How to get health benefits from cinnamon. Cinnamon: medicinal properties and contraindications for use at different ages

Cinnamon can be called the spice of the elite, since in ancient times it was used exclusively during the preparation of dishes for crowned persons. The spice is obtained from the bark of cinnamon trees - trees of the Laurel family. It can be found on sale both in ground form and in the form of tubes (rolled pieces of bark).

In Russian, cinnamon got its name because of its brown color.

Cinnamomum verum is an evergreen cinnamon tree whose bark produces cinnamon. To obtain the spice, take the inner layer of tree bark.

Appearance

Cinnamon trees are evergreen shrubs. Greenish cinnamon flowers have a rather unpleasant odor.

The fruits of the plant are purple berries. The leaves of the cinnamon tree look like Bay leaf, but thinner and smaller.

Real or Ceylon cinnamon

The place where cinnamon trees of this species grow is not only Ceylon, but also Guiana, the island of Martinique, the states of Indonesia, Brazil, India and Malaysia. This cinnamon is valued higher than other types for its delicate smell and sweet taste. It is fragile.

In addition to Ceylon cinnamon, there are 3 more types that are much less valued.

Other types

Chinese (cassia)

It is also called fragrant, Indian or simple cinnamon. The well-known name for this type of seasoning is “cassia”. We wrote about it in detail in another article.

The trees from which this spice is extracted are grown in Indonesia, China, Laos, Cambodia and Burma. This spice has a less delicate aroma, it is sharper, tart and hot.

Spicy

It is also called cinnamon. This cinnamon is obtained from a bush that is grown in Indonesia and the Moluccas Islands. It is very fragile, with graininess at the break, a pungent cinnamon smell, and also a rather spicy taste.

Malabar

It is also called woody and brown. This cinnamon is extracted from the bark of trees growing in Burma and India. The difference between this spice and other types is its sharp bitter taste and dark brownish-brown color.

Where does it grow

The homeland of real cinnamon is South China. It is mentioned in Chinese writings dating back to 2800 BC. The taste of the spice was described by Pliny the Elder in the first century AD.

The highest quality cinnamon is produced in Sri Lanka - it has a warm, sweetish taste and a very pleasant aroma. This cinnamon is obtained from the thin bark of trees. Also, the production of this spice is established in such places and countries as Brazil, Egypt, Western India, Vietnam, the islands of Madagascar, Sumatra and Java.

Method of making spices

The bark is removed from cinnamon tree shoots that are less than three years old (usually shrubs about two meters high). Copper knives are used to obtain the bark, since cinnamon is rich in tannins that oxidize other metals.

The bark is harvested from the same tree twice a year. Usually the collection is carried out after the rainy period - at this time the bark is easier to remove and its aroma is higher.

The bark is cut into strips 1-2 centimeters wide and up to 30 centimeters long. The top skin of these strips is scraped off, after which inner part the bark is sent to dry in a shady place, waiting for it to darken and curl into tubes. Ceylon spice has a very thin bark, so after drying the wall thickness of the tubes can be up to 1 mm. Before sale, the tubes are cut into pieces 5-10 centimeters long.

Not only the bark is extracted from the cinnamon tree, but also unripe fruits, which are called cinnamon “buds.” They are collected immediately after flowering. In appearance, these “buds” are similar to cloves. They are less aromatic, but have a sweet and rather mild odor. These “buds” are especially valued in India and China.

To learn how real Ceylon cinnamon is made, watch the following video.

How to choose and where to buy

• Buy cinnamon powder in small quantities, as crushed spice quickly loses its aroma.
• The sticks have a more persistent taste, but they are quite difficult to grind.
• When choosing cinnamon powder, smell it - the aroma should be quite strong.
• You can check whether you bought cinnamon or cassia using an iodine solution. This test will have almost no effect on cinnamon, but cassia will take on a dark blue color.

Characteristics

• The Ceylon type of cinnamon has a delicate aroma, very unique.
• The taste of the spice is slightly hot and sweet.
• The structure of the seasoning is crumbly and not too dense.
• It goes well with other tart and spicy seasonings.
• You can add cinnamon to any dish that uses sugar.

Nutritional value and calorie content

100 g of cinnamon contains:

Chemical composition

Valuable substances in the bark of cinnamon trees are:

• essential oil (1-2%), consisting of cinnamaldehyde and tannins;
• fatty acid;
• alimentary fiber;
• minerals;
• mono and disaccharides;
• vitamins.

Beneficial features

Ceylon cinnamon itself and the essential oil extracted from it have the following properties:

• Strengthening blood supply and metabolic processes.
• Resistance to cellulite.
• Improvement of digestive processes.
• Relief from flu and colds.
• The warming effect makes the oil popular for massage.
• Help with nausea, dizziness or fainting.
• Eliminating bad breath.
• Neutralization of poisons entering the body from insect bites.
• Increased sexuality.
• Normalization of the menstrual cycle.
• Help with asthenia, fears, depressive, melancholic and anxious moods.
• Relief from seasickness.
• Normalization of blood sugar levels.
• Prevention of cardiovascular pathologies.
• Memory improvement.
• Strong antioxidant effect.
• Antimicrobial properties.

You can learn even more about cinnamon and its beneficial properties from the following video of the “1000 Little Things” program.

Harm

• Chemotherapy of cancer.
• Pregnancy (the spice stimulates uterine contractions).
• Increased individual sensitivity.

If you want to use the spice externally, you must definitely mix it with a carrier oil.

Eating cassia is harmful to health. Buy only real Ceylon cinnamon. To learn how to distinguish cinnamon from cassia, read another article.

Aroma oil

Both the aroma and taste of the spice are associated with the aroma oil in its composition. The tree bark contains approximately 0.5-1% of this oil. You can extract aroma oil from the spice by grinding the bark - it is soaked in sea water and distilled. The resulting oil has a yellow-golden hue, a burning taste and a characteristic cinnamon odor. These characteristics are due to cinnamaldehyde, which is the main component of cinnamon aroma oil. Gradually, the oil oxidizes, its structure becomes more resinous, and its color becomes darker.

Application

In cooking

Cinnamon bark is actively in demand in cooking:

• It is added to candies, chocolate and various desserts.
• Cinnamon sticks are used to prepare liquid dishes.
• With the help of cinnamon you can get an unusual taste of kefir and yogurt.
• The spice is added to marinades for meat, mushrooms or fruits.
• The spice in crushed (ground) form is added to dough and main courses.
• Cinnamon combined with sugar is often combined with cereals and fruits. It is especially often added to apple dishes.
• The cooking of Transcaucasia and Central Asia involves adding this spice when cooking lamb, other meat or poultry.
• This spice is included in various mixtures of dry seasonings.
• Adding cinnamon helps flavor drinks such as punch, grog or liqueur.
• Cinnamon goes well with salads made from carrots, spinach, young corn, and red cabbage.
• This spice can be added to fruit soups that are served cold.
• In England, cinnamon and sugar are sprinkled on crackers and served at tea parties.
• The French love to bake cakes with cinnamon.
• In some European countries, cinnamon is added to homemade beer.
• Cinnamon rolls make a great addition to pumpkin or tomato soup.
• Cinnamon goes great with coffee and cappuccino. You can stir the hot drink with a stick or sprinkle it with ground spices.
• In Thai and Indian cooking, cinnamon leaves are added to curries.

Adding spices to dishes is recommended at the end of cooking to avoid the appearance of a bitter aftertaste. The average amount of cinnamon per dish will be 0.5-1 teaspoon. spoon per kilogram of product or liter of liquid, although in oriental cooking this spice is used in much larger quantities.

Add 1-2 seasoning sticks and other ingredients to the wine to taste. Heat the liquid over low heat.

Toast the bread slices on one side, brush the other side (not toasted) with butter, then sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Fry on the other side until browned.

Boil fruits (apples, nectarines, pears, peaches) in syrup. Sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar, then place in the oven and bake until golden. These fruits should be served hot, topped with sour cream.

Watch the following video from the TV show "1000 and 1 Spice of Scheherazade". From it you will learn a lot about cinnamon.

In medicine

• External use of the oil involves mixing it with a vegetable base oil. For 10 ml vegetable oil take two or three drops of aroma oil. The mixture is used for rubbing and massage.
• Mix one or two drops of oil with tea. a spoonful of honey and adding to herbal tea, this drink is recommended for delayed menstruation, myalgia, weakness, impotence, diarrhea, colds, and flu.
• A few drops of aroma oil are dripped into hot water and do inhalations that help get rid of depressive mood and pathologies of the upper respiratory tract.
• By adding cinnamon to hot wine, this drink is recommended for flu-like conditions and hypothermia. Also, for the flu, you can make a drink by dissolving honey and lemon juice in hot water, and after adding a pinch of cinnamon and 1 clove, bring the liquid to a boil, then leave for 20 minutes.
• A preventive remedy for the flu is cinnamon brewed with boiling water, to which a pinch of black pepper and honey are added. Drink this remedy every three hours.
• If headaches occur with a cold, stir cinnamon with water until a thick paste is obtained and apply to the forehead.
• A strong infusion of cinnamon helps with diarrhea, meteorite and vomiting.

You can learn even more about the healing qualities of cinnamon from the program “Live Healthy!”

When losing weight

Cinnamon, due to its high amount of dietary fiber, prevents constipation ( common problem losing weight) and stimulates intestinal function. Another advantage of consuming cinnamon when losing weight is its positive influence on mood and loss of appetite. It is also known that this seasoning has the property of accelerating the breakdown of sugar. You can use cinnamon for weight loss in different ways:

• Add this spice to tea and coffee as a sugar substitute.
• Massage against cellulite with cinnamon.
• Do wraps.
• Do fasting days, drinking kefir flavored with cinnamon all day.

At home

Cinnamon aroma oil is added to “oriental” perfume compositions.

Growing

Cinnamon trees are unpretentious and easily tolerate unfavorable conditions. Uncultivated trees can grow up to 6-12 meters in height, but on plantations that are cultivated, the plant is usually represented by low shrubs. After growing a tree for 2 years, it is pruned almost at the root, so that in the third year of cultivation new shoots are obtained (about ten of them appear), from which the bark is cut off.

Storage

To store cinnamon, it is important to seal the container in which the spice is placed. It is optimal to keep cinnamon in a glass container. Seasoning sticks can be stored for up to 12 months, and powder for up to six months. It is best to keep the spice in a cool, dark cabinet.

According to the testimony of Herodotus of the 5th century. BC, anyone who wanted to find the precious cinnamon bark had to go through many trials: fighting monsters, searching for it at the bottom of lakes and in the nests of huge birds of prey - these are not all the obstacles on the way to the most valuable spice. By telling such tales, Arab merchants promoted their business. That is why in Europe, cinnamon has long been considered an unattainable spice that only a select few deserve.

In Ancient times and the Middle Ages, cinnamon was used more as an aroma spice and incense. At that time, cooks most often used Indian laurel, which had a similar aroma, for food. But to give a special taste to honey cookies and sweet wine with spices, it was simply necessary.

Even more historical facts:

• Cinnamon and its properties were learned about in ancient times. It often served as a gift to high-ranking persons.
• The spice was brought to Ancient Egypt from China. The Egyptians used this spice for embalming.
• Cinnamon is mentioned in the Old Testament. From the lines you can understand that this spice was valued higher than gold.
• The ancient Romans considered cinnamon to be a plant of Jupiter, representing the element of fire. The Romans used this spice on funeral pyres.
• Until the 17th century, cinnamon was collected from wild trees. Later, trees began to be cultivated to produce spices.
• IN Victorian era Austrian lovers gave each other bouquets of cinnamon, which was a symbol of love and tenderness.

India and Sri Lanka are considered to be the birthplace of cinnamon. Everyone is accustomed to using ground sprigs of the plant to decorate baked goods and other culinary dishes. In addition, cinnamon is widely used in cosmetology; it is also used by healers traditional medicine. In order not to be unfounded, let's consider the benefits and harms of cinnamon.

Composition of cinnamon

The plant is based on elements that have a beneficial effect on the health of all internal organs and systems of the body.

So, the spice is rich in vitamins. Of these, tocopherol, retinol, ascorbic acid, vitamin B, vitamin PP, vitamin K and others are no less valuable.

In addition, cinnamon contains potassium, sodium, manganese, and iron. This unique spice is not deprived of selenium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and magnesium. Cinnamon contains tannins, esters, phytoncides, dietary fiber.

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Medicinal uses of cinnamon

1. Asian peoples are accustomed to drinking cinnamon tea for colds and other misfortunes. The drink warms you up, gives you strength, strengthens your immune system and helps you recover after serious illness. To prepare the potion, take an enamel pan, place in it 3 branches of cinnamon, 8 buds of cloves, half a glass of crushed ginger root. Fill with 2.2 liters of water and wait until it boils. Then add the juice of half a lemon (you can add grated citrus zest) and simmer over low heat for 35 minutes. Strain and take as regular tea, adding honey.
2. People who constantly suffer from high blood pressure have a hard time. To bring down the indicators and normalize the condition, mix cinnamon with kefir or sour milk. Proportions: 1 spoon of cinnamon, 280 ml. drink This drug is taken once a day.
3. Oddly enough, cinnamon has an equally positive effect on blood pressure, lowering or increasing it. For hypotension, erection difficulties, unstable heart rate mix cinnamon ether with a glass of water (2-3 drops of ether per 250 ml). Divide this amount into 4 doses, take evenly throughout the day. You can add honey to taste.
4. Cinnamon, in particular its oil, has a positive effect on the nervous system. Very often the product is used in aromatherapy to restore the psycho-emotional environment. Inhaling aromas will relieve fatigue and apathy.
5. You can rub the spice on your forehead and temples to get rid of severe headaches and frequent migraines. Traditional healers are accustomed to using cinnamon to prevent heart pathologies such as ischemia, heart attack or stroke. In such cases, it is necessary to mix the spice with honey, then spread it on bread and eat it in the form of a sandwich. Similarly, you can dilute the composition with water and consume three times a day.
6. Cinnamon has also been used in the treatment of joint pain. If the patient has arthritis, it is recommended to mix 200 ml. water with a pinch of cinnamon and a spoon of honey. This volume is divided throughout the day and consumed 4 times.
7. Cinnamon is also recognized in the hair care industry. It helps cope with alopecia in men and women. If you are experiencing severe hair loss, mix 30 g. burdock oil with 20 gr. honey, 5 pinches of cinnamon. Rub into the roots, wrap your head and leave for half an hour. Rinse off and repeat every other day.
8. Honey and cinnamon are an effective duet that is used almost everywhere. This ointment can be rubbed onto damaged areas of the skin, scratches, fungal growths, and eczema. Cinnamon is also effective in treating acne. Mix 50 gr. honey with 3-5 pinches of cinnamon, apply to the skin and wash after 10 minutes.
9. Cinnamon can cure mosquito and other insect bites. To relieve pain, mix 30 ml. water with 30 gr. honey, add half a teaspoon of cinnamon. Rub into the affected areas until absorbed, you will feel the itching go away.
10. The spice is widely used to combat premature skin aging. To do this, you need to mix cinnamon with aloe vera juice and honey. This composition is applied as a mask to the face and left for 20 minutes. To prolong youth, carry out procedures once every 2 days.
11. Patients with diabetes will benefit from knowing that cinnamon can lower blood sugar levels. To do this, you need to consume a mixture of 150 ml in the morning. water and half a teaspoon of spice.
12. Women's doctors advise new mothers to consume a healing composition that will help them recover faster after childbirth. To prepare the product, combine 1 cinnamon stick with 0.5 l. water, boil, let stand for a third of an hour. Add honey and drink 3 times a day in small sips.

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Use of cinnamon in cooking

Most often, cinnamon is used in cooking to add piquancy and flavor to dishes. pleasant aroma spices.

1. Almost all countries of the world prepare a pie with fresh apples and cinnamon powder; the dessert turns out to be tender and dietary.
2. Cinnamon is used to decorate buns, and the spice is added to rolls, no-bake desserts, and cookies.
3. Many experienced chefs add the powdered composition to main courses. Cinnamon goes well with meat, red fish, mushrooms, and seafood cocktails.
4. We couldn’t do without adding cinnamon to winter drinks, such as tea, coffee, cocoa, mulled wine, and apple sbiten. The spice is also mixed into summer cocktails: jelly, cider, smoothies, fruit drinks.
5. Cinnamon is considered a unique spice that goes well with almost any food. Many people love the spice in cooking. Raw materials are often mixed into desserts, cottage cheese, creams, drinks, soups and meat dishes.

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Benefits of cinnamon

1. Due to the fact that the spice improves the production of gastric juice, it is used to improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. With regular consumption of the spice, the absorption of food is enhanced and its fermentation in the esophagus stops. Cinnamon normalizes stool and fights constipation, relieves bloating and excessive gas formation.
2. The spice has a pleasant ability to remove excess water from the body. Against this background, swelling of the limbs decreases and kidney activity improves. Cinnamon also promotes the flow of bile, thereby reducing the load on the liver.
3. The plant contains a compound that is most valuable for diabetics - polyphenol. This substance lowers blood sugar levels and prevents spikes. The body absorbs insulin, which makes the course of the disease easier.
4. Decoctions with cinnamon are beneficial for women during the menstrual cycle. Firstly, spice relieves painful spasms and normalizes the abundance of discharge. Secondly, cinnamon controls hemoglobin levels and increases iron content.
5. The plant is not only beneficial for women, it is also valuable for men. If you have problems with potency, make it a habit to consume a spoonful of honey with a pinch of cinnamon every day.
6. The value of spices for people has been revealed old age. Cinnamon has a positive effect on the heart, controls blood pressure, and reduces the likelihood of developing senile dementia.
7. Cinnamon lubricates joints, prevents the accumulation of salts, strengthens bone tissue. The spice is useful for athletes because it promotes accelerated weight gain and maintains the elasticity of muscle fibers.

Benefits of cinnamon for women

1. The composition has a positive effect on the body, especially during the menstrual cycle. The product suppresses pain, improves mood and stabilizes hormonal levels.
2. Cinnamon is in demand in cosmetology. The raw material allows you to get rid of acne and blackheads on the skin. To do this, you need to systematically make various masks. Combine 80 g in a cup. honey and 12 gr. ground cinnamon. The product is applied locally before bedtime. In the morning, wash your face with non-hot water.

The benefits and harms of cinnamon for children

1. Cinnamon is not recommended for infants. The product will bring the greatest benefit to children school age. After 7 years, the daily intake of raw materials should be 2 times less than for adults.
2. It is worth noting that if the child has previously had an allergy to anything, cinnamon should be given with extreme caution. Otherwise, the child will develop a skin rash, diathesis and itching. Otherwise, a small intake of cinnamon significantly increases brain activity.
3. If the child has no contraindications, the product should be given daily in small quantities. Raw materials have a positive effect on general development child. Cardiovascular activity and psycho-emotional background improves. Cinnamon will protect the child's body from seasonal viruses and colds.

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Cinnamon for weight loss

1. The composition allows you to enhance the taste of various dishes and have a positive effect on the body. The powder helps in the treatment of many ailments and also fights obesity.
2. To say goodbye to unwanted pounds, just add cinnamon to various dishes. For each meal you need to add 0.5-1 grams. spices. Cinnamon has a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
3. In the near future there will be a feeling of comfort, things will get better natural processes. Internal organs begin to work harmoniously. For obesity, it is recommended to replace cinnamon with granulated sugar.
4. Wraps with added spice are no less effective. It is also recommended to make low-calorie cinnamon smoothies. Such drinks should be taken instead of snacks. It is important to comply daily norm spices.
5. Don't rejoice ahead of time, cinnamon won't bring you great benefit when losing weight, if you add the powder to baked goods. To say goodbye to excess weight, it is important to balance your diet and avoid unhealthy foods.
6. The spice has excellent antioxidant properties. Thanks to cinnamon, the body is completely cleansed of slagging and toxic compounds. The powder slightly dulls the feeling of hunger.

The benefits and harms of cinnamon with honey

1. As for the harm of such a combination of products, we can only consider an allergic reaction to the components. Otherwise, the product has a tremendous positive effect on the entire body.
2. With the help of the medicinal composition, you can improve your health during vitamin deficiency and colds. The mixture suppresses the activity of cancer cells and free radicals. Honey with cinnamon significantly increases brain activity, relieves pain and ailments associated with joints.
3. Often such a composition is used in for cosmetic purposes. To improve your hair health and give it greater thickness, you need to combine 30 grams. cinnamon and 150 ml. honey. Apply the product to your hair, warm yourself, wait 2 hours. Remove the mask as usual.

Harm of cinnamon

1. Do not assume that a large amount of powder will help you achieve faster desired result. Like any raw material, cinnamon should be included in the diet in reasonable quantities. Stick to the recommended daily intake.
2. Cinnamon may cause damage when diagnosing stomach ulcers and gastritis. Raw materials have a negative effect on the damaged mucous membrane of internal organs.
3. It is worth knowing that the product puts additional stress on the kidneys and liver. Therefore, if you have problems with these internal organs, cinnamon should be excluded from your diet.
4. It is not recommended to consume the product during pregnancy. Cinnamon can trigger the development of an allergic reaction in a baby. Raw materials are allowed to be included in minimal quantities during the lactation period. Cinnamon increases the quantity and quality of milk.

Without any doubt, cinnamon is considered one of the healthiest spices. The product has no special contraindications. Keep track of how much you consume per day. Otherwise, you can harm your health. The product is recommended for cosmetic, medical and culinary purposes.

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Video: beneficial properties and harm of cinnamon

Cinnamon, or as it is also called Ceylon cinnamon, is an evergreen plant belonging to the Laurel family. It grows in the jungle.

The bark is collected during the rainy season.

The spice has the same name as the plant. Cinnamon can be purchased in bark form, rolled into a tube, or ground.

The roots of the story of cinnamon go back to ancient times. This spice had a high cost and it was presented to emperors, kings, and kings as a gift. Cinnamon was brought to Ancient Egypt from China. In value it was equal to gold.

In the Middle Ages in Europe, cinnamon was sold by merchants who bought it in Alexandria. At the end of the 15th century, traders from Portugal discovered Sri Lanka and were able to use cinnamon at their discretion for more than 100 years.

After this, Sri Lanka was liberated by the Dutch. They began cultivating this plant to other countries.

It began to be grown in tropical Asia, the West Indies and the Seychelles.

This is what a cinnamon tree looks like in nature

For commercial purposes, cinnamon is grown in Vietnam, Brazil, western India, Egypt, and on islands such as Sumatra, Madagascar, and Java.

But the most valuable cinnamon is still considered a spice from Sri Lanka. It has a thinner bark, a delicate aroma and a sweet, warming taste.

Today, cinnamon is used all over the world. It is used to make chocolate, desserts, candies, liqueurs, and marinades.

• In Sri Lanka, the spice is used in the form of dried leaves and added to soup.
• In the East, cinnamon is still, as before, added to spicy meat dishes.
• In America, cinnamon is added to cereals and fruits.
• In Germany, this spice is used for mulled wine.

In Russia, both cinnamon and its closest relative, cassia from the Cinnamon family, are sold.

Cassia is native to China and its bark is thicker and rougher. Natural cinnamon has a very delicate aroma, the structure of the bark is very fragile, and the sticks are thin. Let's find out more about

Cinnamon - benefits and harm to the body

Beneficial features

Fragrant, tasty cinnamon is not only a spice, but also a cosmetic and medicine in various fields.

• It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Eugenol, which is part of cinnamon, kills germs.
• This spice strengthens the immune system and enhances the protective function in the body.
• It is a natural antioxidant.
• When consuming cinnamon, blood glucose levels decrease.
• This spice improves digestion, burns fat, converting glucose that enters the body into energy.
• The blood vessels dilate, and the work of the brain is activated.
• Cinnamon is good for diabetes. Blood sugar levels decrease when consumed.
• For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and intestines, this spice helps speed up the healing process of ulcers, acidity decreases, pain in the stomach is relieved, digestion is normalized, colic and bloating are eliminated.
• Since cinnamon natural antiseptic, it disinfects wounds and relieves pain.
• Various types of skin diseases are treated with cinnamon.
• In addition, cinnamon helps with heart disease, colds and decreased immunity. It is used as a weight loss product.

Contraindications

Cinnamon should not be used if:

• high blood pressure,
• temperature,
• nervous excitability,
• in old age,
• for allergies,
• pregnancy.

Recipes for diabetes, why does cinnamon help?

Cinnamon contains: more than half of general composition aldehyde, 20 percent phenol, polyphenol, tannins, essential oils, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, copper, iron, zinc, selenium, manganese.
Vitamins A, C, E, K, riboflavin, thiamine, folic acid.

Essential oils stabilize blood sugar levels, remove bad cholesterol.

Polyphenol replaces insulin and is easily taken up by cells. When consuming cinnamon, the blood is saturated with oxygen. Liver, kidneys, digestive tract start to work correctly. The spice has antibacterial, antiseptic and diuretic effects.

With high blood sugar, the phenol in cinnamon prevents inflammatory processes in the body. When the spice is consumed, the production of harmful substances is blocked. Glucose metabolism increases 20 times.

Heart diseases in diabetes go into remission. Cinnamon is especially beneficial for type 2 diabetes.

The calorie content of glucose is 260 kilocalories per 100 gm. A stick weighing 4 grams contains 10 kilocalories.

When adding half a teaspoon of spice to porridge, tea, freshly squeezed juice, coffee, kefir, vegetable salads general state is improving.

Kefir with cinnamon is very effective for diabetes.

To do this, take: half a teaspoon of cinnamon, 250 milliliters of kefir and half a teaspoon of chopped ginger, 2 peas or a pinch of red pepper.

Another recipe for cinnamon with kefir.

For a glass of kefir use 1 teaspoon of spices.
You need to take a glass before breakfast and before bed for 10 days.

This drink acts almost instantly and alleviates the condition of diabetics.

Add a teaspoon of spice to a liter of water, put the mixture on the fire and boil for 15 minutes.

You need to take it in portions, every hour. Course duration is 10 days without breaks.

Video recipe for kefir with cinnamon for diabetes

Benefits of cinnamon for men, recipe

Cinnamon strengthens the body and increases vitality. With regular consumption of various dishes with cinnamon, men notice an increase in potency.

Vitamin A contained in cinnamon is a source of iron and calcium. They normalize the functionality of the genital organs. This spice stimulates blood circulation, which directly affects erection in men.

In addition, cinnamon helps in the treatment of diseases genitourinary system. When taking cinnamon, microbes are killed in the body, which prevents the development of prostatitis, cystitis, pyelonephritis and other diseases.

When overexerted, erections may decrease, and cinnamon oil relieves inflammatory spasms and helps you relax before intimacy.

For inflammation of the kidneys and liver, cinnamon is not recommended as an aphrodisiac.

There are several quite effective recipes to improve erection.

Cinnamon powder is poured with boiled water cooled to 40 degrees, left for 30 minutes, honey is added. The ratio of water and honey should be 2:1. The course of treatment is 2 months. Take half a glass before meals.

• Natural cinnamon essential oils can be added to various dishes. It goes well with drinks, meat, desserts, first and second courses.

Also, for coffee lovers, you can add cinnamon to this drink; a pinch of spice is added per cup.

• It is better to replace soda with tea with added cinnamon. Orange zest, 2 cinnamon sticks are poured with boiling water, sugar or honey is added.

To strengthen the muscles of the heart and increase desire, take 60 grams of cinnamon, 30 grams of vanilla, and pour everything with a glass of red wine. The mixture is infused in a dark place for two weeks. Take a glass once a day with meals.

• Hot mulled wine is a powerful aphrodisiac, as it contains cinnamon, lemon, cloves and honey.

Benefits of cinnamon for women

Cinnamon has many beneficial effects on the body; in addition, for women, cinnamon allows:

• Reduce postmenstrual pain.
• This spice helps convert sugar into energy. This fact allows you to reduce weight.
• In the first 2 weeks after the birth of a child, cinnamon promotes uterine contractions.
• For nursing mothers, tea with cinnamon and milk can improve lactation.

Cinnamon is contraindicated for pregnant women, as the substances in its composition can cause miscarriage.

Cinnamon for weight loss. Why is it useful for losing weight, recipes

Cinnamon lowers blood sugar levels, speeds up the metabolic process, slows down the entry of food into the intestines, creating the effect of satiety.

This spice is added to cereals, cocoa, coffee, low-calorie yoghurts, jellies, tea, and puddings.

A drink made from cinnamon and honey in a 1:2 ratio works best.

The cinnamon is poured into a cup, poured with boiling water and left to cool. Then honey is added.

The glass is divided into two doses and consumed in the morning 30 minutes before breakfast and before bed.

It is added to tea. A spoonful of cinnamon goes into a cup of tea.

Cinnamon can be added to kefir and fermented baked milk.

Video recipe for kefir with cinnamon for weight loss

Cinnamon with kefir

Lately people who want to reset excess weight, go on a kefir diet.

When adding cinnamon to kefir, fat is burned much faster, and digestion is accelerated and allows harmful substances not to linger in the body. This drink can be consumed daily.

During fasting days the body receives valuable substances, a small amount of food and a pleasant taste, which helps to go through this process easier.

Prepare a drink from a teaspoon of spice per glass of liquid.

Kefir with cinnamon, pepper, ginger

A fairly popular recipe for various diseases and weight loss is kefir with cinnamon, red pepper and chopped ginger. This drink helps with excess weight and other health problems.

Kefir gently cleanses the intestines and improves digestion. In addition, it has a diuretic effect, reducing the likelihood of edema. Kefir contains protein and calcium, and these substances reduce appetite.

Cinnamon reduces blood glucose levels and dulls the feeling of hunger.

Red pepper suppresses appetite, accelerates metabolic processes, helps break down lipids. Provokes thirst, which also helps reduce weight.

Ginger activates the digestive process, helps digest protein, normalizes metabolism, and cleanses of waste and toxins.

For a glass of low-calorie kefir, add a teaspoon of spice, a pinch of red pepper, and one and a half teaspoons of grated ginger.

The mixture is stirred and left to infuse for half an hour. Use for no more than 2 weeks 20 minutes before meals.

This drink should not be consumed by: pregnant women, nursing mothers, people with calcium stomach ulcers, gastritis, allergies to ingredients, any bleeding, hypertension, fever, nervous excitement.

Coffee with cinnamon - benefits, harm, how to prepare?

There are quite a few recipes for coffee with cinnamon. It is diluted with cream, milk, mixed with other spices and even alcohol.

The Arabic traditional coffee recipe is quite simple:

125 milligrams of water, a heaped teaspoon of coffee, half a teaspoon of cinnamon, a third of a teaspoon of sugar.
Everything is poured into a pot, heated over a fire, water is poured into the dry mixture and brought to a boil. Part of the mixture is poured into a cup and heated again. The result is coffee with a beautiful foam.

The English recipe involves the use of milk.

A cinnamon stick is boiled in 120 g of milk, and the finished cinnamon milk is added to coffee.

In addition to these recipes, you can make coffee with cinnamon and honey or with cinnamon, ginger.

For 250 milligrams of freshly brewed coffee, add a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of cinnamon.

For 2 spice sticks, 2 teaspoons of ground coffee, 1 centimeter of fresh ginger root, 150 grams of water.

Coffee with cinnamon is poured with boiling water and infused for 10 minutes. Ginger is cut into pieces, added to the drink and left to infuse for 5 minutes.

Used 20 minutes before eating.

For taste, add 1 piece of cardamom and 2 pieces of cloves.

The feeling of hunger after drinking this coffee decreases. Weight loss and blood sugar levels level out.

For heart disease, gastrointestinal and kidney diseases, this coffee is contraindicated.

Coffee with pepper, cinnamon:

2 teaspoons of natural coffee, half a teaspoon of spice, a pod of chili pepper (less or more is possible), 100 milliliters of water.
The ingredients are placed in the Turk, filled with water and cooked over low heat. After boiling, remove from heat.

A popular French recipe is coffee with wine.

• To do this, espresso is brewed from heavily roasted ground beans.
• After the coffee has cooled, add cinnamon, sugar, grated orange zest, and dark yellow mulled wine.
• Everything is whipped in a blender and poured into glasses.
• For two cups of espresso you need half a teaspoon of zest, a pinch of cinnamon, one and a half spoons of sugar and 50 grams of wine.

Cinnamon tea - benefits and harms, how to prepare?

In cold winter, tea helps to warm up and restore, and with the addition of cinnamon, this drink returns strength and gives the effect of warming from the inside.

This tea normalizes the gastrointestinal tract, helps cleanse the intestines, and accelerates glucose metabolism. Microelements help fight extra pounds. Appetite decreases. Helps remove waste and toxins.

There are many recipes for this drink and choosing the right one is quite easy.

1. A pinch of mint, a third of a teaspoon of cinnamon, and citrus peel are added to the brewed tea. Tea with additives is infused for a couple of minutes, filtered and ready to drink.
2. 2 teaspoons of loose leaf black tea, 1 clove, half a cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon of ginger and half a liter of boiling water. Everything is mixed, infused for a couple of minutes, lemon or orange juice is added, and honey for sweetness.

If the tea is steeped longer, it acquires a bitter taste and can be harmful.

The water should not be very hot.

Eating cinnamon in large quantities is harmful to the body and has a negative effect on the stomach.

Cinnamon with honey: recipes

For weight loss, daily consumption of cinnamon with honey can help you lose weight.

The mixture is prepared in the evening.

For one part of cinnamon, take 2 parts of any natural honey. Cinnamon is poured into water for half an hour. Honey is added after cooling. You need to drink half the serving before bed. The second part is taken cold before breakfast.

Cinnamon with honey cleanses the esophagus, bacteria, fungi, and removes toxins.

Cinnamon and honey spread spread on bread for breakfast lowers cholesterol, reduces the risk of heart attack.

Daily consumption of half a spoon of honey with cinnamon in a glass of water in the morning and afternoon relieves fatigue and gives strength.

For arthritis a cup of warm water, 2 tablespoons of honey, a dessert spoon of cinnamon cures even an advanced form of the disease.

Honey with cinnamon:

• removes bad cholesterol,
• strengthens the immune system,
• restores the genitourinary system,
• strengthens hair,
• treats skin infections, rashes,
• insect bites,
• indigestion, bloating,
• toothache,
• smell from the mouth,
• hearing loss,
• all types of colds and much more.

Cinnamon, when consumed correctly, not only improves health and reduces weight, but also prolongs life and improves its quality. Now you are familiar beneficial features cinnamon and contraindications for use.

The taste and aroma of cinnamon is known to almost 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 if used correctly it can become 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

And yet, it can really bring health benefits, but it must be a high-quality product, which is not so easy to choose.

Let's figure out how to determine the quality of ground cinnamon. Best variety It is produced in Sri Lanka and is called Ceylon cinnamon.

However, in trade it can be passed off as the so-called “cassia”, which grows in China and Indonesia.

Unfortunately, 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, be sure to inquire about the country of origin in the store. If this is Sri Lanka, don’t hesitate to buy it.

If Indonesia, Vietnam or China - do not rush to buy. Experts also do not advise purchasing goods packaged in the USA, Israel and Germany, because these countries do not have established supplies from Sri Lanka.

It’s safer to buy cinnamon sticks(it’s easy to grind them at home), here the likelihood of error is reduced: Ceylon is light brown in color, but cassia is heterogeneous in its shades - reddish, brown or gray.

They are also distinguished by their smell: the first one is soft and sweet. The second one is not so rich and at the same time rough, sweet to the point of cloying.

An experiment that can be easily carried out 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 learn about the benefits and harms of mustard for the human body! Let's tell you all about the healing spice!

In the next review, read about the medicinal properties of turmeric, and find out whether there are contraindications to consuming the oriental spice!

Do you want to know what benefits ginger has for the human body? Find the composition, beneficial properties and areas of application of this valuable product here:

What is good for the body

Ground cinnamon has many valuable properties, which must be exploited, in some cases giving preference to this gift of nature rather than to any chemicals.

In the list below you can clearly see how ground cinnamon is beneficial for the human body.

Medicinal properties of ground cinnamon:

• anti-inflammatory and bactericidal;
• antimicrobial;
• it has a positive effect on the composition of the blood (with its help you can avoid the formation of blood clots);
• removes toxins from the body;
• reduces the amount of sugar in the blood (this occurs due to the substance polyphenol, which takes on the functions of insulin);
• provides an analgesic effect;
• supports liver function, as well as the choleretic system;
• activates brain activity;
• restores strength and performance;
• improves memory;
• helps overcome depression.

Features of the impact on human 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.

Adult men and women

According to ancient legend, the goddess of love Aphrodite won the hearts of her fans not only with her beauty, but also with her little feminine tricks.

There is always 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 really very effective for men, returns their lost strength, with its 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 reduce levels in the body bad cholesterol, the amount of sugar in the blood will contribute to the loss of excess kilograms - that is, it will fight all those troubles that can slowly but surely turn a not-so-old person into a “ruin.”

Men who use this natural medicine regularly suffer less from various diseases urinary tract. 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 the tone of the body, 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.

He has property of provoking uterine contractions, which sometimes leads to miscarriage or problems with fetal development.

Concerning postpartum period, then, as people say, it’s 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 extremely careful in choosing food and drinks so that none of them cause the baby allergic reaction.

Cinnamon, unfortunately, can provoke it.

We will discuss red clover, its medicinal properties and contraindications for using the plant in our next article!

How to prepare a decoction of St. John's wort, and what healing properties this herb has, you will find out from a special review.

How medicinal properties Elecampane roots and leaves are used in folk medicine, read this article:

Children

For children who have been allergic to any 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 years old: 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. In addition, the child receives good protection against viral infections, which becomes relevant during influenza 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 against arthritis,
• with memory disorder,
• against insomnia.

According to scientific research, cinnamon is good prophylactic against such a serious disease as 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 harms of ground cinnamon:

Potential dangers and contraindications

Problems usually arise when a person loses his sense of proportion. In hope of positive result begins to eat the spice with large spoons.

Experts warn: in small doses it is a medicine, in large doses it is a product that can harm health. For example, one pinch activates the brain, and a “horse dose” leads to loss of strength and headaches.

The coumarin contained in the spice also negatively affects health - if the consumption rate 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, as well as 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 only 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 imperative to give the patient a break from this product: from time to time, do not use it at all for several days.

Sometimes a doctor advises using cinnamon as a remedy a course of 2 or 3 months, then treatment is interrupted and resumed (if necessary) no earlier than a month later.

In cooking

The secret of cinnamon is that it finds a “common language” with almost all ingredients, so can be appropriate in both desserts and meat dishes. But cottage cheese with this aromatic powder, juices, and fruit salads will be both healthy and tasty.

It is recommended to add powder to various dishes 5-7 minutes before they are ready, in this case the amazing aroma is preserved, 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 and healthy dessert with ground cinnamon:

For weight loss

Why is cinnamon used in weight loss diets? The secret is that she:

True, we must keep in mind that under the influence of high temperatures, some of its wonderful qualities are lost.

• accelerates metabolic processes, preventing the formation of fat;
• processes sugars faster, normalizing the presence of glucose in the blood;
• slows down digestion in the stomach, keeping you feeling full longer;
• reduces a person’s craving for sweet foods;
• Helps cleanse the body of waste and toxins.

Here's how to make healthy coffee: cinnamon and

pour it into a Turk, fill it with 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 the cinnamon and honey in film, wrap it and keep it for half an hour. Then wash it off.

For the treatment of various diseases

For gastritis, ground cinnamon (half a teaspoon) is used in combination with honey. Consume daily, before meals. This product helps reduce acidity and relieves bloating.

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.

On our website we will tell you about the medicinal properties and contraindications of Ivan tea! We have prepared several interesting facts about a medicinal plant!

Do you know the benefits of tea with mint and lemon balm? We reveal the secret of preparing a miraculous drink in this article!

In the next article we will talk about the benefits of sage for the female body. How this herb is 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 Experts recommend a mask of half a banana, sour cream (2 tablespoons), cinnamon and lemon juice. The mask is applied to the face for 15 minutes.

To improve the health of hair follicles, prepare a mask of spices, olive oil 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 spices, will contain an onion and 4 cloves of garlic. All this is crushed and applied to the hair roots.

Like any other tool, cinnamon can give 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 better” can give the opposite result to what was expected.

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Cinnamon: the benefits and harms of your favorite fragrant seasoning. Composition and use of cinnamon: its beneficial properties and harmful qualities

Obtained from the bark of a small evergreen tree growing in Asian countries, cinnamon is a spice that is added to coffee, tea, and dough.

Cinnamon is so rich in beneficial properties that it is also used for medicinal purposes.

Most often, the seasoning is found in ground form. The most useful - cinnamon Ceylon. It is a light brown powder with a mild sweet aroma.

Composition of cinnamon and methods of use

Cinnamon contains substances that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the entire human body. The spice contains: essential oil, tannins, vitamins (A, C, K, E, PP, B), as well as sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, manganese.

Due to its rich composition, cinnamon extremely useful for good health. It is used in cooking, cosmetology, weight loss and treatment various ailments.

1. Warming tea for colds with cinnamon gives strength and helps to defeat the disease faster. It is prepared according to an Asian recipe: Place 3 cinnamon sticks, chopped ginger root (half a glass), and cloves (half a spoon) into an enamel container. The composition is poured with water (8 cups) and brought to a boil.

After this, add the juice of half a lemon (you can add the peel) and simmer over very low heat for about an hour. After this, the mixture is filtered, cooled and drunk warm, adding honey.

2. The most popular use of cinnamon is in cooking. A traditional dish that is prepared in different countries- pie with cinnamon and green apples. In this dish cinnamon powder adds a special taste and aroma to delicate baked goods.

In addition, cinnamon is added to cookies, French rolls, and rolls. IN eastern countries Ceylon spice is included in many main dishes.

Cinnamon is also used when preparing red meat, adding it 10 minutes before it is ready.

The seasoning is used in both winter (cocoa, coffee, tea) drinks and summer drinks (cocktail, jelly, compote, cider, smoothies).

3. The beneficial properties of cinnamon make it effective. with high blood pressure. To improve the condition of a patient with hypertension, you should consume the aromatic powder 2 times a day, 1 teaspoon, throwing it into kefir or yogurt.

4. For low blood pressure, tachycardia, and also for problems with erection in men, take 2-3 drops of spice essential oil along with water. You can add honey or jam to the mixture. Drink a quarter glass of the product at least 4 times a day.

5. Cinnamon is good for the human body. It can improve your general condition and lift your spirits. Therefore, often cinnamon used in aromatherapy.

6. Spice is applied for headaches. It is rubbed on the temples and forehead.

7. Cinnamon can improve heart function, lower cholesterol and even prevent heart attacks.

To treat and prevent heart diseases, cinnamon is used as a mixture with honey. It is spread on bread and eaten like a sandwich, or diluted with water and drunk.

8. Cinnamon is good for you for arthritis. In this case, take a cup of warm water three times a day, in which honey (1-2 tablespoons) and a pinch of cinnamon are dissolved.

9. Thanks to its beneficial properties, cinnamon has found its use and in the treatment of baldness. In case of hair loss, the roots are lubricated with the following composition: heated olive oil, a spoonful of honey, 1 small spoon of cinnamon. Keep the mask on for 15 minutes, after which everything is washed off with warm water.

10. Spice used in the treatment of skin diseases. A mixture of honey and cinnamon is used to lubricate the affected areas of the skin with eczema, fungus, etc.

To treat acne, use a mixture of 3 tablespoons of honey and a pinch of cinnamon. Apply rashes overnight and wash with lukewarm water in the morning.

11. Cinnamon treats insect bites. A mixture that helps the pain go away in 1-2 minutes: combine 1 part honey and 2 parts water, add a teaspoon of cinnamon. The composition is slowly rubbed into areas that itch.

12. Cinnamon has many health benefits treat hearing loss. The spice is used (in combination with honey) daily, mixing the components in equal proportions.

13. Cinnamon is a substance that fights old age. Regular consumption of tea with honey and cinnamon delays the aging process and charges the body with strength and energy.

14. Aromatic seasoning is used as an additional means in the treatment of diabetes. Spice powder is consumed in the morning (half a teaspoon) to lower blood sugar levels.

15. The beneficial properties of cinnamon allow it to be used as an effective remedy for weakened people. The spice helps you recover after illness or childbirth.

In such cases, a simple method of preparing a healing potion is used: pour boiling water (1 glass) over a cinnamon stick, bring to a boil and let it brew for half an hour. Then the stick is removed and honey is added to the composition. Drink after meals in very small sips.

This composition is considered universal and, with regular use, helps to overcome almost any ailment.

Cinnamon: what are the benefits for the body?

1. The spice improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, helps with constipation and diarrhea, and relieves gas formation.

2. Cinnamon is useful for its ability to remove excess liquid, which makes it possible to use it for kidney diseases.

3. It has the unique property of lowering blood sugar levels. It has been proven that cinnamon contains a substance - polyphenol, which allows the body to more easily absorb insulin.

4. Cinnamon is good for women's health due to its ability to relieve pain during menstruation, increase overall tone, and relieve irritability.

5. Representatives of the stronger sex can also appreciate the benefits of cinnamon for their body. The spice has a stimulating effect and has a positive effect on male strength.

6. Cinnamon is extremely beneficial for older people. Regular use of the seasoning as an addition to dishes or tea can strengthen the heart muscle and bring blood pressure back to normal.

7. The aromatic bark of the Asian tree helps with arthritis. It relieves pain and allows you to gain ease of movement.

8. Cinnamon has a beneficial effect on the brain. It is effective for multiple sclerosis, insomnia, and depression.

9. Cinnamon is good for the body during flu or cold. Aromatic drinks with added spice relieve headaches, increase sweating, and promote faster recovery.

10. Cinnamon helps strengthen the immune system, which, in turn, helps defeat the disease.

In order for the Malaysian spice to really bring benefits, you need to choose it correctly:

When purchasing, pay attention to product color. Real ground cinnamon is light brown (occasionally slightly yellow). But low-quality ground spice - Cassia is always red or brownish-brown in color.

Good cinnamon, when interacting with iodine, gives a slightly blue reaction, and ground powder of dubious origin always turns dark blue.

High quality cinnamon sticks easy to distinguish from the Chinese counterpart- Cassia. Ceylon sticks are more fragile and crumble more easily. They have a dark reddish hue and a bitter-tart taste.

Cassius sticks are difficult to grind. They are thicker than natural cinnamon tree bark.

Cinnamon: what is harmful to health?

The harm of cinnamon lies in its excessive consumption. Many people think that it is useful when there is a lot. Like any substance, cinnamon should be taken wisely, strictly adhering to culinary or medicinal recipes.

The spice should be used with caution by people suffering from stomach ulcers or gastritis. The fact is that cinnamon can irritate the walls of the stomach.

She has strong effect on the liver and kidneys. Therefore, the use of cinnamon in case of diseases of these organs should be limited.

To summarize, we can confidently say that cinnamon has more benefits than harm. It's all about quantity.

Cinnamon for children: good or bad?

Due to its rich composition, cinnamon is beneficial for older children. A small amount of spices per day (2-3 pinches in the drink) improves concentration, strengthens vision, has a beneficial effect on memory, and relieves fatigue.

Cinnamon is good for baby's digestion. It improves appetite and prevents diarrhea.

But spice is contraindicated for children under 3 years of age. In addition, children with asthma should absolutely not consume cinnamon.

Cinnamon: harm and benefits for weight loss

Cinnamon can not only improve the taste of dishes and help treat existing diseases. She is a good assistant for those who want to lose weight.

In order to lose weight, you need to add spice to various dishes (up to half a small spoon per meal). Cinnamon is good for the health of those losing weight. It normalizes metabolism, improves digestion, and allows all organs to work harmoniously.

The harm of cinnamon when losing weight lies in its unreasonable use. You can usefully add healing powder to your favorite baked goods “for business” and, of course, not get any results. And all because cinnamon increases the calorie content of any flour product.

Cinnamon is able to remove waste and toxins from the body, as well as dull the feeling of hunger. But it must be used as a supplement to dietary nutrition.

The benefits of cinnamon - an “overseas miracle” - are invaluable. The aromatic taste of your favorite dishes and the smell of freshly brewed coffee with cinnamon gives you a good mood, increases your vitality, and allows you to look into the future with joy.

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Cinnamon: health benefits and harm. Beneficial properties of cinnamon and contraindications

There have been many rumors about an ancient spice called cinnamon. This brown aromatic bark, similar to a cigar, was described as horror stories. For a long time it was impossible to find out the truth about cinnamon. What is it, where does it come from and how is it mined? These questions have long been a mystery to mere mortals. Cinnamon, the benefits and harms of which were not studied in ancient times, was considered a valuable gift that was presented to royalty on a par with silver and gold.

Sweet smell of legend

In China, 3000 years ago, there lived Shen-Nung-Kwan, an emperor who adored cinnamon. This aromatic spice was also loved by Hatshepsut, the Egyptian queen, who sent entire ships for it. In Rome, cinnamon was used to flavor funeral pyres. Even Nero did not spare a year's supply of cinnamon to bury his wife, whom, according to rumors, he himself killed.

The news about how much cinnamon cost in ancient times, the benefits and harms of which were then unknown to few people, can now only cause surprise. And it cost “only” seven times cheaper than silver. To inflate prices for cinnamon, terrifying rumors were told about its extraction. That the spice is mined in places infested with poisonous reptiles; taken from the huge Arabian rats; stolen from strange birds.

These rumors circulated for a long time. Until, at the beginning of the sixteenth century, a ship from Ceylon arrived at the port of Spain. The ship brought 25 tons of cheap cinnamon. Since then, the market has been saturated and cinnamon has fallen in price.

Although this spice is counterfeited even today. Cinnamon is especially often replaced with cassia, the bark of a related tree. Cassia contains coumarin. This substance reduces blood clotting, which may not be beneficial for everyone.

A fake can be distinguished by its price, which is too low for real cinnamon, and the color of the sticks, which should be a delicate light brown or yellow color. You can also check with a drop of iodine. If iodine is dropped onto real cinnamon powder, it should not change color. And if it's fake, it will turn dark blue.

Varieties of cinnamon

Nowadays they are known different types cinnamon from the bark of the cinnamon tree. The most popular and fragrant is cassia, Chinese cinnamon, its benefits and harms are fifty-fifty. The most expensive and healthy is Ceylon (cinnamon), and the most bitter is Malabar. In our CIS countries, Chinese cinnamon is most common, as it is the cheapest. But other types can also be purchased.

Beneficial features

What's good about cinnamon? The benefits of this spice are always heard. Cinnamon is said to aid digestion, improve appetite, stimulate brain activity and develop memory. According to unverified data, buns sprinkled with cinnamon can turn an ordinary student into a real excellent student. And if you use cinnamon in dietary nutrition, as a seasoning for dishes, the most tasteless vegetarian menu will seem like a delicacy.

Cinnamon gives us all this. Its benefit is that a whole bouquet of useful substances, vitamins (groups K, B, E, beta-carotene), flavonoids and dietary fiber. There are also many microelements: magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese, iron, calcium, etc.

Together, this provides the antioxidant effect of the spice and positive influence on the body, which heals, strengthens the immune system and begins to fight infection on its own. Cinnamon encourages the body to do this; its beneficial properties and contraindications can be considered in different aspects, successfully applied in each specific case.

Cinnamon is also used to treat colds, added to honey and consumed orally. This spice is also included in warming ointments for external use. And it's all cinnamon. Its benefits as a means of improving metabolism are undoubted. It supports diabetics in the fight against high glycemic index.

By taking just half a teaspoon of cinnamon in the morning, you can ensure a stable glucose level throughout the day. Here's how cinnamon can help diabetics. Benefits and harms go side by side in it, as in every medicine, but the benefits still prevail.

Harm or benefit

“Everything is poison and everything is medicine. Only dosage makes medicine poison, and poison medicine.” So said the great alchemist and physician Paracelsus.

Cinnamon has beneficial properties, and it also has contraindications. Cinnamon improves peristaltic contractions of the gastrointestinal tract (this seems to be a good thing), but this may increase the release of gases and cause diarrhea. Cinnamon can also aggravate heartburn and cause allergic skin rashes.

It is forbidden to be taken by pregnant women (it contracts the uterus). Cinnamon can also harm the liver if consumed in large doses. In face masks where one of the ingredients is cinnamon, the application time must be strictly observed. If you get carried away and do not wash off the mask in time, allergic reactions and even skin burns may begin.

Honey and cinnamon

Humanity has long used honey against many diseases. And honey in combination with cinnamon is very healthy. Below are recipes for various ailments that cinnamon treats, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which must be taken into account in each specific case.

How to be treated

Twice a day for weight loss you need to take cinnamon and honey in a ratio of 1/2. For one part cinnamon, take two parts honey. Place a tablespoon of the mixture in a glass of cooled water. Drink a cup.

If you have heart disease, you should eat a piece of bread brushed with a honey-cinnamon mixture every morning. It lowers cholesterol and improves health blood vessels, heals the heart and saves from heart attack.

For arthritis, add one spoon of cinnamon powder and two spoons of honey to a cup of warm water. Drink one cup of the mixture in the morning and one before bed. Regular consumption cures any arthritis.

For high cholesterol, add two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of cinnamon to two glasses of warm water. Use during the day in three doses.

To strengthen hair: heat three tablespoons of olive oil, add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a tablespoon of honey. Mix well and rub into hair for half an hour. Then wash your hair. Frequent use makes hair roots stronger.

Treatment of wounds and infections: mix cinnamon and honey in equal parts. Lubricate problem areas until complete healing.

Acne: mix a teaspoon of cinnamon and three tablespoons of honey. Apply to pimples before bed and wash off in the morning.

Gastrointestinal disorders: cinnamon and honey relieve pain symptoms and heal ulcers.

If your hearing is impaired, taking cinnamon and honey gradually improves it.

For colds: a tablespoon of honey and a quarter spoon of cinnamon, washed down with warm water. Take three times a day. Cures cough, runny nose, relieves colds.

Cinnamon. Reviews. Questions

-Where do you add cinnamon? In juice, cottage cheese, various desserts, coffee and cakes.

– Is it added to meat dishes? Yes. It goes well with chicken, lamb, and pork. But they also put cinnamon in fruit fillings for pies. In pies, its aroma is immediately noticeable. Add it to porridge, jam and sauces.

– Is cinnamon harmful? Everything is good in moderation.

– Is ground cinnamon beneficial or harmful? The benefits and harms of cinnamon powder are exactly the same as those of regular cinnamon sticks. Her faction does not play a role here.

Cinnamon - benefits and harm

Cinnamon, as a spice, is very beneficial for humans. But, despite the fact that the benefits brought by cinnamon to the body are great, there are some contraindications to the use of the spice. Let's find out what experts think about the benefits and harms of cinnamon for the body.

The health benefits and harms of cinnamon

The beneficial qualities of cinnamon have been known for a long time. Both in modern cosmetology and in folk medicine, the wonderful properties of the spice find their application. Cinnamon is rich in substances necessary for the human body. The spices include:

• macro- and microelements (including magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, iron);
• vitamins (A, C, E, K, PP, group B);
• essential oils;
• tannins;
• alimentary fiber.

It is thanks to the combination of components that cinnamon has a beneficial effect on the course of many physiological processes:

• helps strengthen the immune system;
• helps fight infections;
• accelerates metabolic processes;
• stimulates brain activity;
• invigorates.

But cinnamon is not always good for the body, and can sometimes be harmful.

The main contraindication to consuming cinnamon is individual intolerance. If you show signs of an allergy to an aromatic seasoning, you should stop taking it once and for all.

When else should you take cinnamon cautiously?

Diabetic patients, consuming food with the popular spice, achieve a noticeable reduction in blood sugar levels. The polyphenol contained in cinnamon helps in the absorption of insulin. At the same time, you should know that you should not thoughtlessly try all the remedies offered by traditional medicine. For example, when taking cinnamon with honey for diabetes, there will be more harm than good, since the sweet product consists of almost 80% carbohydrates (sucrose, fructose, glucose).

The spice has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, strengthens the muscle tissue of the heart, and improves blood microcirculation. Also, the substances contained in cinnamon reduce cholesterol levels, thus preventing blockage of blood vessels and reducing the risk of heart attacks. At the same time, cinnamon, along with its benefits, can cause harm: in case of hypertension, it provokes a rise in blood pressure. Doctors do not recommend drinking cinnamon products when your temperature rises.

The aromatic spice activates the gastrointestinal tract, helps cleanse the liver and choleretic system, removing decay products. But the same cinnamon, in addition to its benefits, can cause harm to the liver. The coumarin contained in the seasoning is one of the substances that is conditionally harmful to humans. Entering the body in large quantities, it can cause disruption of the liver, and in some cases cause headaches. Chinese cinnamon contains especially a lot of coumarin. In this regard, when treating, preference should be given to other types of spices, for example, Ceylon cinnamon. In its pure form, the spice irritates the walls of the stomach, and therefore it should not be consumed by patients with gastritis and stomach ulcers.

The benefits and harms of cinnamon for women

Special mention should be made of the benefits and harms of cinnamon for a woman’s body. Traditional medicine with spices reduces pain during the postmenstrual period. Many ladies will be interested to know that spice helps convert sugar into energy. And this property of cinnamon is used by those who want to lose excess weight. But it is better not to use cinnamon for pregnant women, as it can cause miscarriage. But nursing mothers are recommended to drink tea with cinnamon and milk to improve lactation. In addition, in the first weeks after childbirth, consumption of cinnamon compounds leads to contractions of the uterus, and this speeds up the recovery of the female body.

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Cinnamon: benefits and harm for the human body

Mankind has known about an amazing plant called cinnamon, the benefits and harms of which still cause controversy in scientific circles, for a long time. In neighboring countries, the spice was used to treat colds. And in ancient China, cinnamon was used to drive out evil spirits from homes. Nowadays, the demand for this oriental spice has reached unprecedented heights. Cooking, perfumery, cosmetology, medicine - these are only a small part of the areas of application of cinnamon.

Cinnamon: benefits and harm

Most housewives know and love cinnamon as an aromatic additive for baking, homemade alcoholic and strong drinks, various fruit desserts and chocolate. Cinnamon effectively fights the growth of bacteria in ready-made dishes, which contributes to their shelf life. The use of this spice in various marinades for pork is also not without reason - cinnamon can even cope with E. coli.

Coffee, tea and kefir with cinnamon

Gourmets will appreciate the benefits that coffee with the addition of cinnamon has on the body. But don't indulge in this coffee drink too often - it harms the heart and increases blood pressure.

The beneficial properties of cinnamon are especially widely used in medicine:

• traditional healers use decoctions with the addition of cinnamon to treat colon cancer;
• cinnamon tea is very useful for colds, as it has an anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect;
• a pinch of cinnamon promotes active brain activity, improved visual perception and concentration; these properties can be beneficially used by schoolchildren and students;
• for people suffering from changes in blood pressure, kefir with cinnamon will be useful, but it should be used with caution, since such a cocktail has side effects in the form of cleansing the intestines and can be harmful;
• cinnamon is included in many medicinal ointments as an anesthetic and warming agent;
• relieves spasms during attacks of rheumatism;
• cinnamon can improve mood, relieve neurosis and depressive disorders;
• Cinnamon dishes are very useful for digestive system: they normalize the production of gastric secretion, improve digestion and promote a healthy appetite;
• Cinnamon is indispensable for people suffering from diabetes: moderate consumption of the spice promotes better absorption of insulin and normalization of sugar;
• A pinch of ground cinnamon will remove bad breath.

The use of cinnamon in cosmetology

The spice occupies a special place in cosmetology. It can often be found in various creams, hair conditioners and shampoos. Cinnamon has the following effects on skin and hair:

• enhances accelerated hair growth by increasing blood circulation;
• prevents hair loss due to strengthening of hair follicles;
• helps improve skin color, giving it a healthy natural glow.

How does cinnamon affect a woman’s body?

Cinnamon has a particularly beneficial effect on a woman’s body, and this is not only cosmetic products based on it. Homemade teas and infusions of cinnamon help painlessly cope with premenstrual syndrome. However, do not overdo it with such drinks, as their excessive consumption can harm the body and lead to a complete loss of vitality.

Honey and cinnamon are used for weight loss. The spice is also included in various homemade anti-cellulite scrubs and body masks.

Who is harmed by cinnamon?

Despite the many medicinal properties, this spice is far from perfect. For example, excessive consumption of cinnamon can cause severe headaches and liver dysfunction. Doctors do not recommend consuming this spice for people of the following categories:

• pregnant women, especially in the first trimester, as well as nursing mothers;
• in the presence of poor blood clotting and possible bleeding;
• people with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

And recent scientific studies have proven that coumarin, which is part of cinnamon, can lead to the occurrence and development of hepatitis.

To avoid harmful various reactions of the body to the use of seemingly healthy ground cinnamon, doctors advise not to exceed the norm of 1 tsp. seasonings per day.

Let's look at some healthy cinnamon-based recipes.

Healthy recipe for weight loss: cinnamon with honey

Compound:

• 2 tbsp. hot water;
• 1 tbsp. l. ground cinnamon;
• 2 tbsp. l. honey

Preparation and use:

1. First, we need to infuse the cinnamon: to do this, pour boiling water over it, cover with a lid and leave to “rest” for 30 minutes.
2. After this, filter the solution through gauze folded in 4-5 layers and cool.
3. Add to the cooled broth Bee Honey and stir well.
4. You should take the tincture on an empty stomach after and before bedtime, ½ tbsp.
5. The course of treatment lasts up to 2 weeks, after which, in order not to harm the stomach, a break is taken for 2-3 weeks.

Cinnamon mask to fight acne

Compound:

• 3 tbsp. l. liquid honey;
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon.

Preparation and use:

1. Preparing the mask is very simple - you just need to thoroughly mix all the ingredients.
2. To treat acne, it is recommended to lubricate each pimple with a mask and leave it on the face until the morning.
3. When you wake up, wash your face with warm water and wipe your face with peroxide.
4. Surprisingly, after 2 weeks of such procedures, acne on the face completely disappears.

Compress with ground cinnamon and honey for sore throat

Compound:

• 1/3 tbsp. liquid honey;
• 3-4 tbsp. l. ground cinnamon;
• 1 tbsp. l. ginger

Preparation and use:

1. For a compress you will need to get a piece of woolen fabric. Regular wool scarves work well for these purposes.
2. Apply honey to the fabric in a fairly thin layer, and generously sprinkle ground cinnamon and ginger on top.
3. Apply a compress to the neck for a sore throat and leave for 2 hours.

Alcohol tincture with cinnamon

Compound:

• 3 tbsp. l. ground cinnamon;
• 2 tbsp. 70% alcohol.

Preparation and use:

1. To prepare the tincture, we need a clean bottle or glass jar.
2. Pour cinnamon into the bottom of the vessel and fill it with alcohol, close the lid tightly and, shaking vigorously, mix the contents.
3. We put the bottle in a dark, cool place for a week, and do not forget to shake the tincture once a day.
4. After 7 days, filter the contents of the bottle through gauze folded in 5-6 layers.
5. Alcohol tincture is used for increased flatulence, disturbances of appetite and the functioning of the digestive tract.
6. The course of treatment is 7-14 days, 30 drops each time before meals.

In conclusion, I would like to remind you that despite the huge list of medicinal properties and the wide scope of application of cinnamon, there will be benefits if you use it in moderation. Accustom your relatives to the appearance of this spice in the diet gradually. First, add a pinch to your favorite treats and baked goods, and a little later - to tea or coffee. Over time, everyone will love the pleasant sweet-tart taste.

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Ceylon cinnamon (true, noble or real cinnamon) is an aromatic spice known everywhere. For some, its aroma reminds them of their mother’s apple pie, while for others it is a storehouse of beneficial properties.

Cultivated mainly on the island. Sri Lanka. The spice is obtained from the bark of the cinnamonum tree ( Cinnamonum). When dry, strips of bark curl into tubes. These are the same cinnamon sticks that we use in the kitchen.

Was popular back in Ancient Egypt, was considered a rare gift, available only to rulers and their entourage. Only the most influential Egyptian women had secret cinnamon-based beauty recipes for the face and hair.

It’s not for nothing that Ceylon cinnamon is called “true” or “real.” So, for example, its cheaper relative - cassia (Chinese cinnamon) contains coumarin- toxic chemical.

Unlike the Chinese “fake”, the real spice looks like thick paper rolled into a hollow roll.

Medicinal properties

The specific taste and aroma of this spice attracts not only fans of gourmet cooking, but also those who care about their health.

Just one teaspoon of ground cinnamon contains as many antioxidants as half a cup of blueberries. It is equally useful for both men and women. But before use, it is important to make sure that cinnamon is not contraindicated for you.

1. The spice is rich in antioxidants - polyphenols. One recent study tested 26 spices for their antioxidant properties. Cinnamon won, ahead of such leaders as and.
2. The spice has the property of increasing the body's resistance to insulin. Cinnamon is recommended for people with type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Just 1 g per day has a beneficial effect on blood markers.
3. Anti-inflammatory properties: fights infections and restores damaged tissues due to the active component - cinnamaldehyde. The oil is used in the treatment of respiratory tract infections caused by fungi. The spice prevents the growth of bacteria: listeria and salmonella.
4. The spice minimizes the risk of heart disease by reducing “bad” cholesterol. For the effect, 120 mg per day is enough.
5. Compounds in cinnamon reduce storage capacity in the brain tau protein- a biomarker of Alzheimer's disease. In the body of a person suffering from shaking paralysis (Parkinson's disease), the spice normalizes the level of neurotransmitters, improves motor functions and protects neurons from destruction.
6. Reduces the growth of cancer cells and causes their death. Cinnamon is toxic to malignant tumors.
7. Antiviral properties: fights the most common strain of the HIV virus. In a scientific experiment, out of 69 medicinal plants tested, it was cinnamon that showed the best results.
8. For irritable bowel syndrome, it eliminates discomfort in the stomach and intestines. Useful for bloating. Kills bacteria and treats gastrointestinal infections.
9. For arthritis and osteoporosis, a cup of cinnamon tea and a massage with cinnamon oil can relieve pain.
10. Antibacterial properties: eliminates harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, without damaging the teeth and gums. Cinnamon oil is added to chewing gum, toothpastes and rinses.
11. At the onset of a cold, it is recommended to eat a little cinnamon. It can stop the oncoming disease. The secret is in the antiviral and warming properties of the spice.
12. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women manifests itself in mood swings and painful sensations. Doctors have found a relationship with a deficiency of manganese, calcium, chromium and copper in the blood. Cinnamon contains all of these elements.
13. Impotence or erectile dysfunction in men is caused by: lack of self-confidence, cardiovascular diseases, stress, diabetes and high pressure. According to real reviews from men, this healthy seasoning helped them cope with the physiological problems on this list.

For weight loss

Dietary Effects of True Cinnamon Confirmed scientific research. Include this spice in your diet, and the results will not be long in coming.

• The composition includes natural esters that promote weight loss: cinnamaldehyde(key component of cinnamon oil), eugenol And hydroxycinnamaldehyde.
• The flavonoid proanthocyanidin improves the condition of patients with type II diabetes. This plant polyphenol stimulates insulin receptors in adipocytes (fat cells).
• Zinnzeilanin And cinnceylanol improve appetite, normalize the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, promotes the breakdown of fats.
• Increases insulin activity in the body. Even for people who do not have diabetes, high sugar in the blood is a serious problem leading to obesity.

Fact: Including cinnamon in your diet reduces the glycemic index (GI) of your food by 18-29%. This is a good incentive to lose weight.

• Accelerates metabolism, including carbohydrates, preventing their conversion into fat. Dishes seasoned with cinnamon help you burn more calories.
• Abdominal or abdominal fat is the first thing that catches your eye when you see an overweight person. But much more dangerous is the one that surrounds our internal organs - the visceral one. By consuming cinnamon regularly, you force your body to burn it first.
• Slows down digestive processes. This important property for those who are trying to lose weight. With the support of spice, it is easier to endure until the next meal without additional snacks.

Interesting! Nutritionists say that dried cinnamonum bark reduces cravings for sweets.

Accelerates lipogenesis

During studies of lipogenesis processes, mouse fat cells are often used as a basis. Laboratory animals fed cinnamon were able to lose weight despite eating a fat-rich diet.

From Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry: Cinnamaldehyde, which is part of cinnamon, activates special enzymes. They, in turn, stop the accumulation of excess fat in the body.

From cholesterol and sugar

The spice can reduce the concentration of cholesterol and sugar in the blood.

From journal "Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics": Ceylon cinnamon increases sensitivity to insulin, stopping the accumulation of white adipose tissue (the culprit of extra inches and cellulite).

How to use

Here are some simple diet recipes:

• Add 1 tsp. ground spice to oatmeal, in muesli and yogurt.
• Mix cinnamon, honey and hot water and drink instead of tea throughout the day.
• Black tea and coffee, fruit juices and protein shakes will taste better with this seasoning.
• Combines with fresh fruits, nuts and seeds.
• Freeze cinnamon in ice cubes to add extra flavor to your favorite drinks.
• Sprinkle the ground seasoning over fresh fruit.
• A pinch in a stew, bean soup, or vegetarian chili sauce won't hurt.

Use in everyday life

Insect repellent: antimicrobial properties Cinnamon oils are used to exterminate ants, bedbugs, ticks, cockroaches and mosquitoes.

Disinfection: Oil diluted in water can be used to treat kitchen surfaces, sinks, refrigerators, door handles, toys and much more. This is true if the family has children or people with allergies who react poorly to household chemicals.

Food preservative: the spice prevents the growth of bacteria. That is why it is used in almost every dish in hot Asian countries.

Neutralizes odors: Cinnamon leaf oil not only masks unpleasant odors, but kills the bacteria that cause them.

Benefits for hair

In Sri Lanka, the spice has been used in traditional medicine and aromatherapy recipes for centuries.

Has antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial effects on the scalp, improves hair condition. Regular massage of cinnamon oil on the scalp, neck and temples causes blood flow to the follicles, thereby stimulating hair growth.

Combine 2 tbsp. l. honey, 2 tsp. ground cinnamon and... Stir until paste-like. Rub into scalp, apply evenly to hair and leave for 15 minutes. Rinse your hair with shampoo. Preheating the oil will increase the effectiveness of the procedure.

like this homemade mask can be done once a week.

We lose on average up to 100 hairs per day, but we usually don’t even notice it. Intensive hair loss begins with health problems. The undeniable advantage of cinnamon is that it affects the hair both from the inside and outside.

Use not only ground spices, but also natural oil. It contains substances beneficial for hair: eugenol And cinnamaldehyde, endowed with antifungal and antibacterial properties. Suitable for treating dry and brittle hair as it nourishes hair follicles. The roots become stronger and hair loss is reduced.

Side effects and contraindications

Cinnamon contains a large amount of natural estrogens. Therefore, it is contraindicated during pregnancy, in the presence of a history of endocrine and oncological diseases, for example, breast cancer.

Due to the digestive stimulating properties of the seasoning People with peptic ulcers should be careful.

If you have diabetes, consult your doctor before adding spices to your menu.

Side effects:

1. Toxicity. Upper limit safe dosage: 6 g per day for 6 weeks.
2. Premature birth. During pregnancy, the spice is contraindicated, as it can cause uterine contractions or even premature birth.
3. Harm to the liver. The high levels of coumarin in Chinese cinnamon can lead to liver failure if taken daily or in large doses.
4. Allergy. A runny nose, watery eyes, difficulty breathing, upset stomach, swelling of the face or hands, anaphylactic shock and nausea are the main symptoms. If you are allergic to cinnamon, taking it in any quantity is contraindicated.
5. In rare cases or in case of overdose increases heart rate.
6. Thins the blood, such as aspirin.

Cinnamon can be a wonderful assistant in the fight for health and longevity for men and women of any age, especially if you like fatty and high-calorie foods - they summarize the results of their research University of Pennsylvania employees.

Cinnamon has been known to mankind for a huge amount of time, since biblical times. The main suppliers of spices are India and Sri Lanka. Two types of cinnamon are very popular: Cassia (Chinese) and Ceylon. The first option is fake cinnamon, which is the bark of a related tree. The second option is high-quality sweet-tasting cinnamon.

Cinnamon is obtained in this way: first, the bark is removed from the tree only during the rainy season. Next, it is crushed and cinnamon sticks are obtained.

How to select and store?

If you choose cinnamon sticks, then give preference to options no more than 7 mm thick and about 10 cm long. Their surface should be rough. High-quality cinnamon has excellent processing, that is, it should not have stains, cracks or other damage (see photo). The edges of the cinnamon sticks should be evenly trimmed and curled. Ceylon cinnamon is a paler brown color and has a powerful aroma. The distinctive features of this variety include its fragility, since it is extracted from the inner layer of the bark. Cassia cinnamon has a darker color with a red tint. Its smell has a pronounced bitterish note. This spice has thicker sticks that are very difficult to grind.

If you buy packaged cinnamon, be sure to look at the name of the plant or the country of origin. Remember that Ceylon comes to us only from India and Sri Lanka. Also pay attention to the price; high-quality cinnamon is much more expensive than its analogue.

Keep in mind that cinnamon, like other spices, loses its taste and aroma characteristics over time. Place the sticks in an airtight container, which you place in a cool place away from direct contact. sun rays. In this case, the cinnamon will remain fresh for 5 years. Ground spice will remain fresh for 3 years.

Beneficial features

The benefits of cinnamon have been proven through experiments. Scientists have proven that the spice has the ability to normalize blood sugar levels, which is important for people with diabetes. Do not forget about the permissible amount, for diabetics it is 1 teaspoon per day. Cinnamon contains calcium and dietary fiber, which are necessary for normal operation cardiovascular system, which helps reduce the risk of developing heart problems.

Doctors recommend consuming cinnamon for women, as it reduces pain during menstruation. It has been proven that dishes that contain spices are digested in the stomach much faster and easier. It is recommended to include cinnamon in your diet for people with flatulence, as it gets rid of excess gas.

The spice is an excellent preventative for getting rid of headaches and migraines. It improves blood circulation, which increases the supply of oxygen to cells. It is recommended to use cinnamon for cooking for people who are prone to problems with the urinary system.

It has been experimentally proven that the spice has the ability to stimulate brain activity. Cinnamon helps normalize blood cholesterol levels, which in turn reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis. The spice also cleanses the liver and gall bladder.

Use in cosmetology

Not many people know that the beneficial properties of cinnamon can be used for cosmetic purposes. Remember that spices must be used in cosmetics strictly according to the recipe, since exaggerating the norm can lead to serious problems. Cinnamon has the ability to improve complexion, as well as blood circulation and cellular metabolism. These properties of the spice determine its use as a rejuvenating agent. Cinnamon is a component of masks that help cope with sagging and dull skin. The spice has a restorative effect, so it can be used to remove scars and spots that remain after acne and blackheads. With the spice, you can prepare a cleansing tonic, a tightening mask, etc. Monitor your sensations; if you feel a burning sensation or other discomfort, immediately wash off the cosmetics and do not use them again.

Cinnamon is used in cosmetics for hair care. Due to the fact that the spice increases blood circulation in the scalp, hair becomes stronger and grows better. It is also worth noting that cinnamon is an effective remedy in the fight against cellulite. The spice is used for wraps and massages.

Benefits of cinnamon and treatment

Cinnamon is used in a variety of recipes to help cope with various problems. The spice helps get rid of cold symptoms, or more precisely, cough. The spice has antibacterial and antiviral effects. Cinnamon can be used to treat not only internal but also external infections.

The spice has the ability to get rid of bad breath as it has antibacterial properties. To maintain fresh breath throughout the day, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with a solution of honey and cinnamon every morning.

The spice helps relieve coughs as it acts as an expectorant. Cinnamon acts as a pain reliever; with its help you can cope with antispasmodic, dental and other pain. Cinnamon extract has the ability to kill or reduce the growth of a large number of bacteria.

Use in cooking

Cinnamon is a popular spice that is used in recipes for a variety of dishes. It goes well with apples, pears and chocolate. Many people like to add spice to their coffee. Cinnamon is an excellent flavoring agent for various drinks, marinades, sauces, baked goods and desserts. The spice is used to improve the taste of fruit salads, cottage cheese products, etc. Many people like to add cinnamon to milk soups, pancakes and pancakes. The spice can also diversify the taste of meat, fish and vegetable dishes.

Harm of cinnamon and contraindications

Cinnamon can be harmful if you have an individual intolerance to the product. It is not recommended to overuse the spice, as it will irritate the gastric mucosa. People with ulcers or increased intestinal sensitivity should avoid cinnamon or reduce its consumption to a minimum. It is worth controlling the amount of cinnamon consumed if you have heart problems and high blood pressure.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exclude the spice from their diet, as it provokes uterine contractions, which can lead to miscarriage. Cinnamon contains toxic coumarin, which in large quantities has a bad effect on the liver and kidneys. It is not recommended to use the spice when treating with medications.

• The valuable brown substance aldehyde contained in the spice prevents the formation of blood clots.
• Studies have shown that cinnamon helps stabilize blood sugar levels and helps in healing diabetes mellitus. Add spice to main dishes or drinks (tea, coffee, kefir). The permissible dose for diabetics is no more than one teaspoon per day.
• The fiber and calcium contained in the spice strengthen the cardiovascular system, thereby protecting the body from heart disease.
• The spice can be removed bad smell from mouth. To do this, chew a small piece of spice. To keep your breath fresh throughout the day, make it a habit to gargle every morning with a warm solution of honey and cinnamon. Take the ingredients one teaspoon at a time and dissolve in a glass of water.
• It is useful for reducing cold symptoms and for easing breathing in chronic coughs. For severe coughing attacks, mix 1/2 teaspoon of spice with one tablespoon of honey and take for 4-5 days. Or dissolve a teaspoon of spice in one liter of boiling water, add a little black pepper, honey (to taste) and drink every 4 hours.
• Due to its antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, the spice is recommended for the treatment of external and internal infections. When added to food, cinnamon prevents the proliferation and growth of bacteria in food. Doctors have long paid attention to the healing properties of cinnamon and recommend it as an antiseptic.
• Gynecologists recommend that women take the spice to relieve pain during the menstrual cycle.
• By adding spice to food, you not only add flavor to the food, but also help the stomach digest it. Cinnamon is useful for people suffering from flatulence to remove gas from the stomach and intestines. Add about 1/4 teaspoon of spice to each dish.
• It also relieves acidity, diarrhea and morning sickness. Effective for indigestion, diarrhea and vomiting.
• Consumption of the seasoning will serve as a good prophylactic for reducing attacks of headaches and migraines. The spice promotes good blood circulation in the vessels, and this is a necessary condition for saturating the body's cells with oxygen and other nutrients.
• The spice is useful for people who are prone to developing infections. urinary tract. The spice is a diuretic and helps in the secretion and elimination of urine.

There are only 35 calories in 10 grams of cinnamon powder, and 10 calories in a 4 gram stick.

The smell of cinnamon

Cinnamon oil is extracted from the bark and leaves of a tree in the bay family. Its intense, sweet, warm and spicy aroma is sensual and interesting. It also encourages creativity and stimulates the world of dreams.

The spice increases brain activity. Research has shown that the scent of cinnamon can significantly enhance cognitive memory, alertness and concentration. Cinnamon essential oils give a feeling of warmth, eliminate anxiety and restlessness.

Delicious and no calories Tips for those with a sweet tooth: how not to gain weight from ice cream. Can I eat it for breakfast or dinner?

Contraindications and harms of cinnamon

• Despite all the medicinal properties of cinnamon, the spice should not be taken with spoons; it irritates the stomach. People who suffer from stomach ulcers and have increased intestinal sensitivity should drink cinnamon in limited quantities.
• To those who diseased heart and high blood pressure, doctors do not recommend drinking cinnamon often or in large quantities. The spice increases heart rate and tends to increase blood pressure.
• Cinnamon should not be taken during pregnancy or nursing mothers. The spice causes uterine contractions and can cause miscarriage.
• The spice contains toxic coumarin, which, in large quantities, negatively affects the liver and kidneys. So, don't try to treat it with spoons. This is especially true for people with diseased kidneys and liver; the healing properties of cinnamon are not for you.
• You should refrain from taking the spice during treatment with medications. The spice has natural antibiotic properties and, interacting with the medicine, modifies it.
• Cinnamon is contraindicated for children under 3 years of age.

Storage

The spice should be stored in a glass container, tightly closed and preferably away from light and moisture.

In a dry, cool, dark place, the spice will retain its medicinal properties for six months, and cinnamon sticks for up to a year.

A spice that has lost its exquisite sweet smell and has lost its freshness does more harm than good. Feel free to throw this spice in the trash.

• Only Ceylon cinnamon has medicinal properties! Cassia, in large quantities, harms the liver and kidneys!