6 of 10

Write now Article Tools

Health benefits of cinnamon and honey

More and more people are now moving away from medication towards getting healthier the natural way. Rather than reach for over-the-counter medication for common ailments, many are looking at items they have in their kitchens to provide them with relief.

I have been medication-free since 1999. In educating myself about the natural way to heal myself of common ailments, I have read numerous books and articles, and tried many remedies.

I'm not a medical professional but I hope to share some of the knowledge I have gained about the health benefits of two ingredients my wife and I have used effectively over the years honey and cinnamon.

Everyone loves honey. While some use it in cooking, I prefer it spread on my bread and as a sugar substitute for my tea. That's before I read about the many other benefits honey offers.

Now I use honey to soothe my throat when it is sore. Not by itself. I mix a tablespoon of honey with warm water and squeeze a lemon, cut in half, in the mixture. I drink it at least three times a day and it eases the soreness in my throat. Tastes good too.

I have read that honey, taken before bedtime helps us relax and induces sleep. I do take a tablespoon of honey mixed with some warm water before I sleep but I cannot vouch for its effectiveness in helping people overcome insomnia, since I have always been able to sleep well.

Another use of honey I have found helpful is when I eat more than I should, which is quite often. To help me ease the discomfort caused by indigestion, I usually take warm water with a tablespoon of honey.

Some of the benefits that honey is said to have are antiseptic and antioxidant properties. It has been used for centuries because of its healing attributes, and fights infections, heals cuts, and treats diarrhea, stomach ulcers and sinus problems, among others.

Some writers also claim that honey can be used as a beauty aid and nourishes the skin and hair because it contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Maybe there's truth in it. Just exercise caution and rely on good ol' common sense when deciding to try anything new.

I've always known cinnamon as just a spice until I came across some articles promoting the health benefits of it.

One claim that caught my attention was that research has shown cinnamon to be beneficial in treating Type 2 diabetes. My mom has been a diabetic for over 15 years so this was one benefit I was keen to explore.

It was suggested that adding a cinnamon stick to tea would help manage sugar levels. My mom tried it and to a certain extent it did help her lower her blood sugar level. Be careful not to consume too much too soon as the sudden lowering of your sugar level may cause you to feel light-headed as I have felt on some occasions.

Cinnamon has extremely high anti-oxidant activity and studies have shown that cinnamon, consumed in small amounts can lower LDL, which is the bad cholesterol in our bodies.

I've also read that cinnamon can be used to clean wounds because it has antiseptic properties. Other health benefits that cinnamon is reported to provide include aiding digestion, treating diarrhea and headaches, easing the common cold and eliminating bad breath.

Although there are many health benefits associated with honey and cinnamon, do not use them in place of your medication. Only a medical professional who knows your medical history can be in a position to do that.

Learn more about this author, Kenneth Ang.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Health benefits of cinnamon and honey?
We want to hear your view. Write now!