Benefits & Use of Cinnamon.

Some of the many health benefits thought to stem from cinnamon include:

• Better digestion � Cinnamon and other related spices have long been used as a digestive aid, and those who suffer from stomach cramps, irritable bowel syndrome and other common stomach disorders often find that adding cinnamon to their favorite dish aids digestion.

• Toning of tissues � There is considerable anecdotal evidence to suggest that cinnamon has the ability to tone and constrict tissues in the body.

• Relief from congestion � Cinnamon and other spices have long been used to relieve the congestion that can come from colds, allergies and other common conditions.

• Relief from muscle and joint pain and stiffness � Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain and stiffness is reduced or even eliminated.

• Relief from menstrual cramping and other discomfort � Cinnamon has long been used in the world of traditional medicine to treat the discomfort that accompanies menstruation, and many women report that a daily helping of cinnamon greatly reduces cramping, pain and other common menstrual complaints.

• Thinning of the blood and better circulation � Like garlic, cinnamon acts as a blood thinning agent.  Though not as powerful as garlic, cinnamon also acts to thin the blood and increase circulation.

• Relief from the pain of arthritis � Recent studies have suggested that cinnamon may contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may be useful in reducing the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.

• Prevention of urinary tract infections � Many of those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis report a lower incidence of urinary tract infections.

• Prevention of tooth decay and gum disease � Likewise there is considerable anecdotal evidence that cinnamon may be helpful in the prevention of tooth decay and gum disease.

• Killing harmful bacteria � Cinnamon has been shown to be a powerful antimicrobial agent, one that has the ability to kill such common germs as E. coli and other harmful bacteria.