If you don't have cinnamon in your kitchen cupboard, you clearly don't enjoy pancakes. Or French toast. Or Cinnamon Rolls. Or Cinnamon, Honey Oats. Or life, really.
But on a serious note, cinnamon isn't just great in various culinary dishes. Did you know it's also both a powerful ingredient in skincare and is great for improving your overall health?
What is Cinnamon?
Obtained from the Cinnamomum genus tree, Cinnamon has been a staple in cuisine across the world. For centuries, it has also been valued for its medicinal properties, known as a remedy for respiratory and digestive ailments. It was also used to fend off unwanted odours, as it has a lovely fragrance.
There are 4 primary varieties of cinnamon:
- Ceylon cinnamon or Mexican cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
- Indonesian cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmanni)
- Vietnamese cinnamon (Cinnamomum loureiroi)
- Cassia cinnamon or Chinese cinnamon (Cinnamomum aromaticum)
While all these varieties offer a range of health benefits, Ceylon cinnamon is often preferred for its lower coumarin content and mild delicate taste. It can be found in both powder and stick forms, and the tree also produces extractable oils.
Cinnamon Essential Oils: Bark vs. Leaf
Cinnamon essential oil is extracted from either the bark or the leaves of the cinnamon tree, with distinct properties and uses:
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Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil:
- It is extracted from the inner bark.
- It contains cinnamaldehyde, responsible for its warm, spicy aroma and potent antimicrobial properties.
- It is anti-inflammatory and known to boost circulation, as well as boost energy levels. It is also believed to boost brain function. It acts as a natural insect repellent and may aid in reducing stress and anxiety.
-
Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil:
- Extracted from the leaves.
- It is rich in eugenol and has a milder, slightly clove-like scent.
- It is an antiseptic, a strong germicide, an antibiotic, antispasmodic and an astringent. It is also a natural insecticide.
- Commonly used for its pain-relieving properties. It eases breathing difficulties and is a great tonic for the respiratory tract.
How Cinnamon Benefits the Skin
1. Antimicrobial and Acne-Fighting Properties:
Cinnamon's antimicrobial compounds, including cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, can make it effective against acne-causing bacteria. Cinnamon can therefore help to clear blemishes and prevent future breakouts by reducing bacterial growth and inflammation.
2. Boosts Circulation and Glow:
Cinnamon stimulates blood flow to the skin's surface, enhancing its natural glow. It can even act as a natural lip plumper and/or tinter. This increased circulation also helps to promote oxygen and nutrient delivery to skin cells; supporting overall skin health.
3. Anti-Aging Effects:
Rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, cinnamon may help combat oxidative stress and free radical damage, which contribute to premature aging.
4. Exfoliation and Skin Brightening:
Cinnamon's granular texture makes it an excellent natural exfoliant. It helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture for a brighter complexion.
What Does Cinnamon Do to Your Body
Cinnamon is not only a lovely topical treatment for the skin but also a fantastic addition to your diet. Why? It offers various health benefits, including powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and the potential to stabilise blood sugar levels (amongst various other benefits.)
A benefit I am particularly drawn to is the fact that it can also soothe gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and cramps and can even help reduce bloating. In a balanced approach to health, one of my favourite ways to incorporate Cinnamon into my diet is in a simple, Cinnamon comforting tea (see recipe below).
How to Incorporate Cinnamon into Your Diet
Simple, Cinnamon Comforting Tea:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 Cinnamon Stick or 1 tsp ground Ceylon cinnamon
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Steep the cinnamon stick or powder in hot water for 10 minutes.
- Add honey for sweetness, if desired.
- Enjoy warm.
How to Use Cinnamon in Skincare:
Cinnamon bark essential oil can irritate sensitive skin and should never be applied directly to the skin in its undiluted form. While Cinnamon leaf essential oil is also an irritant, it is gentler and can be diluted in a carrier oil before being applied to the skin. Both oils should be used with care.
If you're using cinnamon essential oil, you should always do a patch test on your skin to first check for irritation and allergic reactions before using larger amounts. Do not overuse it as it can cause adverse skin reactions.
- Add 1-2 drops of Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil to a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond oil) for a soothing and warming effect that helps to ease muscle tension and promote circulation.
- Use Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil in diffusers for a rich, spicy aroma that can uplift your mood, reduce stress, and create a cosy ambience.
