Dating back to the 2800 BC cinnamon was considered to be one of the most prized spices due to its monopoly by the Egyptians, Dutch and then the English. It was only in the latter part of the 1800s that the monopoly of cinnamon was ended when it was found to be grown in other countries apart from Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Cinnamon is a widely used spice in a wide range of dishes as well as desserts but few know its tremendous health benefits specially in combination with honey.
Arthritis
Even the most chronic of arthritis pain is said to be reduced by the long term and regular use of cinnamon and honey. This was in fact proved in a study done in the Copenhagen University where patients were given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with 1 tablespoon honey before breakfast which reduced the pain considerably in a week and they were able to walk without pain in a month’s time.
Dosage – 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 small teaspoon of cinnamon powder mixed in a glass of warm water.
Cholesterol and Type II Diabetes
Some studies have suggested that cinnamon may improve blood glucose and also the cholesterol levels in people with Type II diabetes as well.
Dosage – Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of cinnamon powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea, when given to a cholesterol patient, have said to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10% within 2 hours.
Colds
Most type of common colds and some severe colds seem to be cured by use of cinnamon and honey.
Dosage – Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon of luke-warm honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days.
Stomach pain and Gas
Cinnamon is considered to be a pain killer due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action and acts almost immediately to relieve abdominal pains caused by gastric and acidity. A combination of honey and cinnamon powder seems to reduce gas in the stomach.
Immune System
Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. An experiment described in the journal of food and science for 1974 demonstrated the power of cinnamon over most yeasts and fungi. And it has also been said in Ayurvedic and Yunani medicine that the constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases.
Indigestion
Cinnamon contains catechins, which are compounds that aid in relieving nausea and the volatile oil in cinnamon bark may help the body to process food faster by breaking down the fats during the process of digestion. Cinnamon powder sprinkled on 2 tablespoons of honey taken before food, relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.
Bad breath
People in South America are said to gargle with cinnamon powder mixed with 1 teaspoon of honey in hot water. They believe this helps to keep bad breath in bay throughout the day.
Caution – Although cinnamon is considered to be beneficial for curing a lot of ailments, it needs to be kept in mind that excessive use of any herb or spice can alter the effect of other medicines; hence, before using any of the above, please consult your physician. Also cinnamon is known to cause allergic reactions in some and also not recommended for pregnant or women who are breastfeeding.
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