Cinnamon is a very popular spice for its culinary and medicinal uses. It is one of the oldest known herbal remedies with written references dating back to Chinese texts written more than 4,000 years, according to "Acupuncture Today." Cinnamon is harvested from the cinnamon tree, which grows in India, China, Brazil Madagascar and the Caribbean. A cinnamon stick is actually a piece of the cinnamon tree's inner bark made into a rolled form. Medicinal uses of cinnamon include digestive support and anti-microbial treatment. Be sure to consult with a practitioner regarding any medicinal uses of cinnamon.
Anti-microbial Benefits
Terpenoids are the active constituents found in the oil of cinnamon responsible for its antimicrobial benefits. When taken as a tea, cinnamon's active compounds coat the mouth and intestinal tract and can remove harmful bacteria and fungi to help restore microbial balance. Additionally, cinnamon is thought to be effective for fighting the bacteria that causes most ulcers called H. pylori, according to the website Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices.
Digestive Support
Cinnamon tea is often used as a carminative, which means it treats gas, indigestion, nausea, intestinal colic and digestive issues associated with colds and other illnesses. Additionally, cinnamon tea relieves vomiting, and due to its mild astringency, it is especially beneficial for treating cases of infantile diarrhea, according to the Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices.
Preparation and Dosage Recommendations
To prepare cinnamon tea, crush a cinnamon stick and place it at the bottom of a tea cup and add boiling water. Steep the tea for 10 to 15 minutes. If more than one cup is desired, the cinnamon can be used until the active constituents and the flavor are no longer present. Cinnamon sticks are available for purchase at most supermarkets and health food stores.
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