The sweet aroma of cinnamon reminds us of rich sweet treats made with this spice. However, it is important to know that cinnamon is an excellent spice for teas, as it not only adds a delicious flavor but also has numerous beneficial properties for the body.
Cinnamon tea is made from the bark of the cinnamon tree, which is rolled into sticks when dried, hence the well-known shape of cinnamon sticks found in stores. These sticks can be infused directly in hot water or ground and placed in tea infusers for brewing. Cinnamon tea is full of benefits, which is why it is good to consume it throughout the year. Below, you will find some of the most important properties of this tea.
Types of Cinnamon
There are about 250 types of cinnamon worldwide, but the most well-known and used are Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia cinnamon. These come from two different but related trees. Ceylon cinnamon comes from trees grown in areas such as Sri Lanka and Thailand. Because it is very hard to find, Ceylon cinnamon is also more expensive.
Easier to obtain and more affordable is Cassia cinnamon (also known as Saigon or Chinese cinnamon). This type contains a compound known as coumarin, which could affect the liver in case of excessive consumption.
Ceylon cinnamon contains a small amount of coumarin and is better tolerated. For this reason, Ceylon is a much healthier option and is recommended by specialists.
What Benefits Does Cinnamon Tea Have?
It is a rich source of antioxidants
Cinnamon tea is rich in antioxidants that are beneficial for our health. Antioxidants protect us from the oxidation process caused by free radicals. These are molecules that can damage the body’s cells and contribute to the onset of certain diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions. Cinnamon is abundant in polyphenols, a class of antioxidants also found in cloves and oregano. Furthermore, it is important to mention that cinnamon helps limit the accumulation of nitric oxide in the blood and prevents the peroxidation of fats. These can increase the risk of brain disorders, cancer, heart diseases, and other chronic conditions.
Moreover, consuming cinnamon enhances our own ability to fight against free radicals due to its high antioxidant content.
Helpful in Inflammation
The antioxidants found in cinnamon help reduce inflammation in the body. Because this spice has so many health benefits, it can reduce swelling and prevent inflammation, making it helpful for those who suffer from pain. Some older studies show that cinnamon is an ally in reducing muscle pain, alleviating menstrual pain, decreasing the severity of allergic reactions, and easing other types of pain that occur as we age.
For example, older research indicates that certain compounds found in cinnamon have been effective in reducing inflammation markers in vitro. What does this mean? That cinnamon may have benefits in reducing inflammation. Studies suggest that inflammation could be responsible for the onset of chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Numerous studies show that certain compounds in cinnamon can reduce markers that cause inflammation in the body, which can significantly lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, consuming cinnamon can improve blood pressure, as well as levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, which further contributes to cardiovascular health and can protect us from heart attacks or strokes.
Furthermore, cinnamon can increase levels of HDL cholesterol, the good kind, which helps eliminate excess LDL cholesterol from the blood. Cinnamon is rich in coumarin, a compound that can contribute to the health of blood vessels and prevent the formation of blood clots. It is important to note, however, that excessive consumption of coumarin can trigger certain liver diseases and increase the risk of bleeding, so cinnamon intake should be controlled.
May Balance Blood Sugar Levels
Cinnamon may have antidiabetic effects by lowering blood sugar levels and balancing the glycemic index. The spice seems to have a similar action in the body as insulin, the hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels in the blood and tissues. Moreover, compounds in cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance, which enhances the effectiveness of insulin action in the body. Cinnamon can also help by slowing down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the intestinal tract, which in turn helps maintain a balanced blood sugar level after each meal.
May Help in the Fight Against Excess Weight
Cinnamon tea is often recommended in weight loss regimens, as regular consumption supports calorie burning and, therefore, weight loss. To enjoy this benefit, you can opt for a simple tea with cinnamon or a herbal tea blend that includes cinnamon.
Has Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
Cinnamon has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, mainly due to its active ingredient, cinnamaldehyde. This compound prevents the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold. Among the bacteria that we can protect ourselves from with the help of cinnamon are staphylococcus, salmonella, and E. coli.
Maintains Oral Health
It is important to mention that the antibacterial effect of cinnamon can have other benefits, namely reducing the risk of cavities and unpleasant breath. Some older studies have shown that this spice is beneficial for oral hygiene and could protect against certain bacteria responsible for bad breath, cavities, and oral infections.
Similar to mint, one of the health benefits of cinnamon is that it can also be used as a natural flavoring agent in chewing gums.
Maintains Brain Health
Due to the abundant antioxidants in its composition, cinnamon is a spice that can stimulate brain function and may help prevent the development of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Although studies on humans have not been conducted, in vitro studies show that cinnamon stops the accumulation of a specific protein in the brain, thus reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, specialists have discovered that this spice, with its strong aroma and flavor, protects neurons against oxidative stress. In this way, the risk of inflammation and cell damage in animals has been reduced. The conclusion of specialists is that cinnamon can help maintain brain health and prevent cognitive decline.
Maintains Skin Health
The potential benefits of cinnamon for the skin are attributed to its antibiotic and antimicrobial properties. Cinnamon tea may help protect the skin from irritations, rashes, allergic reactions, and infections, according to older research.
Reduces Allergic Symptoms
Due to the numerous beneficial compounds found in its composition, cinnamon can be a reliable ally in cases of allergies. Specialists say that this spice can help combat common allergic symptoms, as it has been shown to reduce inflammation and fight against allergic reactions in many animal models.
Helps with Faster Nutrient Absorption
Consumed as tea, cinnamon also has an effect on the body: it helps hydrate it. Moreover, the water used to prepare the tea aids in the faster absorption of nutrients found in cinnamon. Many compounds in cinnamon that support health are water-soluble. This is the conclusion reached by scientists.
May Support Intestinal Health
Specialists say that some spices, including cinnamon, have prebiotic properties. When consumed regularly, they could help restore the balance of bacteria in the intestines, support digestive health, and prevent digestive disorders.
May Reduce Menstrual Cramps and Other Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome
Cinnamon tea may reduce unpleasant symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as dysmenorrhea, irritability, and nausea. Additionally, research shows that moderate consumption of cinnamon can reduce menstrual bleeding as well as the nausea associated with menstruation, a symptom often encountered by women.
How to Prepare Cinnamon Tea
The simplest method to prepare cinnamon tea is to add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to a cup of hot water and mix the ingredients very well. Another option would be to steep a cinnamon stick in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. This way, beneficial compounds from cinnamon are released into the water. You may also find cinnamon tea bags available, which are usually combined with other types of tea, such as green tea or ginger tea.
Attention! If consumed in large quantities, cinnamon can interact with medications you are taking, including those for diabetes, heart diseases, and liver conditions.
