cinnamon (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Truly, Cinnamon is one spice that smells so good that it can be used to scent our homes or cupboards, kitchen, clothes or even for bathing. It can also deodorize unpleasant smells and act as an insect repellent. And to think that Cinnamon is actually dried tree bark. Besides having many household uses, Cinnamon also has numerous health benefits. Find out  the ten reasons why you should consider include Cinnamon in your diet.

Ten Health Benefits of Cinnamon

• Studies show that Cinnamon regulates blood sugar. It is very suitable for diabetics and hypoglycemics or anyone who wants stable energy levels and mood.
• The spice helps to reduce LDL cholesterol levels which is harmful. By lowering the level, it may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• It has  natural anti-infectious compounds. Studies done has shown that Cinnamon is effective in fighting ulcer-causing H.pylori bacteria and other pathogens.
• It can also reduce pain in arthritis patients. Studies that were done in Korea showed evidence that the properties in Cinnamon  may reduce cytokines linked to arthritic pain.
• Cinnamon may reduce the proliferation of cancer cells based on research done at the University of Texas and the findings were published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer.  
• It can be used as a natural food preservative
• It contains fiber, iron, calcium and manganese though in small amounts when used in moderation.
• It has also been proven to be effective for menstrual pains.
• It can promote the production of the hormone progesterone and testosterone in women and help to balance hormones as it contains a natural chemical named cinnamaldehyde. Therefore, Cinnamon is also used as treatment for infertility.
• According to a research by the University of Texas, Cinnamon can reduce chronic inflammation linked with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, Multiple sclerosis, Brain Tumor and Meningitis.

English: A Finnish cinnamon roll, korvapuusti. Suomi: Korvapuusti. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Finally, Cinnamon is such a versatile spice that it can also be used in cooking savory or sweet dishes such as curries, apple pies or pastries such as cinnamon rolls. It can even be made into ice-cream.

Cinnamon Ice Cream & Raspberry Sorbet (Photo credit: ulterior epicure)

My next topic for discussion is, "The Spices of Life-Turmeric."

You may also like to read:
31) THE SPICES OF LIFE-CORIANDER LEAVES AND SEEDS

28) THE SPICES OF LIFE-GINGER
15) LAVENDER, TEN NATURAL HEALTH BENEFITS
6) HONEY, FACTS AND MYTHS

MY ART CORNER

River Trader

A river trader on his way to sell his flowers to remote villages along the river in India.

Thanks for looking and taking the time to read my blog.  I welcome

feedback and please feel free to share your experiences in relation to today's topic.

Until my next post, "Here's to your health!"

DISCLAIMER

Readers are advised that the information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical care and should not be used treating a health problem or a disease and that the materials here are not meant as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your ailment

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