The fragrant bark of the cinnamon plant has been used since ancient times as a spice, perfume, pesticide and medicine. Folk healers have traditionally viewed cinnamon as a treatment option for diabetes, microbial infections and digestive conditions. This natural, spicy-sweet plant may help treat common health problems and eliminate odors and pests in the home. Avoid exposure to cinnamon bark if you have an allergy to the plant or any of its constituent compounds.
Diabetes Treatment
According to a December 2003 study published in the medical journal "Diabetes Care," cinnamon supplements improve glucose metabolism, blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. More studies are needed to confirm this effect.
Antioxidant Activity
"Future Medicine" reported in 2006 that cinnamon has powerful antioxidant properties. When it is used as a spice or seasoning, it can improve the antioxidant capacity of everyday foods.
Pesticide
Most pests dislike the taste and smell of cinnamon bark. Ants will not cross a line made with powdered cinnamon bark; mice also tend to dislike its scent. Dietitian Leslie Beck recommends cinnamon bark as an alternative to synthetic insect repellents and pesticides.
Potpourri and Perfume
Most people find cinnamon's spicy aroma pleasant. Because of this, cinnamon bark and cinnamon oil are popular components of natural potpourris and perfumes.
Antimicrobial
Leslie Beck reports that compounds in cinnamon have antimicrobial effects. They may help destroy infectious bacteria and viruses. Cinnamon bark is used in natural toothpaste formulas because of its ability to fight the bacteria responsible for dental plaque and tooth decay.
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