Urinary Tract Infections
A study published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences found that cinnamon is the fourth most powerful herb for combating urinary tract infections, among 28 tested herbal extracts.
Increased Energy
Cinnamon has an insulin-boosting effect, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides energy. Honey is also a natural source of sugars, antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which help fight fatigue and recharge the body.
Digestive Problems
Honey and cinnamon are excellent for treating digestive issues like ulcers, constipation, and nausea, and they help combat bacterial infections such as E. coli and H. pylori.
Natural Acne Treatment
Cinnamon and honey have long been used as natural remedies for acne and other skin conditions due to their strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Cinnamon kills Staphylococcus epidermidis, a common acne-causing bacteria, while honey has been used for centuries as a skincare product. It helps soothe burns, wounds, dandruff, and psoriasis, and can prevent wrinkles while improving overall skin health.
For acne treatment, mix one tablespoon of raw organic honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon and apply the paste to the affected area. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing off.
Weight Loss
This dynamic combination can aid in weight loss by speeding up metabolism, curbing food cravings, and stimulating fat-burning processes in the body.
Gingivitis
Honey and cinnamon are beneficial for oral health. Studies have shown that using a Manuka honey product resulted in a 35% reduction in plaque and bleeding sites in people with gingivitis.
Important Tips and Warnings
Becky Bell, MS, RD, offers some advice:
Honey: The best way to incorporate honey into your diet is to use it as a sugar replacement. Be sure to buy unfiltered honey, as processed supermarket honey lacks health benefits. While honey is "less harmful" than regular sugar, it still contains sugar, so consume it in moderation.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which can be toxic in large quantities. Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin than Ceylon cinnamon. It’s best to choose Ceylon cinnamon, but if you use Cassia cinnamon, limit your intake to 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 to 2 grams) daily. You can safely consume up to 1 teaspoon (about 5 grams) of Ceylon cinnamon per day.