Family:

Lauraceae

 

Part Used:

Inner bark.

 

Energetics & Taste:

Spicy, aromatic, sweet, drying, heating.

 

Habitat:

Native to South America and prefers warm and moist climates.

 

Key Benefits:

Cinnamon is commonly found in herbal blood sugar formulas because it effectively decreases blood sugar and lipids. It reduces insulin resistance, making it supportive for diabetes and metabolic syndrome. As a warming stimulant, cinnamon increases blood flow, aiding in peripheral circulation, which makes it effective for easing period cramps, varicose veins, and arthritis. Topically, it can also be applied to sore muscles.

Cinnamon strongly impacts the digestive system, notably when digestive heat is lacking. It can help with digestive issues such as lack of appetite, cold colic, and indigestion, and its astringent action makes it helpful for diarrhea as an antiviral and antibacterial. Cinnamon can be added to interstitial viruses, colds, and flu formulas. Its astringent properties also make it beneficial as a mouth rinse for gum disease.

 

Contraindications:

Do not use large doses for an extended period or large doses in pregnancy.