It comes as no surprise that honey and cinnamon can be used for medicinal purposes. Both have been documented in some of the world’s oldest medical texts and are ancient remedies for burns and wound care. In fact, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) cites the earliest mention of honey from a Sumerian tablet around 2000 B.C. and was used as an ointment.
Honey and cinnamon combined in either a paste or tea have the potential to fight infection, heal wounds, or even promote healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Because honey and cinnamon are so easy to come by they aren’t often used by doctors to treat ailments, more specifically because there is not enough research on its direct effect. While there are not any specific dosages for cinnamon and honey, WebMD suggests 1 teaspoon of cinnamon per day as a healthy dosage. A good ratio would be three tablespoons of honey per half or one teaspoon of cinnamon.
Weight Loss
There is not enough research to support the old adage that a warm cup of tea with cinnamon and honey every morning will help you lose weight. However, a 2011 study published in Nutritional Research on the NCBI website claims rats that were fed honey had 14.7% less weight gain but consumed 13.3% less food. Cinnamon naturally stimulates the metabolism, while honey has the potential to stave off hunger. Whether it can truly be considered a weight loss method is up to individual discretion.
Lowers Blood Sugar
Maintaining a healthy blood sugar levels is a daily battle for someone with diabetes. Research shows that cinnamon and honey can help lower blood sugar over time for people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. While more studies need to be conducted, the outcome looks hopeful for people with low-risk diabetes and for prevention.
Longevity and Vitality
Because both honey and cinnamon have antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, longevity and vitality are long term benefits of using honey and cinnamon on a daily basis. As little as ½ a teaspoon of cinnamon and a tablespoon of honey in warm water every day can increase energy levels.
Lower Cholesterol
The same studies published by the NCBI on blood sugar claim that cinnamon and honey reduce both total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is “bad” cholesterol that causes health complications for most people if the level is not controlled.
Digestive Health
Fear no more the taste of typical antacids. Cinnamon and honey help soothe acid reflux, prevent and heal ulcers, and can be used to treat a number of common stomach symptoms, such as diarrhea. The viscosity of the honey and antioxidants helps to prevent infection, while the cinnamon works as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory.
Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
High cholesterol and high blood pressure are both risk factors for heart disease. Honey and cinnamon have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides which are the cause of both high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Honey and cinnamon also have the potential to raise high-density cholesterol by 2% according to Authority Nutrition.com.
Boosts the Immune System
If there was ever doubt that cinnamon and honey are naturally occurring healers—cinnamon and honey have a promising effect for people with autoimmune or chronic diseases. Cinnamon and honey both contain antioxidants that help fight radicals in the body. They have the potential to prevent cancer and ease the effects of some chronic illnesses.
Skin Treatment
Burns be gone—honey and cinnamon mixed as a paste can be applied to burns or irritated areas on the skin to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial infection. There is a rumor that’s been floating around that claims cinnamon and honey can also be used to treat acne, but there is no evidence to date that supports that theory.
While all-purpose honey and cinnamon are available at most supermarkets, one study from the NCBI suggests using Ceylon cinnamon versus cassia cinnamon, though it is harder to obtain. Another meta-study on honey recommends Manuka honey, which is harvested in Sri-Lanka. Just be weary not to use over one teaspoon of cinnamon per day. Cassia has water retention properties, and if dehydration occurs, it can cause liver damage. Always consult a doctor if you think you have a condition that may need specialized treatment.
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Sources:[Authority Nutrition, Healthline, Healthy Food House, NCBI, NCBI, NCBI, NCBI, NCBI, Organic Facts, PEAS Health]
