Cinnamon.
It is one of my very favorite spices. I love it in
pies, cider, on toast in the morning, or warm buttered carrots with an evening
meal.
I know when I think about fall, my olfactory senses are
drawn to the calming aroma of cinnamon that seems to permeate the air. We have
a huge craft fair in a neighboring town every September. People stand in long
lines for the chance to buy a dozen of the best cider donuts you could ever
hope to taste.
The tantalizing scent of cinnamon wafting around the grounds makes
the long line tolerable. It seems to calm the masses which may have waited
patiently for their reward after what seems like quite a lengthy time.
Yes, cinnamon is a very popular spice.
However, few people realize that cinnamon is also a very
powerful essential oil that provides people with a great deal of health
benefits.
When diffused in the air, cinnamon essential oil can
encourage self-acceptance and self-esteem. It is also a natural aphrodisiac and
boosts sexual confidence. Cinnamon is said to possess emotional healing
qualities that allow an individual to release pain from severe disappointments
and trauma. In addition, Cinnamon also helps create a feeling of safety and security.
It has a natural soothing effect on people who are feeling jealous, insecure,
obsessive or controlling. The spicy, warm scent can help support both healthy
relationships and health boundaries.
Here are some other common uses for Cinnamon Essential Oil:
Airborne and
bacterial infections: Diffuse this oil during cold and flu season, or add
to a cotton ball and stick in your car's vent while you drive. At home diffuse
cinnamon in the air or use it topically to prevent or assist in the treatment
of infections.
Breathing: For
respiratory issues, diffuse Cinnamon in the air. You can also dilute it with a
carrier oil and apply it to the chest and neck.
Cooking: Cinnamon
oil is can be used in cooking. Start off with only a small amount – just a
single drop – because it is quite potent and you don’t want to “over-season”
you food. Once you are comfortable with the potency, you can alter the amount
you add.
Immune System
Booster: Diffuse throughout cold and flu season, within your workplace or
add to the bath or steam tent when you feel ill.
Special note – Never apply cinnamon directly to the skin
unless it has been diluted with a carrier oil. Doing so may cause individuals
with sensitive skin to experience irritation. In addition, none of these health
benefits have been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Cinnamon oil should not be
used in place of sound personal judgment or medical treatment when needed.
