Cinnamon is one of the oldest known spices that is prepared by the bark of the cinnamon tree being dried and rolled into sticks called quills. The essential oil in the bark gives cinnamon its distinctive flavor and nutritional properties. Chinese societies have used cinnamon medicinally for more than 4,000 years.
Recent studies have found that cinnamon may support blood sugar already in the normal range, and may also contain antibacterial and antifungal properties. Cinnamon also contains catechins, powerful antioxidants that may help promote overall digestive and colon health. Cinnamon is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron and calcium.
Cassia cinnamon, the kind of cinnamon normally found in grocery stores and in supplement form, naturally contains a compound called coumarin. At high levels, coumarin can damage the liver by having a "blood-thinning" effect, so cassia cinnamon supplements shouldn't be taken with prescription anti-clotting medication, such as Coumadin (warfarin), or by people with bleeding disorders or pregnant women.
Cinnamon is also believed to boost brain activity, visual motor skills and memory…so sprinkle on the cinnamon!
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