The Benefits and Functions of Cinnamon
When we casually pick up a can of cinnamon powder in the kitchen, do we ever think about the wisdom of millenniums of food and medicine that this warm brown powder carries? As the dried bark of the Lauraceae plant, cinnamon is not only a baking spice but also a warming medicinal herb recorded in traditional Chinese medicine texts. Modern research has also discovered that the cinnamaldehyde and polyphenols it contains are subtly affecting human health.
Five Health Values of Cinnamon
Natural Protector of the Nervous System
Cinnamaldehyde can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and stimulate the production of neurotrophic factors. Experiments at Harvard Medical School have shown that participants who consumed 1 gram of cinnamon powder daily had a 13% increase in reaction speed in cognitive tests, which is closely related to the mechanism of promoting hippocampal neuron connections.
Double-effect Metabolic Regulation Mechanism
Cinnamon polyphenols can mimic the effects of insulin, increasing glucose absorption by 20 times. Combined with its ability to promote the activity of brown adipose tissue, it forms a double metabolic regulation of "sugar control + fat burning." It is recommended to mix 2 grams of cinnamon powder with oatmeal for breakfast.
Expert in Oral Ecosystem Balance
Cinnamon extract has an inhibitory rate of 92% against Porphyromonas gingivalis, and its antibacterial effect lasts 3 hours longer than mouthwash. Chewing cinnamon sticks can release 37% more active ingredients compared to using cinnamon powder alone.
Natural Regulator of the Digestive System
Eugenol in cinnamon oil can increase the number of bifidobacteria in the intestines and improve dysbiosis. For patients with irritable bowel syndrome, drinking cinnamon tea for 4 consecutive weeks can reduce the incidence of abdominal bloating by 68%.
Important Warnings for Using Cinnamon
Principle of Compatibility with Constitution
Those with yin deficiency and excessive fire may experience mouth ulcers and worsened constipation. It is recommended to combine it with yin-nourishing herbs like Ophiopogon japonicus or Dendrobium, with a ratio of 1:5 to balance the medicinal properties.
Contraindications for Special Populations
Pregnant women should not exceed 0.5 grams of cinnamon intake daily, as excessive amounts may cause uterine contractions. Patients who have undergone gynecological surgery need to avoid it for at least 2 weeks, as its anticoagulant properties may prolong the recovery period.
Seasonal Use Guidelines
In the summer, it is recommended to use the "cinnamon cold soak method": soak cinnamon sticks with mint leaves in the refrigerator for 6 hours, which can retain active ingredients and avoid adding heat.
From the longevity secrets of ancient Roman nobility to the spice jars of modern families, cinnamon has always sought a balance between safety and efficacy. Mastering a safe daily dose of 3 grams and combining it with a scientific consumption method, this ancient spice will continue to exude its unique charm in modern health management.