Various Benefits of Cinnamon for Health and Side Effects

Not only as a spice in cooking, aroma enhancer in coffee, and cake fragrances, the benefits of cinnamon for health are also very numerous. To get health benefits, cinnamon should be consumed wisely, so that side effects can be avoided. Cinnamon, which is commonly used for cooking, is made from cinnamon tree bark extract. This one herb has been used all over the world as a medicine. The benefits of cinnamon for health are quite diverse despite the need for further research related to its efficacy.

Various Benefits of Cinnamon for Health

Initially, the benefits of this herbaceous plant to protect the skin from mosquito bites through the use of mosquito rub cream. However, it turns out cinnamon can also be used to help overcome several health problems, such as:

• Diabetes

Several studies have revealed a link between reducing sugar levels and consuming cinnamon. One of them found that cinnamon might reduce blood sugar levels by 24 percent and cholesterol levels by 18 percent. Other studies reveal cinnamon consumed 2 grams every day for 12 consecutive weeks may be able to control blood sugar and lower blood pressure in diabetic patients. But unfortunately, other studies have not found the same results.

• Heart

A study shows that consumption of foods rich in herbs, like cinnamon and turmeric, can reduce the negative effects of fatty foods, so it is believed to reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Bacterial and fungal infections

Cinnamaldehyde active substances found in cinnamon are believed to be able to help fight various types of infections. Cinnamon oil, for example, has been proven effective in treating respiratory infections caused by fungi. Antimicrobial effects on cinnamon can also help prevent tooth decay and reduce bad breath.

• Alzheimer's

Cinnamon is high in antioxidants, such as polyphenols. High antioxidant content in cinnamon can protect the body from free radicals, antioxidants are also believed to be beneficial for Alzheimer's disease. In addition to the high antioxidant content, other ingredients found in cinnamon can also inhibit protein buildup in the brain, which is one of the main causes of Alzheimer's.

Although it is believed to have many benefits, cinnamon still needs further research to prove the truth of the properties contained therein.

Don't Overdo Cinnamon

Various health benefits of cinnamon you might get, but there are things that need to be considered in consuming them. Although there are currently no exact quantities, it is a good idea to consider the following recommended dosage:

• For Cassia type cinnamon, it is recommended to use only 0.5 - 4 grams or the equivalent of one teaspoon per day.
• For Ceyon cinnamon, it is recommended to use it as much as 5 grams or the equivalent of 2.5 teaspoons per day.

The difference in dose is due to differences in the amount of content found in Cassia and Ceyon type cinnamon. For example, the content of coumarin found in Cassia is higher when compared to Ceyon type cinnamon, so it requires fewer doses to be safe for consumption. If you consume excessive amounts of coumarin, you have the potential to experience health problems, including:

• Irritation or sores on the mouth and lips.
• Blood sugar that is too low.
• Respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma.
• Worsen liver function disorders.

The benefits of cinnamon for health are quite numerous. However, it would be nice if consumed wisely in sufficient quantities as needed, to avoid side effects. Because it still requires further research related to the benefits and side effects of cinnamon, it helps you consult a doctor first before using it.