Combat Bacteria! Employ Cinnamon!

Cinnamon is universally acknowledged as a distinctive spice that significantly enhances the flavor of both desserts and savory dishes. Only four species of Cinnamomum are utilized for this purpose: Cinnamomum verum (known as the original cinnamon), Cinnamomum aromaticum, Cinnamomum loureirii, and Cinnamomum burmannii. They are available in various forms such as bark in cups, powdered bark, and in prosthetic form. Depending on the form, their chemical composition and properties may vary. The components of cinnamon essential oils include cinnamon aldehyde, eugenol, cinnamon acid, tannins, proanthocyanidins, and monoterpenes.

Cinnamon may prove effective in reducing glucose levels in the body. Certain compounds present in cinnamon bark can activate insulin receptors and the synthesis of glucose transporters, facilitating glucose uptake by cells. In scientific studies, cinnamon taken in various doses (1-6 g daily) resulted in a significant decrease in glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes who underwent pharmacological treatment and a proper diet. Unfortunately, none of the studies confirmed long-term benefits related to diabetes control. None of the diabetes associations, such as the American Diabetes Association or the Canadian Diabetes Association, recommend the use of cinnamon or its supplements as a complement to standard therapy. However, there are no contraindications to freely using it as a spice, adding flavor and potentially improving carbohydrate metabolism.

Cinnamon and cinnamon oils are frequently used as ingredients in medicinal cosmetics. However, there are many recipes available on the internet for homemade specialties that use these spices. Despite the difficulty in finding studies that unequivocally confirm the skin effects of cinnamon, it can be assumed to be helpful in fighting teenage acne. It has been discovered that due to its antibacterial properties, it effectively works against the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis. In studies, water-alcohol extracts from cinnamon bark have been found to be effective. In the case of a possible allergy, there are no contraindications to trying a cinnamon mask at home. One should mix a teaspoon of the spices with honey or water until a thick mass is formed, which is then applied to the face where changes occur. However, one should be careful and start with a small amount of the mask, as in the case of an allergy, contact with cinnamon can lead to skin changes. Similarly, it is with toothpaste with cinnamon extract.

Cinnamon is a traditional component of the Indian spice blend known as garam masala. Besides cinnamon, this blend also includes cardamom, cloves, black pepper, cumin, and muscat flour. Garam masala is classically added to a dish called Rogan Josh, which consists of meat cooked in ghee (traditional Indian clarified butter). Cinnamon is also an excellent addition to coffee, and its blend with coffee can be helpful in fighting infections. However, it is important to note that the amount of cinnamon that is typically added to dishes is unlikely to have a therapeutic effect. A fascinating, yet little-known idea is adding cinnamon to vegetables. The best method is to combine the spice with cooked carrots, parsley, or sweet potatoes. On cold and warm days, cinnamon tea is an excellent choice. Cinnamon should be boiled with a glass of water and then strained before adding the juice of one orange. The tea can be sweetened with honey. It is also important to note that cinnamon can cause allergic reactions, such as contact with the oral cavity, caused by chewing gum or using toothpaste with cinnamon additives. It is also important to be cautious when using cosmetics with cinnamon additives.