What is Cinnamon Tea Good for?—Health Benefits & Considerations

One of the most favorite spices, made from the bark of a tree, ‘Cinnamon’ is a pleasing ingredient in several dishes. It is popular for its aroma, and slightly spicy flavor, which even helps you reduce several respiratory problems and others.

Cinnamon powder and sticks, both, are used in many cuisines. This can be from cookies to a great meal with a perfect blend of spices. Whatever you do with it, its sweet aroma and spicy flavor give everything a herbal touch. 

Such a cherished herbal beverage is cinnamon tea. Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon is steeped in boiled water to make it. Enjoy it on its own or add more ingredients as per your preference. There are several ways in which it brings versatility to food and health. If you are asking, what cinnamon tea is good for? Here is the answer. 

Antioxidant Properties of Cinnamon Tea

Cinnamon is a powerhouse of antioxidants. The antioxidants present in cinnamon tea contribute to several health benefits. It protects your cells from damage and reduces the signs of aging and other symptoms. It is essential for preventing diseases and maintaining the overall body functioning. 

Certain antioxidants in cinnamon tea have anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing inflammation and promote healing. It can also reduce the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Furthermore, it prevents certain types of cancers and also supports immune health by protecting cells.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Cinnamaldehyde, a component that helps give cinnamon its distinct flavor and smell, has anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces inflammation, which in turn lowers the risk of several incurable diseases.

It is said that polyphenols present in cinnamon also act as an anti-inflammatory component. By reducing the risk of chronic diseases, these components help the body heal faster from several pains and swelling. 

Consuming cinnamon tea can reduce pain in joints, promote digestive health, and proper blood circulation, and also contribute to the overall wellness of a person by its herbal properties. 

Impact on Blood Sugar

Cinnamon helps in managing blood sugar levels with the help of components like cinnamaldehyde, resulting in improved insulin sensitivity. This may not be the same for everyone. Some people may experience visible changes in their sugar levels during fasting and after meals. But others may not experience it. 

Though it maintains blood sugar levels, the amount of cinnamon consumption and the variety of cinnamon may affect negatively some people. It is not recommended to excessively consume cinnamon or rely solely on it if you are dealing with blood sugar variations. 

Impact on Heart Health

Better heart health is a benefit offered by cinnamon tea, which is gained by reducing blood pressure, managing cholesterol levels by increasing HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol, reducing total blood cholesterol, and managing the health of blood vessels, etc. 

Inflammation can be associated with several cardiovascular issues, resulting in poor heart health. The risk of these issues can be reduced by the consumption of cinnamon tea. A steady blood sugar level can also help maintain cardiovascular health. 

Cinnamon tea alone cannot give you any benefits on heart health. A moderate consumption of cinnamon tea with several other nutrient-rich foods can help you reach your health goals. It is essential to understand your body type and the current levels of blood sugar, pressure, and cholesterol to decide if cinnamon tea can work on your body. 

Digestive Benefits of Cinnamon Tea

Along with the respiratory and heart health benefits offered by cinnamon tea, it contributes a major role in maintaining digestive health. 

• Helps in smoother digestion 
• Reduces any discomfort caused by bloating and gas.
• It gives a refreshing feel to calm your headache, nausea, and stomach cramps due to diarrhea or even periods. 
• Promotes better gut health by balancing the gut microbiome.
• Promotes digestive enzyme production, which helps in overall digestive health.

How Does It Help in Weight Management?

Well, this is a bit confusing. Cinnamon tea alone cannot help you lose weight. But if you have it with a balanced diet, you may hit your weight loss goals. Let’s see in what ways cinnamon tea is going to help you in weight management.

• May help increase metabolic activities, leading to weight loss by burning caloric content in the body.
• The distinct, tempting flavor of cinnamon tea can help you lower frequent snacking or sugar cravings. 
• Improving insulin regulation can help reduce fat storage.
• Controlled food intake and healthy digestion can always help you manage your weight. 

Averts Bacterial and Fungal Activities

Cinnamon contains several components that can prevent bacteria and fungal activities. That is why you are getting a soothing or refreshing effect while consuming it to reduce cold and cough. Cinnamon can break the cell membrane of bacteria and reduce the cell division. 

Cinnamon powder is a good remedy for fungal infections on the skin. But it may not be suitable for everyone. You must consult a healthcare specialist to understand the depth of the infection caused. 

These herbal properties are actively used in several Ayurvedic medicines, Chinese treatments, and other traditions.

Impact on Brain Health

• Studies suggest that cinnamon tea offers cognitive benefits such as improving memory power and also [protects brain cells from damage. 
• It helps to regain memory power and supports the learning process.
• Regulates blood flow to the brain 
• The antioxidants in cinnamon tea help in regulating the oxidative stress.

Risks and Considerations

Despite the benefits offered by cinnamon tea, you must consider certain downsides of it to understand what may be the appropriate style and quantity of drinking.

• It helps in reducing blood sugar levels, but overconsumption can lead to an extreme lower sugar level. 
• Some people may exhibit allergic reactions to the use of certain spices. Cinnamon sticks can also cause allergic reactions like swelling and itching.  
• Ask your healthcare specialist if it is safe to add cinnamon tea to the diet while you are taking medicines, especially if you are pregnant or a breastfeeding mother.
• An overconsumption may cause digestive issues and liver health issues. 

The Bottom Line

Do not let cinnamon tea negatively impact your diet and health preferences. It is a herbal beverage, which you can consume while you are feeling ill or want a refreshing feel. All the benefits mentioned in this article may vary depending on individuals. You may consume it every day also but do not forget to change your diet according to the amount of intake. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)