Never thought cinnamon could be good for your skin and hair? Enjoy discovering the amazing Cinnamon Benefits for Skin and Hair health in this article.
What is Cinnamon Good For?
Cinnamon is a hot and spicy herb used in cooking, medicinal purposes, and home remedies. Cinnamon belonging to the family of plants called the Anthozoa. This herb has been used for centuries in many Asian dishes, although it can also be found in other dishes from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean.
Cinnamon has been used as a spice since ancient times. It is also known as Cinnamomum zeylanicum.
The cinnamon tree grows up to six inches and has three-inch long, fragrant white flowers. It can be found in whole form, ground, or as a dried extract.
Cinnamon Benefits on Your Health
The bark from this tree contains cinnamic acid which is an antioxidant. This compound helps prevent cancer cells from multiplying. It also helps reduce cholesterol levels. Cinnamon is also beneficial for skin health. It reduces inflammation and speeds up healing. It also improves blood circulation. Cinnamon is good for hair too. It promotes healthy scalp and hair growth.
Cinnamon is also helpful for weight loss. It stimulates metabolism and burns fat. It also helps control appetite. Cinnamon is also effective against colds and flu. It boosts immunity and fights infections. It also helps lower blood pressure.
Cinnamon has many uses in cooking and baking. It adds flavor to breads, cakes, cookies, muffins, pancakes, waffles, and other baked goods. It is also added to beverages, sauces, soups, stews, and gravies.
Top 11 Cinnamon Benefits for Skin and Hair, and beyond
1. Cinnamon Enhances Skin Health
Protects the skin due to its antioxidant properties against free radical damage from the sun and other sources. Cinnamon is good for skin and hair. Cinnamon contains vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant that promotes healthy cell growth and inhibits the oxidative processes that damage cells.
Vitamin C also increases collagen production which tightens the skin. A study conducted in 2007 at the University of California, Los Angeles found that supplementing with vitamin C improves wrinkles by reducing collagen degradation in the skin. Cinnamon also soothes skin irritations and insect bites.
2. Cinnamon Improves Hair Health
Cinnamon’s major benefit is that it contains antimicrobial compounds called phenols. These antioxidants give cinnamon a powerful effect on cells and the immune system, which can help to fight inflammation related to baldness and hair loss. Cinnamon helps to prevent dandruff and promote healthy scalp conditions.
Cinnamon was also shown to help hair grow faster by 80% and it’s also said to promote hair health, it also can help to reduce oil production on the scalp, which in turn can prevent hair loss.
3. Cinnamon Protects Your Eyes
Cinnamon is great for eyes health. It helps in keeping the moisture in the eyes and keeps moisture on your eyelids. Cinnamon contains the antioxidants Zeaxanthin and Lutein, which both are good for eyes health. Cinnamon is also part of the chemical formula of some eye medications.
Since cinnamon is a natural anti-inflammatory, it helps to control inflammation in the eye. The more cinnamon you eat in moderation, the less pain you will experience from dry eyes. This is because it prevents several inflammation fighters from the body and prevent them from reaching your eyes.
Cinnamon promotes circulation of blood to the eyes, which in turn helps to keep your eyes hydrated.
4. Cinnamon Lowers the Risk of Heart Diseases
Cinnamon is one of the richest sources of antioxidants and polyphenols in the world. It contains chemicals called quinides that seem to protect LDL cholesterol against oxidation, which may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Cinnamon has been found to lower blood pressure, and associated with anti-inflammatory effects among other benefits.
In one study, people who ingested cinnamon daily had lower levels of blood cholesterol and triglycerides after 12 weeks. Cinnamon also enhances blood circulation, thus providing a boost to your immune system.
5. Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar
Cinnamon has a well-known ability to lower blood sugar levels naturally. Cinnamon is a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes because it activates your fat cells to burn off more fat and help increase insulin sensitivity, which lowers blood sugar levels. However, too much can cause your blood sugar to spike.
It’s safer to have a small amount of cinnamon if you are diabetic. Speak to your doctor before considering cinnamon in your diet.
6. Cinnamon Relieves from Morning Sickness
Morning sickness can be a bothersome and painful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. There are a number of natural remedies that can help ease the pain and discomfort while also preventing morning sickness. One such remedy is cinnamon, which has been shown to reduce nausea.
The tangy taste of cinnamon mixes well with other foods to help improve their flavor. If you are pregnant and suffer from morning sickness, talk to your doctor before considering cinnamon in your diet.
7. Cinnamon Reduces Body Inflammation and Joint Pain
Cinnamon has been used for years in traditional medicine to help with inflammation. New studies have shown that cinnamon has the ability to reduce the uric acid and to reduce joint pain and inflammation in arthritis patients.
One study even showed that cinnamon was just as effective as an anti inflammatory drug, but with less side effects.
8. Cinnamon Improves Digestion
Cinnamon is commonly used to improve digestion by stimulating the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Cinnamon can help to improve digestion by aiding the process of breaking down food.
It is also known to have antimicrobial properties, which can help to fight off foodborne illnesses and fighting the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers.
9. Cinnamon Fights Cancer
Cinnamon is a powerful spice that can be used to fight cancer. It has been shown in studies to inhibit tumor growth and help prevent the spread of cancer cells. It also contains properties that can make blood clots less likely to form, which helps prevent the spread of a tumor or other condition.
One study showed that cinnamon was able to kill leukemia cells in vitro by triggering apoptosis. This means that cinnamon is a natural way to kill cancer cells before they have had the chance to develop into more deadly cells.
10. Cinnamon Eases Sinus Pain and Headaches
Following a recent study that revealed how cinnamon can help with sinus pain and headaches, many people are turning to this delicious spice to alleviate their symptoms.
The study was conducted by Dr. Jennifer Wu of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry who found that patients who supplemented their diet with ground cinnamon experienced a significant reduction in sinus pain.
With this knowledge, people all over the world are experimenting with ways to sprinkle it on their food and drinks.
11. Cinnamon Treats Coughs and Colds
Many studies have shown that cinnamon benefits may help with colds and coughs because of its warming properties.
Although cinnamon is used for a number of medical purposes, the spice is most commonly used for its ability to help with coughs and colds. Cinnamon is a natural expectorant that helps clear up your chest congestion and prevent further lung problems.
On cold days, people will often add it to their hot drinks or use it as part of a homemade remedy. One thing to keep in mind when using cinnamon for these purposes is that it should not be taken within two hours before bedtime because it may cause some insomnia problems.
How to Use Cinnamon Powder?
Cinnamon powder has been used for centuries as a spice and medicinal herb. It’s not just because cinnamon smells great, but also because there are so many beneficial properties to the spice which is found in most kitchens.
Many people are unaware of the cinnamon benefits in cooking, it is a wonderful spice that can add flavor to food and also be used in beauty products.
The cinnamon powder can be mixed with water, milk or juice. It is also used in many baking and cooking recipes, it has been used as an essential ingredient in both eastern and western cooking traditions.
Cinnamon in Water Benefits
Cinnamon in water can relieve constipation and aids digestion. It also provides the body with dietary fiber and helps the liver to break down toxins. Cinnamon in water is great for digestion and can help you lose weight and relieve acid reflux.
Cinnamon Powder Nutritional Value Per 100g
In 100g (3.5 oz) of cinnamon powder, the following nutrients are found:
- Energy: 247 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 80 g
- Fiber: 53 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Potassium: 431 mg
- Phosphorus: 64 mg
- Magnesium: 60 mg
- Water: 10.6 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Iron: 8.3 mg
- Vitamin C: 3.8 mg
- Vitamin E: 2.3 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.15 mg
- Vitamin B9: 0.16 mg
- Vitamin K: 31 μg
- Vitamin A: 15 μg
We will discuss more about the uses of Cinnamon powder.
Cinnamon Benefits for Skin and Hair
A study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center showed that cinnamon provides antioxidant properties. The antioxidants found in cinnamon are also effective at reducing melanin production, the pigment responsible for the skin’s color.
What does Cinnamon do for your skin and hair?
Cinnamon benefits can help minimize the signs of aging and keep skin healthy and strong. Cinnamon has been shown to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that help prevent or eradicate bacterial infections. It is often used to treat acne because it clears up the skin and removes blemish-causing bacteria.
Cinnamon can also be used as an antiseptic agent, which makes it useful against wounds, sores, burns, toothaches, and warts.
Cinnamon also been recognized as a promising agent in an anti-aging skincare regimen.
Cinnamon for Hair
Does Cinnamon damage hair?
No, research in the last few decades has shown it can treat dandruff also increase hair growth, stop hair breakage, and strengthen the hair. Cinnamon is also great for your hair as it fades brown spots.
Cinnamon benefits includes helping with keratin production and keeps your hair healthy and shiny. Cinnamon leaves your hair smelling really nice and feeling soft.
Is Cinnamon good for hair loss?
Yes, Cinnamon benefits proven to reduce hair loss. One of the most popular remedies for hair loss is cinnamon. It is believed that this spice contains properties that stimulate the scalp and dilate blood vessels leading to hair growth.
A 2016 study found that participants who took over 1,000mg of cinnamon per day showed significant improvements in hair loss compared to those who only took 50mg per day.
Cinnamon and Honey
Honey is a natural skin care product with many different benefits, and cinnamon has even more. It contains antioxidants, minerals, honey has powerful bacteria-fighting properties.
Honey is an antibacterial agent which helps to kill off the bad bacteria that causes acne and infections, therefore, when honey is mixed with Cinnamon it gives you a natural product that will take a good care of your skin!
Add a teaspoon of honey into my cinnamon in the morning, it helps with skin clarity, speeding up healing time, and prevents breakouts from trying new products. Cinnamon honey is found in many beauty products due to its amazing benefits for the skin.
Cinnamon Honey is a delicious way to promote health. Its benefits are the wonderful flavors it adds to foods. It has been said that the antioxidants in cinnamon may also be a treatment option for skin cancer when cinnamon is mixed with pure honey.
Cinnamon and Milk
Milk is a great addition to your diet because it has calcium and protein, along with other nutrients. Milk also has antioxidants and minerals such as iodine, zinc, and copper. It’s also a fantastic source of vitamin D. A milk allergy is rare in children but more common in adults.
Cinnamon benefits has been shown to help with respiratory infections, and food allergies. Cinnamon milk has been shown to be a great remedy for treating many skin conditions. It may help with eczema, and psoriasis.
One of the most common uses for cinnamon is in the preparation of milk. To prepare this ancient remedy, simply mix water and cinnamon in a jar or bowl, cover it up, and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Then pour before serving into a cup or mug.
This milk is made by creating a mixture of raw milk with pure ground cinnamon. The milk is then left to sit overnight; this process allows the cinnamon to permeate into the liquid and makes for a more delicious drink that will benefit your overall health.
Cinnamon Face Mask
Here’s a cool cinnamon face mask recipe which you can apply in 3 simple steps:
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder + 1 teaspoon of honey + 1/2 cup of warm water in a bowl
- Apply the mask on your face and let it soak for 5-10 minutes
- Wash it off with warm water
Just make sure you don’t leave any on for too long, because cinnamon is drying and can cause skin irritation if left on for more than 15-20 minutes at a time.You will notice the difference in one use!
Pro Tip for Men: The cinnamon can also be used on your face as an aftershave to exfoliate the pores, or as an alternative to blackheads.
Cinnamon Essential Oils
Can you put Cinnamon essential oil on your skin?
Yes you can! Cinnamon essential oil is one of the most popular essential oils, especially for hair and skin. Cinnamon essential oil is made from the bark of the cinnamomum tree. The oil can be extracted by either steam distillation or cold-pressing.
When applied directly to the skin, the cinnamon bark oil provides a warming sensation that leaves skin feeling soft, supple, and rejuvenated. Because it is an antioxidant-rich oil, cinnamon essential oil is excellent for dry scalp and hair because it doesn’t weigh down hair.
When using cinnamon essential oil for hair and skin, it’s important to know the right dilution ratio for your desired use. Cinnamon essential oils can be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oils and then applied liberally to the skin and scalp.
Cinnamon essential oil is not for everyone. It can cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to cinnamon, so you should only use the oil if you’ve previously had no reaction to it. You should also avoid applying the oil near your eyes or mucus membranes.
Cinnamon Essential Oil for Hair
Is Cinnamon oil good for your hair?
Yes, Cinnamon oil is known to stimulate blood circulation, which is good for your hair. Cinnamon oil also contains anti-oxidants that protect hair from damage caused by free radicals.
Cinnamon oil and cinnamon extracts are used in several hair products. Brushing with cinnamon oil or an extract can help add a pleasant aroma to the hair.
As part of a homemade shampoo, it may be useful to add some essential oils, but other ingredients may create unwanted results. Check the label carefully before using any cinnamon contents as ingredients in your homemade shampoo or conditioner.
Cinnamon and Rosemary Oil
Cinnamon and rosemary oil are great for hair growth. It only takes a few drops of each. Mix the oils in a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, and apply it to the scalp.
Another option is to create your own hair serum by mixing one part cinnamon essential oil with four parts rosemary essential oil. After applying it to the scalp, wait 5-10 minutes and rinse with warm water to remove any excess oils from your hair.
Cinnamon Side Effects
Cinnamon has been used for years in Chinese medicine due to its many medicinal properties. It is actually quite safe but there are some things you should be aware of.
What about cinnamon side effects? Despite of the super health benefits of Cinnamon for skin and hair, it might cause some side effects to some people.
Here are few cinnamon side effects reported and general guidelines to consider:
- Cinnamon shouldn’t be used on sensitive skin or hair
- If Cinnamon is consumed in high amounts (it is highly concentrated in some processed foods), it could lead to the formation of kidney stones
- Cinnamon is generally safe for diabetes patients. However, it may cause the blood sugar to spike immediately if consumed in high amounts
- Cinnamon can lead to adverse reactions like puffy eyes or headaches for some people
- Patients with liver diseases should refrain from consuming Cinnamon
Cinnamon side effects tend to be minimal. However, some individuals are allergic to cinnamon, so if you find yourself in this group, speak with your doctor before trying it.
Takeaway
Cinnamon benefits for skin and hair are many. Adding cinnamon to your diet can help your skin look healthy. If you have skin problems, like acne, cinnamon can also help cleanse the pores. The benefits of adding cinnamon to your diet for hair include improving dry, brittle hair and promoting growth.
Cinnamon benefits extends to its oil too, you can benefit apply Cinnamon essential oil on your skin and scalp for great results. Cinnamon powder and oil has been found to have anti inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
It is a potent antioxidant and can cure acne and skin infections. It also helps dry hair by moisturizing the scalp while leaving the hair smooth and silky. The oil of this spice can also provide keratin proteins that are needed to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.
Despite of the Cinnamon benefits, but like any other herb please keep in mind that you always need to moderately consume herbs and to seek your doctor’s advice in order to avoid any negative effects on your health, especially if you have a chronic disease or a history of any health issue.
Watch & share the following quick video about cinnamon benefits for skin and hair:
If you enjoyed reading reading this story, you may want to checkout The Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar.
References On Cinnamon Health Benefits and Side Effects
About The Author
M.D Mark D. is a Health and Wellness professional writer. Mark has authored many health articles around the following topics: Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Fitness, Nutrition, Pets Health, Mental Health, Medicine, and Supplements.
Thanks, I have noticed a difference in my hair texture and it is growing faster. My daughter has been using Cinnamon on her eczema patches and it has helped significantly!
Cinnamon all the way 🙂
Good luck to you and to your daughter, Julian!