Herb Profile: Cinnamon
Sweet, spicy, and warming, cinnamon is a delicious herb that packs a powerful punch in knocking out colds, congestion, and menstrual cramps. Find out why it’s also a great travel companion.
Sprinkled into oatmeal, baked into morning rolls, or simmered into hot apple cider, the smell of cinnamon in many popular dishes is unmistakable. It conjures up memories of pumpkin pie and a perfectly spiced chai. Beyond being an herb that tastes delicious, cinnamon proves to be a powerful medicine in treating many common ailments. Similar to ginger, it has a reputation for being a universal medicine. Thankfully it’s a pantry staple in most household kitchens! Almost anyone can take cinnamon, and it’s flavor is appealing to most people. Contraindications for use are large amounts of it , taken over long periods of time, especially during pregnancy. Powdered or in small chips, use 1/8 tsp to 1 tsp daily in tea. Start with the smallest amount, and take note of effects before increasing the dosage.
Cinnamon provides relief from menstrual cramps, as it is a muscle relaxant. Start taking the day before the period starts or as soon as pain begins.
Treat a cold with cinnamon – it counteracts congestion while warming the body and increasing circulation, promoting overall healing and cleansing. Pair it with ginger, another powerful herb for treating colds. Mix 1/4 tsp of each herb and steep in hot water 10-15 minutes. Sweeten with honey, especially in cases of congestion as honey will help dry up the mucus.
Cinnamon as an anti-bacterial agent – add it to food while traveling to kill any potential bacteria. Studies have shown it to reduce bacteria in contaminated food by over 99%!
Mouth-rinse or toothpaste – with the antibacterial properties listed above, it makes sense to use it to kill germs in the mouth as well.
Control blood sugar levels – USDA scientists noted that cinnamon reduced the amount of insulin needed for glucose metabolism.
Source: Khalsa, Karta Purkh Singh and Michael Tierra. The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs. Twin Lakes: Lotus Press, 2008.
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical care. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Herbs are intended to support general well being. If conditions persist, visit your doctor.