The sweet, woody flavors of cinnamon star in some of the most scrumptious sweets like snickerdoodle cookies and crumbly coffee cake. You may be surprised that despite cinnamon's association with sugar and desserts, the spice is a super powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent that can fight diabetes and heal toenail fungus.
1) Treat the flu and stomach bugs: Cinnamon loves to crush bacteria living in your gut. It can even be effective in fighting such nasty and severe bacteria as E.Coli, according to a study published on PubMed.gov. To fight flu and other stomach bugs, Cinnamon Vogue recommends making tea by slowly boiling one Ceylon cinnamon stick in 1.5 cups of water for 15- 25 minutes. Let the tea sit for an additional 15 minutes and watch as the tea turns from pale yellow to a deep golden red.
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2) Neutralize odors: Cinnamon is a warm, delightful scent. It is often associated with fall leaves and Christmas morning. Even better, cinnamon is effective at killing bad odors. This is because bad odors are often caused by bacteria, and cinnamon is a natural anti-bacterial. To make a natural and fabulously smelling odor neutralizer, follow the advice of The Kitchn and simply boil a cinnamon stick in a pot of boiling water for 30 minutes. In no time, your home will smell like warm apple pie.
3) Boost Metabolism: Cinnamon is a kick in the butt to your metabolism. It does this by improving blood sugar regulation and slowing the emptying of your stomach, according to an article in the Huffington Post. Use a hack by Fitday and add a teaspoon of cinnamon to your morning cup of coffee, sprinkle it on toast, or mix in in with oatmeal or cereal in order to boost your metabolism first thing in the morning.
4) Fight gum disease and bad breath: The anti-bacterial miracles of cinnamon can have wonderful benefits for your mouth health. According to Organic Lifestyle Magazine, you can treat gum disease and bad breath by simply swishing your mouth with a mixture made from 2 drops of cinnamon essential oil and a tablespoon of coconut oil.
5) Fight type 2 diabetes:. According to Mayo Clinic, cinnamon helps lower blood sugar and increases insulin action. For people with type 2 diabetes, The Cleveland Clinic recommends 1 to 4 grams or 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon per day. In addition to including cinnamon in one's diet, people with type 2 diabetes can receive the blood sugar lowering benefits of cinnamon by taking an herbal supplement in the form of a capsule.
6) Insect repellent: Though cinnamon is one of the most beloved spices among humans, it is detested by insects. Earth Easy says to stop an ant infestation without killing the little creatures, sprinkle a line of cinnamon where the ants are coming in. They will not cross the cinnamon barrier and will go right back from where they came. You can also prevent moth holes in your clothes by making sachets filled with cinnamon sticks.
7) Anti-depressant: It makes sense that cinnamon's association with autumn and Christmas can transport you to blissful memories. But there is actually scientific proof that cinnamon fights gut bacteria often associated with depression. According to gastroenterologist Dr. Stephen Collins in an article on Live Science, "There's a strong relationship between gastroenterology and psychiatric conditions." Make a nice warming cup of cinnamon tea following of one the many recipes on Bembu and feel your mood instantly improve.
8) Treat toenail fungus: Toenail fungus can be frustrating and difficult to treat. Luckily, cinnamon, as a potent anti-fungal, is a lifesaving home remedy. Cinnamon Vogue suggests using cinnamon leaf oil to treat the fungus internally. To treat toenail fungus, apply cinnamon leaf oil directly to the nail in the morning and evening. You can also soak your feet in diluted cinnamon oil mixed with Epsom salt. You will be amazed at how fast and effective this natural treatment is.
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Who knew something so tasty could have so many health benefits! SHARE this article and tell us about your cinnamon home remedy hacks!