Cinnamon and honey are two of nature’s most powerful and versatile foods. When combined, they form an excellent remedy for treating a wide range of health problems. From treating cold symptoms to improving skin conditions, this natural duo has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Even modern science continues to discover new health benefits linked to cinnamon and honey, making it a perfect combination for those who seek natural remedies. This article will dive deeper into the many health benefits of cinnamon and honey and why they are considered one of the most powerful combinations nature has to offer.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon and Honey
1. Cold Relief
Cinnamon and honey are packed with antioxidants, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties that make them effective in treating the common cold and flu. Honey, particularly raw honey, has been shown to suppress coughs, treat the flu, and boost the immune system. When combined with cinnamon, it creates a powerful natural remedy for treating cold symptoms.
To soothe the symptoms of a cold, prepare a warm drink using honey and cinnamon and sip it throughout the day. Both ingredients work together to prevent and treat diabetes as well, with moderate honey consumption not causing a significant rise in blood sugar levels.
How to Use:
Take a cup of warm water, add one teaspoon of raw honey, and one teaspoon of cinnamon. Drink this mixture once or twice daily for relief from cold symptoms.
2. Blocked Arteries
A study published in the Journal of Diabetes Technology Society in 2010 revealed that cinnamon essential oil reduces harmful triglycerides in the blood by 30% and LDL (bad cholesterol) by 27%. These two elements are often seen as contributing factors to cardiovascular diseases, including blocked arteries. By regularly consuming cinnamon and honey, you can lower these risk factors, promote better heart health, and reduce the chance of developing heart disease.
How to Use:
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and honey to warm water or tea to help improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risks associated with blocked arteries.
3. Arthritis Relief
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints and can be quite debilitating. A study conducted at the University of Copenhagen found that people who took a mixture of one tablespoon of honey and half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon before breakfast experienced significant pain relief. In fact, out of 200 people treated in the study, 73 people were completely relieved of their arthritis pain within a week. Over time, many patients who could not walk or move due to arthritis were able to walk without pain.
How to Use:
To treat arthritis, drink a cup of warm water with two tablespoons of honey and a teaspoon of ground cinnamon every day. This remedy can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility over time.
4. Allergy Relief
Honey has been found to strengthen the immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms. Raw honey, in particular, contains pollen particles that may help desensitize the body to allergens. Additionally, dust mites are a major cause of indoor allergies. Instead of using chemical-laden products to combat dust mites, which can worsen allergies, cinnamon can be an effective alternative.
Studies have shown that cinnamon essential oil is more effective than other chemicals in destroying dust mites. It has been proven to be 2.5 times more effective than benzyl benzoate, a common chemical used to kill dust mites.
How to Use:
For relief from allergies, mix cinnamon essential oil or cinnamon bark oil with distilled water in a spray bottle. Spritz this mixture on your curtains, bedding, and furniture to eliminate dust mites.
5. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
A study published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences found that cinnamon is one of the most powerful plants against urinary tract infections (UTIs). With its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, cinnamon can help fight the bacteria that cause UTIs. When combined with honey, it becomes an even more potent natural remedy.
How to Use:
Take one teaspoon of honey with a pinch of cinnamon every day to help prevent and treat urinary tract infections.
6. Increased Energy
Cinnamon has a powerful insulin-stimulating effect that helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides energy to the body. Honey, a rich source of natural sugars and antioxidants, also helps combat fatigue and revitalize the body. The combination of these two ingredients can help boost your energy levels, particularly for those dealing with chronic fatigue or low energy.
How to Use:
Mix honey and cinnamon in warm water and drink it in the morning to start your day with a burst of energy.
7. Digestive Problems
Cinnamon and honey work effectively to treat digestive issues like ulcers, constipation, and nausea. They can also combat infections caused by E. coli and the bacteria H. pylori. These two ingredients help to regulate the digestive system and prevent discomfort related to digestive disorders.
How to Use:
For digestive health, mix a teaspoon of cinnamon with a tablespoon of honey in warm water. Drink it before or after meals to promote healthy digestion.
8. Natural Acne Treatment
For centuries, cinnamon and honey have been used to treat acne and other skin conditions due to their potent antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Cinnamon has been shown to destroy Staphylococcus epidermidis, the type of bacteria that often causes acne. Honey, particularly raw honey, has been used as a cosmetic product since ancient times for its ability to soothe burns, wounds, and skin irritations.
How to Use:
To treat acne, mix one tablespoon of raw organic honey with a teaspoon of cinnamon and apply the paste to the affected area. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
9. Weight Loss
This powerful combination can contribute to weight loss by accelerating metabolism, curbing cravings, and stimulating fat-burning processes in the body. The natural sugars in honey provide quick energy, while the cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the storage of excess fat.
How to Use:
For weight loss, drink a cup of warm water with one teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of cinnamon every morning to kickstart your metabolism.
10. Gingivitis and Oral Health
Honey and cinnamon can work wonders for your oral health. Research has shown that chewing or sucking on a product made from Manuka honey can reduce plaque by 35% and decrease bleeding sites by 35% in people with gingivitis. Both honey and cinnamon have natural antibacterial properties that help combat the bacteria that cause oral infections and gum disease.
How to Use:
To combat gingivitis, chew a piece of Manuka honey or gargle with a mixture of cinnamon and honey in warm water.
Important Considerations
While honey and cinnamon offer numerous health benefits, it is essential to use them properly. Becky Bell, MS, Dt.P., advises replacing refined sugar with honey in your diet to maximize health benefits. However, it’s important to buy unfiltered, raw honey, as highly processed honey often lacks the nutrients that provide health benefits.
It is also important to note that cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which can be toxic in large amounts. Cassia cinnamon, the most commonly used variety, has higher levels of coumarin compared to Ceylon cinnamon. Therefore, it is better to purchase Ceylon cinnamon, but if you opt for the Cassia variety, limit your daily intake to half a teaspoon (0.5 to 2 grams). Ceylon cinnamon is safer, and you can safely consume up to one teaspoon (about 5 grams) per day.
Conclusion
The combination of cinnamon and honey is one of the most potent natural remedies available today. From relieving cold symptoms to improving heart health, fighting infections, and promoting weight loss, these two ingredients have been proven to support a wide range of health conditions. Whether you’re using it for its antibacterial properties, its ability to regulate blood sugar, or its digestive benefits, incorporating cinnamon and honey into your daily routine can help you improve your overall health in a natural, effective way.
As with all natural remedies, it is important to use these ingredients in moderation and to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, especially if you are taking medication or have underlying health conditions. By using cinnamon and honey wisely, you can tap into the incredible healing power of nature’s most versatile foods.
