Cinnamon, an Ancient Spice which Can Keep you Well Today & Fight Modern Chronic Disease
Cinnamon (botannical name Cinnamomum aromaticum or Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is traditionally a winter spice; this may be due to the amazing effect it has on boosting immunity. This wonderful spice has been used for thousands of years to improve many aspects of health. Recent research shows us it may be more important today than ever. As a bonus, it tastes great too.
Cinnamon helps the immune system work more effectively, so we are better able to resist and fight infections. It has been shown to be antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and combats Candida. Cinnamon prepared in various ways, including as a strong herbal medicine, prevents infections which cause and exacerbate dental caries and infections in the mouth; it is also used in mouthwashes and natural toothpastes.
Cinnamon not only boosts immunity it also helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, so is especially helpful for people who have diabetes, and to help prevent diabetes. Cinnamon has an action like insulin in lowering the blood sugar; and just one teaspoon can reduce blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon also reduces cholesterol. A study found having cinnamon every day for 40 days reduced blood sugar levels, reduced blood fats, reduced overall cholesterol and reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Cinnamon helps reduce inflammation. This is important as inflammation is linked with chronic diseases common in modern times, including heart disease, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 Diabetes, mental health problems, and cancer.
In contrast, sugar increases inflammation. I have found cinnamon helps people avoid sugar. Cinnamon gives the impression of a sweet taste while not actually being sweet at all. It is very easy to include cinnamon every day; put it on porridge, or with fresh fruit, use it to make a hot drink, or add to a brown rice pudding instead of sugar or honey.
As Naturopaths, we use Cinnamon prepared as liquid herbal medicine, as this helps it to be more effective in certain health complaints.
Some forms of Cinnamon, such as Cinnamon cassia should be used with care as high doses can cause problems.
Contact Bay Health Clinic today to find out more about herbal medicine that can be tailored to your personal needs and to book your Naturopathic consultation; call 07 571 3226 or email us: ask@bayhealth.nz
Original Article 20th May 2015
Copyright Jaine Kirtley
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