The sweet spice

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Cinnamon is a popular spice in the culinary world, but where else can you use it?

By Nisthula Nagarajan

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Published: Thu 25 Feb 2021, 11:23 AM

When thinking of a signature winter smell, cinnamon is one of the first that comes to mind. There aren't many scents in this world that are as enticing as the baking of cinnamon buns. While it has a variety of applications in the kitchen, the spice was discovered almost 5,000 years ago, and its uses have evolved beyond the culinary kind.

Breathe in sweetness


Make your own air freshener with a special concoction of nutmeg, cinnamon (sticks or ground), pumpkin pie spice, ground cloves and zested oranges. Combine ingredients and heat in a pan with water. Use it in your car, home or office. The scent of cinnamon has been shown to improve alertness and reduce anxiety.

Quicken hair growth


A cinnamon massage may be just what your scalp needs. Stimulate hair growth by combining equal parts of powdered cinnamon and honey and applying it to problem areas. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then wash as usual. It helps to remove build-up and promotes the growth of healthier follicles and in turn healthy hair.

Curb Cravings

There's a reason why cinnamon is an essential baking ingredient and a staple with sweet breakfast items. It can help regulate your blood sugar and prevent those midday sugar cravings. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on your morning oatmeal or in your cup of coffee.

Antimicrobial goodness

Because cinnamon has antimicrobial properties, it is a popular natural remedy to treat medical conditions. For example, to treat athlete's foot, boil 10 cinnamon sticks in four cups of water. Let the mixture cool, and then soak your feet for about 20 minutes. Repeat as needed. You can also use cinnamon essential oils diluted in water for the same.

Keep nausea at bay

When consumed in small doses the antioxidants found in cinnamon can help soothe nausea. Make a simple cinnamon tea by boiling one cinnamon stick in a cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain, then drink warm. It will cleanse your system and get rid of any gastro problems.


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