Cinnamon
CINNAMON | CANELA
Cinnamon is the sweet, spicy, roll-it-up-in-everything bark that has been flavoring food, preserving bodies, and stoking economies for over 4,000 years. Native to Sri Lanka, India, and parts of Southeast Asia, cinnamon isn’t just a cozy spice, it was once considered so valuable it sparked wars, global exploration, and major trade monopolies. In fact, during the ancient world’s spice craze, cinnamon was worth more than gold. Literally.
In Ancient Egypt, cinnamon was used for embalming, ritual offerings, and perfumed oils. Egyptians believed it had protective spiritual properties and included it in the most sacred rites. Meanwhile, in China, it was recorded in herbal medicine as early as 2800 BCE in the Shennong Bencao Jing, where it was used to stimulate circulation, warm the body, and treat conditions related to “cold” imbalances- think low energy, poor digestion, or aching joints.
The Greeks and Romans were obsessed with it too. Hippocrates, Pliny the Elder, and Dioscorides all wrote about cinnamon’s medicinal powers- particularly its role as a digestive aid, aphrodisiac, and treatment for colds and coughs. But for centuries, the actual origin of cinnamon was a tightly guarded secret by spice traders who spun all kinds of fantastical stories about where it came from (including giant cinnamon birds that nested on cliffs). This mystery kept demand high and prices even higher.
During the Middle Ages, cinnamon remained a staple in European apothecaries and kitchens. It was believed to balance the humors, warm the blood, and drive out illness. By the time the Age of Exploration rolled around, cinnamon was one of the key motivators behind voyages to the East—Portugal and later the Dutch and British fought bitterly to control cinnamon-growing regions, especially in Sri Lanka.
Today, cinnamon is still one of the most widely used and studied medicinal spices in the world. And yes, while we love it in chai lattes, cinnamon rolls, and apple cider, it’s also a potent herbal medicine with a long track record of supporting blood sugar regulation, inflammation, digestion, and immune health. And don’t forget, there are two main types: Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum: the “true” cinnamon, with more health benefits, milder and sweeter), and cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia: more popular, spicier and more intense, often used in commercial products).
From sacred incense smoke to blood sugar support, cinnamon’s story is spicy, sacred, and sweet all at once. It’s not just a seasoning- it’s a global herbal icon with ancient wisdom rolled up in every curl of bark.
Medicinal Uses of Cinnamon
Blood Sugar Regulation
Helps lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity
Used as a supportive herb for managing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome
Especially effective in combination with other blood sugar-balancing herbs
Digestive Support
Stimulates digestion, eases bloating, gas, and cramping
Helps relieve nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea
Supports the breakdown of heavy or fatty foods
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, which help reduce inflammation in the body
Used for joint pain, arthritis, and chronic inflammatory conditions
Antimicrobial and Antifungal
Fights bacteria, fungi, and viruses—especially Candida, E. coli, and Staphylococcus
Used internally and externally to prevent and treat infections
Circulatory Stimulant
Warms the body and promotes healthy blood flow
Used for cold hands and feet, poor circulation, and low energy due to cold conditions
Supports cardiovascular function
Immune System Booster
Stimulates the immune response and helps the body fight colds, flu, and respiratory infections
Often combined with ginger, clove, or honey for winter wellness blends
Menstrual and Reproductive Support
Traditionally used to ease menstrual cramps, regulate periods, and warm the womb
Acts as a mild uterine stimulant, supporting healthy menstrual flow (used with care)
Antioxidant Protection
Rich in polyphenols, cinnamon helps protect cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage
Supports healthy aging and chronic disease prevention
Mild Pain Relief
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions make it helpful for headaches, muscle tension, and minor aches
Oral Health Support
Antibacterial properties support gum health and fresh breath
Used in natural tooth powders and mouthwashes
Mood and Cognitive Support
Warming and stimulating properties may help with mental fog, fatigue, and low mood
Associated with improved alertness and memory