Long Winter Getting You Down? Try Cinnamon!

Have you ever considered how aromatic the Garden of Eden must have been when God placed Adam and Eve in it? What a magnificent fragrance wafted through the air! Rosemary, oregano, thyme, sage, cinnamon, cumin . . . Designed to live forever, God undoubtedly advised them to consume great amounts of different spices in the garden to “add life to their years.” Spices contain healing properties that improve our mood, heal our wounds and spirit. Consuming them can keep us fit and youthful.

Today let’s discuss one of my favorite spices in the Bible: Cinnamon:

Proverbs 7:17, ” I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.”

What a wonder spice!  Originally, a native of Asia, it now is found in over a hundred countries worldwide. The Chinese considered it a warming drug and began using it as medicine. Today it can be found in diverse products from chewing gum to suntan lotions and perfumes.  Sometimes sold as cinnamon sticks, it’s more commonly used in ground form.

The health benefits of cinnamon are amazing!

1. It’s wonderful for diabetics because it efficiently regulates glucose levels by allowing insulin to be released more slowly into the system.  
2. Studies have shown that cinnamon is such a strong antioxidant that it can even stop certain cancer cells in its tracks!
3. Antibacterial, it fights bacterial infections, even the deadly e coli bacteria. 
4. It’s also antifungal and has been known to cure athletes foot and yeast infections.
5. It helps to strengthen our immune system
6. Anti-inflammatory, it’s a good tonic for arthritic conditions. 
7. Cinnamon has anti-clotting properties.
8. Reduces bad LDL cholesterol and raises good HDL cholesterol
9. It’s an astringent.
10. It stimulates circulation and regulates blood pressure.
11. A blood purifier, it’s wonderful for the skin. Since honey has anti-bacterial properties as well, try mixing with cinnamon and apply as a facial.
12. It’s been used as a stomach tonic for upset tummy, abdominal pains or bowel disturbances.
13. It’s a great breath freshener, especially if you travel and can’t brush your teeth before meeting with someone.
14. Rich in essential minerals, it contains manganese, iron and calcium. It’s also rich in fiber.
15. It’s now considered to be an elevating brain enhancer. (Students should try adding cinnamon to their daily diet days before a test.) It’s currently being studied as a treatment in patients who exhibit dementia or Alzheimer like symptoms.
16. It has been used a wonderful aroma therapy due to its calming elements.

It’s so easy to increase our cinnamon intake! 

• It can be added to so many different recipes.  Remember how enticing the smell of a Cinnamon roll is as you enter the mall? Or cinnamon toast as you walk into your kitchen? Yes, cinnamon is both comforting and enticing!
• What would pumpkin, apple pie or bread pudding be without cinnamon?
• Sprinkle it on a baked apple, applesauce or other fruit with walnuts or pecans for Essential Fatty Acids, fiber and nutrients.
• Add it to hot cocoa, coffee or tea.
• Add it to your morning oatmeal, French toast or yogurt for a great start to your day!
• Place cinnamon sticks in warm cider or brew a wonderful popular German spiced winter wine called glühwein.

Cautions:

• As in life, if a little is good, more is not necessarily better. Do not imbibe in excess! (Humans have this belief that if it’s natural, I can use as much as I want, wrong!)
• Since cinnamon thins the blood it shouldn’t be used for those who are taking blood thinning medications without talking to your doctor.
• Cinnamon could stimulate other body functions, such as bowel movements.
• If you are pregnant, please discuss cinnamon with your doctor before ingesting.

Whatever you do, remember to honor God by living an abundant life for Him, making Him the real spice in your life!  1 Corinthians 10:31, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”