Cinnamon: 10 healthy properties and benefits

Cinnamon is a sweet and delicious spice widely used in gastronomy, to season all kinds of dishes, desserts and infusions. But did you know that it also has multiple benefits for our body and our health?

In this article we collect the 10 properties and benefits of cinnamon, so that you are encouraged to include it in your recipes and you can take advantage of its benefits for your well-being.

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10 properties and benefits of cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used for centuries as part of natural remedies for all kinds of conditions, thanks to its beneficial properties for the body. We tell you all its health benefits:

1. Antioxidant

Cinnamon is one of the popular medicinal spices with more protective antioxidants, such as polyphenols, phenolic acid and flavonoids, which help slow down aging, prevent cell damage and fight free radicals. This makes cinnamon a food that helps prevent degenerative diseases, the formation of cancer or other diseases.

2. Anti-inflammatory

Another of the benefits of cinnamon are its anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain caused by inflammation such as muscle pain, menstrual cramps and relieve the symptoms of allergic processes. They also prevent the risk of degenerative diseases, heart problems, and some inflammation-related cancers.

3. Antibiotic

Cinnamon also has natural antibiotic and antiviral effects, which help protect the body from disease and infection. Cinnamon essential oils are especially effective in this regard, strengthening the immune system and helping to fight infections and viruses. It is also very beneficial for treating colds and flu.

4. Improves brain functions

Thanks to the presence of powerful antioxidants, cinnamon activates neuroprotective proteins in the brain, which prevent damage and weakening of cognitive functions. In this way, it prevents the development of diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases related to aging.

5. Helps prevent cancer

The cinnamon protects from cell damage that can cause mutations and develop cancer, thanks to its antioxidant properties. This spice contains compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, which inhibit the growth and development of tumors and promote the elimination of cancer cells.

6. Improves circulation and protects the heart

Another benefit of cinnamon is related to heart health. Cinnamon reduces high blood pressure, lowers bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels, improves circulation, and contributes to the repair of cardiovascular tissue. All this helps prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease or related to heart problems.

7. It helps fight diabetes

Cinnamon blocks enzymes called alanines, which are what allow the absorption of glucose into the blood. In this way, the entry of sugar into the blood decreases, which makes it very beneficial for people with diabetes, especially type 2. It also favors the sensitivity of the hormone insulin, which allows you to balance blood sugar levels.

8. Good for digestion

The cinnamon favors the proper functioning of the digestive system. It favors the elimination of gases and is good for treating problems such as diarrhea or nausea. In addition, its antibacterial effect helps prevent the formation of bacteria that can cause intestinal problems.

9. Aphrodisiac

By improving circulation and blood supply, cinnamon stimulates the bloodstream and increases blood flow to the sexual organs, promoting a increased arousal and sensitivity in intimate areas. It is also a food that stimulates the senses in a very pleasant way.

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10. Good for the skin

Another of the benefits of cinnamon we can feel on our skin, because thanks to its antibiotic properties that help fight infections, it is perfect for treating problems such as skin irritations, acne, redness or allergies. That is why cinnamon is used as an ingredient in many home remedies to treat skin problems, such as face masks or creams.

Side effects

Despite the fact that it is a beneficial food and without negative side effects, it is recommended to avoid its consumption in some special cases, since its properties may interfere with some processes or treatments.

To begin with and as with all foods, it is best not to abuse its consumption, especially in the case of using it in the form of a supplement or essential oil. It is also advised not to take it in case of taking antibiotics, as it could alter their performance.

In any case it is recommended to avoid its consumption during pregnancy, since by stimulating blood circulation it could be detrimental to pregnancy, as well as during the lactation period, since it could lead to allergies.

It is also better to avoid or reduce its consumption in case of ulcers or other intestinal problems serious, since cinnamon can cause stomach irritations. The same happens in cases of heart disease, as it accelerates the heart rate.

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