Properties and benefits of cinnamon: uses and contraindications

La cinnamon It is a dried, yellow-brown spice obtained from the bark of certain trees. Once the outer cork is removed, the bark is then fragmented, rolled into multilayered cylinders (called cannelli) measuring between 20 and 80 centimeters, and then dried.

Index of topics

What

The most valuable, and also most expensive, plant is the Cinnamomum Zeylanicom, native to Sri Lanka, hazelnut in color. Then there is the Cinnamomum cassia, which instead comes from China, has a harsher aroma and is cheaper than the Sri Lankan variety. Sometimes, the two cinnamons are mixed to produce a good-quality product at an affordable price. One way to distinguish the two cinnamon species is by the size of the stems: the Sri Lankan variety is smaller and more wrinkled and reddish. Cinnamon is harvested twice a year, in spring and autumn after the rainy season.

antibacterial, antiseptic, stimulant and digestive.
For people who suffer from diabetes Type 2, cinnamon has the same function as insulin thanks to the presence of a particular polyphenol within it.
Helps to bear the menstrual cramps.

Why it helps you lose weight

Cinnamon helps you lose weight, indirectly and for several reasons. It prevents the complete assimilation of sugars in the intestine, thus also helping to maintain a healthy blood sugar level. It acts as a fat burner and keeps emotional cravings at bay. It reduces hunger pangs and sweet cravings.

What it contains

For each 100 grams of dried cinnamon there are:

247 calories
3,99 grams protein
55 grams of carbohydrates
1,24 grams of fat
2,17 grams of sugars
53,1 grams of dietary fiber
10 milligrams of sodium

Property

Cinnamon is used in practice Ayurvedic Since the dawn of civilization: its main activity is to combat bacteria, as it is a natural antiseptic capable of fighting and eliminating fungi and viruses. There are many cinnamon-based preparations that can be used to combat:

Digestive problems
Fatigue
lack of appetite
Cold, sore throat
Diarrhea
Chills and flu symptoms
Flatulence
Intestinal colic
Poor appetite

Benefits

The use of cinnamon as natural medicine was already known first to the Egyptians and then to the Romans. Over the centuries its property and its benefits they have become increasingly accredited, and we can summarize them as follows:

It's a natural antioxidant that stimulates blood circulation and fights "bad" cholesterol. Therefore, it also helps protect cardiovascular circulation.
It has properties Uses in the kitchen

One of the major uses of cinnamon is in association with honey: the beneficial properties of honey and cinnamon, in fact, are often used together to provide relief, together with a cup of tisane, soothes a burning throat and soothes flu symptoms. Cinnamon can be used to season all sweet and savory dishes, and its aroma stimulates concentration and encourages study. Cinnamon, paired with apples, enhances any dish that calls for it: from cakes to risottos, from sorbets to main courses. Here are some delicious and easy-to-prepare cinnamon recipes:

How it is preserved

Both in splints, both macinataCinnamon is a spice that can be stored for a very long time without any particular problems. It's important to pay attention to a few things. First of all, it must be kept in well-sealed jars, preferably hermetically sealed, away from humidity, light, and heat. The aroma is best preserved in the stick form, while the powdered version lasts about half as long (six to nine months). stick It also has another advantage: it can be ground as needed and is not wasted.

Controindicazioni

Le contraindications of cinnamon, if you don't overdo it, there are really very few. The important thing is do not go beyond a consumption of three grams per dayOtherwise, you risk allergic reactions, mucosal reactions, ulcers, and allergic rashes. Cinnamon is not recommended for pregnant women and people with intestinal or liver diseases. Finally, it should be kept in mind that cinnamon contains coumarin, a moderately toxic substance for the kidneys and liver.

The essential oil

THEcinnamon essential oil It is obtained from the leaves and young branches, using steam distillation. It has a dark yellow color, a pleasant aroma, and a spicy scent. It has the same benefits as ground cinnamon and is used to make fumigations: eight drops in a bowl of boiling water are enough. It can also be used for massages mixed with almond oil, in this ratio: 20 drops of cinnamon essential oil to 200 ml of almond oil. Finally, cinnamon essential oil can also be used in desserts and dishes.

Cinnamon: Benefits, Uses, and Contraindications