Cinnamon and Honey: A Powerful Remedy Even Doctors Can’t Fully Explain
Cinnamon and honey are two of nature’s most powerful and versatile foods, often regarded as miracle remedies for various health issues. When combined, they offer a natural solution for several common ailments.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon and Honey
Common Cold
Cinnamon and honey are known for their strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties, which make them effective in treating colds and flu. Honey helps suppress coughing, alleviates flu symptoms, and boosts the immune system.
To soothe cold symptoms, prepare a hot drink with honey and cinnamon and sip it throughout the day. Both ingredients also support the management of diabetes, as moderate honey consumption does not significantly raise blood sugar levels.
For a simple remedy, mix a teaspoon of raw honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon in a cup of warm water.
Clogged Arteries
A 2010 study published in the Journal of Diabetes Technology Society found that cinnamon essential oil reduced harmful triglycerides in the blood by 30%, as well as LDL (“bad”) cholesterol by 27%. High LDL cholesterol is one of the main contributors to cardiovascular diseases.
Arthritis Relief
Patients with arthritis may benefit from a daily drink made with two tablespoons of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon powder in warm water. According to Buzz Ghana, a study at the University of Copenhagen revealed that when patients were given this mixture, 73 out of 200 individuals experienced complete relief from pain within a week. Within a month, many patients who could not walk or move due to arthritis were able to walk without pain.
Allergy Relief
Raw honey has immune-boosting properties that help alleviate allergy symptoms. Dust mites, a leading cause of household allergies, can be combated using cinnamon. Cinnamon bark and leaf oils have been found to be more effective at killing dust mites than conventional chemical solutions like benzyl benzoate. Simply mix cinnamon oil with distilled water in a spray bottle and apply it to curtains, mattresses, and bedding.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary Tract Infections
A study published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences found that cinnamon is the fourth most powerful herb for combating urinary tract infections, among 28 tested herbal extracts.
Increased Energy
Cinnamon has an insulin-boosting effect, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides energy. Honey is also a natural source of sugars, antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which help fight fatigue and recharge the body.
Digestive Problems
Honey and cinnamon are excellent for treating digestive issues like ulcers, constipation, and nausea, and they help combat bacterial infections such as E. coli and H. pylori.
Natural Acne Treatment
Cinnamon and honey have long been used as natural remedies for acne and other skin conditions due to their strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Cinnamon kills Staphylococcus epidermidis, a common acne-causing bacteria, while honey has been used for centuries as a skincare product. It helps soothe burns, wounds, dandruff, and psoriasis, and can prevent wrinkles while improving overall skin health.
For acne treatment, mix one tablespoon of raw organic honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon and apply the paste to the affected area. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
Weight Loss
This dynamic combination can aid in weight loss by speeding up metabolism, curbing food cravings, and stimulating fat-burning processes in the body.
Gingivitis
Honey and cinnamon are beneficial for oral health. Studies have shown that using a Manuka honey product resulted in a 35% reduction in plaque and bleeding sites in people with gingivitis.
Important Tips and Warnings
Becky Bell, MS, RD, offers some advice:
Honey: The best way to incorporate honey into your diet is to use it as a sugar replacement. Be sure to buy unfiltered honey, as processed supermarket honey lacks health benefits. While honey is “less harmful” than regular sugar, it still contains sugar, so consume it in moderation.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which can be toxic in large quantities. Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon. It’s best to choose Ceylon cinnamon, but if you use Cassia cinnamon, limit your intake to 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 to 2 grams) daily. You can safely consume up to 1 teaspoon (about 5 grams) of Ceylon cinnamon per day.