Cinnamon is a very popular ingredient in the gastronomic world for its sweet, warm and slightly spicy aroma and flavor.
Although it is usually used as a branch or powder to flavor different dishes, it can also be drunk in the form of tea to take advantage of all its benefits. Find out here each of its properties and how to prepare it as an infusion.
What is cinnamon?
What is commonly known as cinnamon is the inner bark (obtained by peeling and rubbing the branches) of the cinnamon tree. Among the most common types of cinnamon that can be found in stores and markets are:
- Ceylon Cinnamon : ( Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum zeylanicum ) from Sri Lanka, it is characterized by having a taste and aroma sweet and soft. The branches are thin, light brown in color, and with many thin layers that break easily.
- Cinnamon cassia : ( Cinnamomum cassia ) from China, it is characterized by having a stronger and spicier flavor and aroma than that of Ceylon. The branches are thick, dark brown in color, and with a single hard layer that is difficult to break.
Knowing how to differentiate them is important not only for a matter of taste and price (that of Ceylon is usually more expensive) but also to control the consumption of a substance that has toxic effects on the liver: coumarin.
While in Ceylon cinnamon the levels of coumarin are almost imperceptible, it is estimated that in cassia cinnamon it can be found between 15 and 20 mg in a teaspoon.
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Although occasional consumption does not represent any health risk, it should be considered to replace it (for example, by Ceylon) if it is part of the daily diet.
How to make cinnamon tea
Cinnamon tea is a very healthy infusion that can be easily prepared by following these steps:
- Heats water.
- When it comes to a boil, turn off the heat and add the cinnamon. Keep in mind that the proportion is a cinnamon stick or a teaspoon of its powder for each cup of water (236 ml or 8 oz.)
- Let the preparation rest for 10 minutes.
- If you used a branch, you will need to remove it. You can reserve it to make tea in the future.
- Optional : you can add honey, milk, sweeteners (such as xylitol or stevia), blended fruits, or other types of tea, such as black or red, to add flavor to the infusion.
The main active compound in cinnamon, and consequently in its tea, is cinnamaldehyde. Different investigations linked this ingredient, along with others that can be found in this infusion, such as cinnamic acid, catechins or linalol, with different health benefits:
Helps fight colds
In Ayurveda, the traditional and alternative medicine of India, cinnamon is used to cure and relieve common colds and flu.
This is because several of its compounds have antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. For this reason, it is believed that cinnamon tea can help neutralize and eliminate pathogens or foreign agents that cause infections or diseases in the body.
Against arthritis
Cinnamon contains two antimicrobial agents (cinnamaldehyde and eugenol) that reduce proteins associated with arthritic pain.
Drinking its tea can help reduce inflammation and pain caused by arthritis, as well as soothe itching, irritation or discomfort derived from other conditions.
Stimulates digestion
Digestive problems can be solved with the help of cinnamon , as it relieves stomach pain, especially intestinal infections that cause diarrhea.
Its tea is also often used to combat flatulence, muscle and stomach spasms, to prevent nausea or vomiting, or to improve digestion , as it stimulates gastric juices and stomach acids.
Is it an aphrodisiac?
Cinnamon has been a highly valued spice since ancient times, as it is believed to stimulate libido and act as a blood flow enhancer in the abdominal area of the body.
By facilitating blood flow in that region, it improves the irrigation of the genitals, both for women and men.
Strengthens mental health
Cinnamaldehyde , an organic compound responsible for the characteristic taste and smell of cinnamon, can help to inhibit the accumulation in the brain of the protein tau, associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
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This mechanism was also associated with protection against other mental problems, such as stress, anxiety and oxidative damage to neurons. There are even those who point out that drinking cinnamon tea can improve cognitive speed and increase concentration. However, experts point out that it is necessary to continue studying all these associations.
Reduces cholesterol
Se believes that drinking cinnamon tea on a regular basis or including it in the preparation of different dishes is enough to lower the levels of cholesterol levels and triglycerides. According to the researchers, this is because it influences carbohydrate metabolism, promoting blood circulation.
Keep cholesterol levels low is important to prevent coronary heart disease, and reduce the chances of developing atherosclerosis or having a heart attack or stroke.
Regulates levels of blood sugar
Cinnamon tea has high levels of magnesium, iron, calcium and is rich in polyphenols (powerful natural antioxidants). These increase the sensitivity of cells to the action of insulin, which favors the regulation of blood sugar levels .
Lose weight
By reducing the amount of insulin produced, cinnamon tea can allow the body to store less fat, leading over time (along with a healthy diet and regular exercise) to the gradual loss of weight.
However, more studies are still needed to understand the mechanism behind this relationship and to know its degree of effectiveness.
Other benefits
Although more studies are still needed, it is believed that cinnamon tea can help reduce the growth rate of cancer cells The reason? Researchers disagree, but assume that the action of its oil literally starves cancer cells.
In addition, its rich content of antioxidants provides protection against the action of free radicals, unstable molecules that affect healthy cell structures and increase the development of different types of chronic diseases.
Precautions
Although cinnamon tea has many benefits, experts They advise drinking it in moderation, due to the presence of coumarin.
Otherwise, you may suffer different side effects, such as an upset stomach, inflammation or liver problems.
To remember:
Until there is significant scientific evidence from human trials, people interested in using therapies based on Herbs and supplements should be very careful.
Do not abandon or modify your medications or treatments, first talk to your doctor about the potential effects of alternative or complementary therapies.
Remember, the medicinal properties of herbs and supplements can also interact with prescription drugs, other herbs and supplements, and even alter your diet.
Sources consulted : Exhaustive Database of Natural Medicines, National Library of Medicine of USA, Mayo Clinic, National Institute of Complementary and Alternative Medicine.