The Health Benefits of Cinnamon

Health Benefits of Cinnamon 1 – Cinnamon for blood pressure:
A study in rats has indicated the potential of cinnamon for blood pressure. The rats ingested a sugar solution to raise their blood pressure. They were then given cinnamon extract, ground cinnamon or a placebo. Rats that received the cinnamon extract and the ground cinnamon had reduced blood pressure.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon 2- Cinnamon for arthritis:
In an evaluation of 122 Chinese herbs for efficiency in the reduction of uric acid levels, extract of cinnamon cassia was the most effective for suppressing the enzyme that is responsible for the production of uric acid.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon 3 – Cinnamon for type 2 diabetes:
A study in rats has shown that extract of cinnamon lowers blood glucose levels.
Humans with type 2 diabetes who were given cinnamon extract had significantly reduced blood sugar levels.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon 4 – Cinnamon for heart health:
Research has shown that cinnamon can reduce lipids and also have platelet adhesion and anti inflammatory and properties. In one study it was shown that intake of only 6 grams of cinnamon daily could reduce triglycerides, serum glucose, LDL cholesterol as well as total cholesterol in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Cinnamon is a great source of manganese as well as fiber and also a good source of calcium.

Ceylon cinnamon comes from the island of Sri Lanka. The use of cinnamon was documented in a 2700 B.C. book on Chinese botanical medicine. Cinnamon was used in ancient Egypt as a medicine as well as a beverage flavoring. Cinnamon became really popular in Medieval Europe, and because of its demand, it became one of the first products that was traded on a regular basis between Europe and the Near East.

The main producers of Ceylon cinnamon are Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, India and the Caribbean, and the main producers of cassia are China, Indonesia and Vietnam.

Cinnamon must be stored in a dark location in an airtight container. Whole cinnamon can last for 1 year, but cinnamon that has been ground will begin to lose its flavor after 6 months.