Health Benefits Of Cinnamon

CINNAMON AND its HEALTH BENEFITS

Cinnamon is one of the most commonly used spices in the world. And it is packed with a multitude of health benefits.  Cinnamon is made from the inner bark of trees. The inner bark is separated from the woody part of the tree and when the inner bark dries it curls up into what is known as cinnamon sticks and then the sticks can be crushed or ground. Its scientific name is Cinnamomum. The distinct smell and flavor of cinnamon is due to the main compound called cinnamaldehyde. It is this compound that is responsible for most of the health properties in cinnamon. There are many different types of cinnamon, but the two main types are Ceylon cinnamon known as “true” cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon the most common one that we see in stores. Here are 5 of the best health benefits cinnamon:

1. ANTIOXIDANTS

Cinnamon is loaded with polyphenols which are some of the most powerful antioxidants. As powerful as even “superfoods” such as oregano and garlic

2. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES

Inflammation is important in the body to help in fight infections and repair tissue. But long-standing inflammation is harmful. That’s one of the ways the antioxidants in cinnamon are helpful, by reducing inflammation

3. LOWERS BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS

Cinnamon can lower blood sugar by decreasing the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream after a meal. It does this by interfering with digestive enzymes which slows the breakdown of carbohydrates. Also, there is a compound in cinnamon that acts on cells by mimicking insulin

4. HELPS FIGHT BACTERAIAL AND FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Cinnamon oil has been known to fight respiratory infections caused by fungi. It can also inhibit the growth of certain bacteria including Salmonella

5. NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES

Cinnamon can help protect neurons, normalize neurotransmitter levels and improve motor function