Herbs & Herbal Remedies @ Green Papaya

Of course, cinnamon delights the taste buds. But it benefits other parts of the body as well.

Infection Prevention - A sound scientific reason for “flavoring” toothpastes and mouthwash with cinnamon does exist. Like many culinary spices, it’s a powerful antiseptic. It kills many decay- and disease-causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Try sprinkling some on minor cuts and scrapes after they’ve been thoroughly washed.

Perhaps toilet paper should be impregnated with cinnamon. One German study showed it “suppresses completely” the cause of most urinary tract infections (Escherichia coli bacteria) and the fungus (Candida albicans) responsible for vaginal yeast infections.

Pain Relief - There’s another reason to dust a bit of cinnamon on cuts and scrapes-it contains the natural anesthetic oil eugenol, which might help relieve the pain of household mishaps.

Digestive Aid - Cinnamon does more than add flavor to cakes, cookies, ice creams, and other high-fat desserts. Once you’ve consumed these delicacies, the herb helps break down fats in your digestive system, possibly by boosting the activity of some digestive enzymes.

Women’s Health - Despite some modern herbalists’ contention that cinnamon helps calm the uterus, the weight of historical evidence suggests the opposite. Pregnant women should limit their use to culinary amounts. Other women might try it to bring on menstruation or after delivery.

Intriguing Possibility - Japanese researchers report that cinnamon helps reduce blood pressure. If yours is high, it won’t hurt to use more.

Rx for Cinnamon

For a warm, sweet, spicy infusion, use ½ to ¾ teaspoon of powdered herb per cup of boiling water. Drink up to 3 cups a day.

Cinnamon infusions should not be given to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.

To treat minor cuts and scrapes, wash the affected area thoroughly, then sprinkle on a little powdered cinnamon.