Cinnamon Use in Ancient Rome and Today

Cinnamon is one of the oldest known spices, and in the Ancient World it was worth more than gold. Its medicinal properties are astounding. In Ancient Rome, cinnamon was useful in the treatment of inflammation, poisonous bites, and menstrual disorders. It was very helpful in treating the symptoms of the common cold or flu, as well as other respiratory infections. Cinnamon was also claimed to be an exceptional cough medicine.

To fight infection, it was known for its antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties, and was often applied externally to wounds, and troublesome skin conditions. Cinnamon was also used in embalming procedures. Body cavities were filled with sweet smelling spices.

During childbirth, mothers were given cinnamon, as a sedative, to help with the pain and discomfort. It was commonly used for gastro-intestinal upsets, such as indigestion, nausea and diarrhea, and it was recognized as a good digestive aid. Many people today take cinnamon as a treatment for acid reflux.

Cinnamon has stimulant properties, and was used to warm the body, and aid in circulation. It was applied as an astringent, and as a parasitic treatment. It was also used in food preservation.

It is derived from a small laurel-like evergreen tree, and the spice is in the bark. When the outer bark is peeled away, the inner bark is rolled into small quills. Cinnamon is often also ground into powder, and can be used as an essential oil. The cinnamon leaf is hazardous, and can cause convulsions if taken in high doses.

Today, cinnamon is used in most of the previously mentioned ways, as well as some new applications. Probably the latest medical use of cinnamon is in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. New research has found it to be very effective in lowering blood sugar. It can lower cholesterol, strengthen the cardiovascular system, and aid in curing yeast infections. Cinnamon has also been used in the treatment of leukemia, and lymphoma. It helps to stop bleeding, and is especially effective in the treatment of nosebleeds. Muscle and joint pain can be helped by cinnamon, and it is also being used to treat arthritis. Cinnamon is very helpful in the treatment of bronchitis and sore throat pain. The cardiovascular system is strengthened by cinnamon ingestion. Perhaps some of the most exciting research has been in the area of cognitive thinking. Chewing cinnamon flavored gum, or even just the scent of cinnamon, improves brain function, particularly in the area of memory, and visual-motor speed.

It appears that cinnamon is good for just about everything, and may be one of the closest natural treatments we have, to a miracle drug.

Sources: http://www.vegetarian-nutrition.info/herbs/cinnamon.php
http://ezinearticles.com/?Cinnamon---More-Valuable-Than-Gold&id=814751
http://ezinearticles.com/?Spices-for-the-Sick:-Ginger-and-Cinnamon&id=213980
http://www.oldcook.com/en/medieval_spices.htm#cin
http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/18-facts-about-cinnamon.html
http://www.monumentalmassage.com/articles/benefits_of_cinnamon.html