6 Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Cinnamon (+ 3 Detox Water Recipes)

Cinnamon, one of the most commonly used spices today, has been used for thousands of years for medicinal and culinary purposes. It is believed that the Egyptians were the first to use this spice over four thousand years ago. (1)

Cinnamon has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, but recent studies have confirmed that cinnamon offers detox benefits. Let’s get into those benefits—and the cinnamon detox water recipes!

7 Health Benefits of Cinnamon

1. Cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory agents.

Even though many people think that inflammation is an annoying but harmless product of age, many severe illnesses—including heart disease, digestive concerns and arthritis—have roots in uncontrolled inflammation. Cinnamon contains multiple anti-inflammatory agents that can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. (2)

2. Cinnamon may lower your risk of developing cancer.

Every year, over one million people are diagnosed with some type of cancer in the United States. (3) Additionally, we are exposed to potential carcinogens every day that increase our risk of developing cancer. Studies have shown that cinnamon, specifically the cassia variety, works to stop tumor growth without negatively impacting healthy cells surrounding the tumor. Cinnamon is also full of antioxidants, which can help prevent tumors from growing in the first place. (4)

3. Cinnamon may provide protection against cardiovascular diseases.

The heart is an incredibly hard working organ. As such, it is vulnerable to many ailments and diseases. Regular consumption of cinnamon can help your heart health in a couple ways. First, cinnamon works to lower high levels of bad cholesterol, particularly after a fatty meal. Cinnamon can also work to lower high blood pressure levels. Both conditions can lead to increased risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke. (5)

4. Cinnamon may offer protection from diabetes.

Nearly 30 million adults in the United States suffer from type 2 diabetes, with another 80 million adults at risk for developing this disease. (6) While this disease is not curable, there are ways to help prevent and manage this condition.

Many studies (though not all) have suggested that regular cinnamon consumption can lower blood sugar levels by up to 25%. However, it is important to work closely with your doctor to ensure that cinnamon consumption isn’t causing a negative interaction with any medication you are taking for this condition. (7)

5. Cinnamon promotes oral hygiene.

Many people dislike going to the dentist, especially when gum diseases or cavities are involved.

Consuming cinnamon is great for a healthy mouth in two ways. Cinnamon fights inflammation, helping to prevent and fight gum disease. Cinnamon also has antibacterial properties, which help to prevent cavities and foul-smelling breath. (8)

6. Cinnamon can be used to fight allergies.

Come spring, many people become miserable with watery, itchy eyes, stuffy noses, and sneezing attacks due to seasonal allergies. Many people also suffer from allergies year-round due to animal dander and dust mites. Cinnamon works to control some of these allergic reactions and keep you breathing easily. (9)

7. Cinnamon can help you lose weight.

Millions of children and adults in the United States are classified as overweight or obese, yet losing weight can sometimes be particularly difficult. (10) As discussed above, cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, which in turn leads to easier weight loss. Cinnamon also slows down the digestive process, meaning you are left feeling full longer, preventing you from overeating. (11)

Cinnamon can also help prevent sugars from being metabolized into fats. Studies suggest that cinnamon may target belly fat specifically, an area of the body that is particularly stubborn in terms of weight loss and toning. (12) In order to reap the full benefits of cinnamon for weight loss, ensure you are consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, along with plenty of water, detox or not.

Cinnamon Detox Water Recipes

Below are a few ideas for incorporating cinnamon into your detox water recipes. Of course, it is important to continue to eat a healthy diet while consuming homemade detox waters—including cinnamon or not—and not rely on detox waters alone to achieve the results you are seeking.

1. Apple Cinnamon Detox Water

One of the most popular detox water combinations is apple cinnamon detox water. Cinnamon offers a host of health benefits (as discussed above), while apples provide additional vitamins, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are important to keep your body working smoothly.

Add two apples and six cinnamon sticks with two quarts of water and let infuse for at least two hours. You can use a traditional pitcher or a detox water bottle. Remove infused cinnamon sticks and apples; serve with fresh apples and sticks. This mixture will keep in the refrigerator up to two days.

2. Cinnamon Honey Detox Water

Cinnamon and honey are another fantastic detox duo. You can infuse your water with cinnamon and add honey to taste or use two sticks of cinnamon with one cup of boiling water and steep for a few minutes to make a hot tea. Use about one tablespoon of honey for either of these methods or add to taste.

There are a variety of health benefits associated with honey: it aids sleep, is full of antioxidants and is a great source of energy. However, as it is a source of sugar, it is important to remember to use this wonderful ingredient in moderation to avoid unintentional weight gain.

3. Green Tea and Cinnamon

While the ingredients may not seem to work well together, green tea and cinnamon are a great duo for weight loss and detox efforts.

Both are full of antioxidants and fat burning properties to help make the most of your detox water.

Conclusion

Cinnamon offers myriad health benefits with regular consumption. Whether you add it to your morning toast, your coffee, or your detox water, rest assured that you are taking in a host of different health benefits from this fantastic spice.

When consumed in conjunction with a detox diet that is composed of lean protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, cinnamon can promote all over bodily wellness in a variety of ways.