Cinnamon helps in fighting against infections

Cinnamon is a spice used by many different cultures as a seasoning for savory and sweet foods. There are different varieties of cinnamon. A new study suggests that cinnamon might offer a helping hand in fighting against infection.

Antibiotics are life-saving drugs which when used properly can fight bacterial infections and save lives by killing bacteria. Streptococcus, E.coli and Staphylococcus are some common infection causing bacteria.

Since their first use, antibiotics have saved countless lives. Now, however, the tide is turning.
Over countless generations, a growing number of bacterial species have built up resistance to antibiotics.
This means that infections that were once easy to treat are now impervious to antibiotics. It is a growing global problem.

World Health Organization said "this is one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development today." Given the severity of this crisis, researchers are looking for alternative ways to effectively fight infections and prevent the spread of disease.

 cinnamon are combined often to fight various infections. Daily use of  cinnamon can prevent bacterial and viral infections and it help strengthen white blood cells. cinnamon mixed with honey can be drunk with water to heal colds and coughs and heal bladder infections. Honey and cinnamon paste can ease an aching tooth, cure acne, eczema, insect bites, ringworm and other skin infections.

Some people could develop an allergy to cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon has a component coumarin which has anti-coagulant properties. Hence, anyone taking blood thinners like warfarin must be careful when consuming cinnamon for it could cause excess bleeding. Do not use cinnamon as the sole treatment for serious illnesses.

Cinnamon could interact adversely with the antibiotic tetracycline and interfere with its dissolution rates. Excess consumption of cinnamon powder or even small quantities of cinnamon oil could cause indigestion, increased heart rate, increased perspiration and breathing. Contact dermatitis, aggravation of rosacea symptoms, mouth sores, and inflammation of the tongue can be caused due to exposure to cinnamon oil or eating cinnamon flavored mints, candies or chewing gum.

Always consult a doctor if you need to take antibiotics and are using cinnamon for medicinal purposes.

The recommended dosage of cinnamon is 1-6g a day taken for not more than 6 weeks.