The cinnamon it is one of the most famous oriental spices. His beneficial effects for health were already known in the Far East as early as 2700 BC Traditional Chinese Medicine it is considered an excellent digestive and a natural remedy against cold e menstrual cramps.
This aromatic spice is mentioned even in the Bible, precisely in the book of Exodus. The Egyptians used it in the form of essential oil, useful for the embalming process. Instead, the Greeks and Romans preferred it for its aphrodisiac effect.
The main beneficial properties
What are its beneficial properties for the health of our body? Here are the most important ones:
- Natural remedy for cough and cold: cinnamon fights inflammation of the respiratory tract, typical of winter ailments;
- Muscle relaxant: rich in anti-inflammatory properties, this spice helps relieve cramps especially in case of menstrual pain, so much so that it is an excellent palliative;
- Ally against diabetes: allows you to check blood glucose levels. Cinnamon is a valuable aid, especially for those suffering from type 2 diabetes as it allows you to avoid the spike in blood sugar and the subsequent fall;
- Counteracts skin aging: acts on the epidermis, protecting it from the activity of free radicals and keeping the skin supple and young. Its antibacterial and anti-microbial properties are also vital for treating acne;
- Helps to lose weight: cinnamon, together with honey, is suitable for those who want to lose extra pounds. In this regard, it is possible to consume a cinnamon and honey tea in the morning or before going to bed;
- Enhance male fertility: containing a natural substance called cinnamaldehyde which is able to increase the hormone progesterone, this particular spice is able to decrease the production of testosterone in women helping to balance hormones;
- Improve cognitive skills: its aroma and flavor act as a cognitive stimulant. Valid help to enhance memory, it is excellent for preventing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Uses and contraindications
Powdered cinnamon is very popular, which can be easily added to any hot drink, tea or herbal tea compared to sticks, which are visually more appealing but less practical to use. Replacing sugar when drinking coffee is a healthy daily habit. Thanks to its sweet taste, the coffee would be tastier and its flavor enhanced. Furthermore this ritual is an ally for the Slimming diet, since it allows you to consume fewer calories during meals.
Cinnamon is excellent energizing if taken for breakfast, it is perfect for filling up on useful energy to be spent throughout the day. Consumed in the evening in preparations or herbal teas, on the other hand, it has a relaxing effect on the body and can help to reconcile sleep and a restful rest.
However, there are also some contraindications, important to always keep in mind before using them. An exaggerated consumption of cinnamon can cause disturbances and serious damage to our body due to curarina, one of the substances found in this spice that can cause kidney and liver damage. In case of problems with these two organs or previous pathologies it is therefore better to avoid it or, possibly, to ask your doctor for an opinion.
On the skin, however, in case of hypersensitivity it can trigger allergic reactions, while a overdose it can cause excessive sweating, a problem that can progress to episodes of tachycardia. Much attention should be paid by pregnant women: if ingested in quantities greater than those recommended, it can be dangerous as it can stimulate uterine contractions.
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