If we talk about spices, Cinnamon is one of my favorites. It comes from the bark of various trees which belong to the Cinnamomum genus. The great part of cinnamon is it can be used to prepare both sweet and savoury dishes, it is a perfect spice that enhances the flavour of anything it is added to: dessert, gravy, alcohol, ice cream, even tea. It is a spice in true sense. It makes the dessert sweeter, the savoury more spicy. It also works wonders with alcohols like brandy and whiskey. I bow to the person who had the brilliant idea of eating the bark of this tree and thus discover this amazing spice full of great taste, heavenly fragrance and amazing flavour. Not only is this spice multitalented, it’s also multi-beneficial. Read on to find out more spicy facts about cinnamon.
1. Antioxidant Rich: Cinnamon is very rich in antioxidants and is carminative in nature, thus helps to fight disease and slows down the ageing process in the body. The carminative properties help in eliminating acidity, indigestion, nausea, vomiting and fights diarrhea, and reduces morning sickness.
Did you know, cinnamon is so powerful that it can be used as a natural food preservative? Thinking of adding it to your next batch of jam? I am thinking the same!
2. Fights and prevents diseases: Cinnamon helps to reduce the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, while maintains the level of HDL (good cholesterol) thus reducing the chances of heart disease and heart attack. A research has also proved that regular consumption of cinnamon very beneficial for people suffering with type 2 diabetes.
Did you know the flavour of cinnamon is due to an aromatic essential oil that makes up 0.5 to 1% of it’s composition. And you thought oils are not good and unhealthy?
3. Boosts metabolism: Cinnamon helps to aid digestion. Due to its carminative properties, it is very useful in eliminating excess gas. As we know it is rich in antioxidants thus boosts your metabolism. A cup of cinnamon tea, helps to melt the extra fat in your body, specially your belly fat.

Did you know, cinnamon is used in various desserts made out of apple, as it enhances the flavour of apple? Cinnamon and apple is a classic combination of spice enhancing the flavour of fruit. How about adding a pinch in the next apple pie you make this fall?

4. Aroma Therapy: Besides its amazing flavour, cinnamon also has great fragrance. It helps in relieving the symptoms of cough, cold, sore throat and congestion. Cinnamon is very commonly used as a physical and emotional stimulant. It relaxes tight muscles, reduces drowsiness, irritability, and also helps to relieve from headache and other pains. Burning cinnamon greatly helps in better concentration. It is also argued that cinnamon helps in better brain functioning which further reduces the chances of brain related diseases like alzheimer’s diseases and parkinson.  Still contemplating on buying the cinnamon fragrance candle?
Did you know, cinnamon is also considered as an aphrodisiac? Now you know what to use, to set the mood this weekend!
5. Other benefits: Cinnamon essential oil is a great mosquito repellent. It is also said to be good antibacterial and anti-fungal agent making it very effective in treatment of infections.
Did you know, direct topical application of cinnamon oil has adverse effects on the skin. It is always best used after diluting it with a carrier oil.
Now you know the great secrets of this fragrant spice, I am quite sure, you are excited to use it. The best part is that you are not bound to use this spice in a strict vogue, you can eat it, apply it and even smell it. No matter what you do, you will end up greatly benefitting out of it. To know more benefits and uses of this awesome spice, click here.