Who does not know cinnamon and its various uses in the gastronomy of the whole world? Originally from Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), there is evidence to suggest that this wonderful spice was already popular for several centuries BC. It was considered valuable by the Chinese, Indians, Phoenicians, Egyptians and Greeks, both for its gastronomic properties and for its preservative and therapeutic qualities. Cinnamon was one of the promoter spices of the Columbian trips that changed the history of the world.
Traditionally, cinnamon was used to treat ailments typical of women, for its supposed beneficial effects on menstrual irregularities. In a HOWTO we investigated about the cinnamon tea for menstruation, its benefits and how to use it. Find out with us if it really works!
Cinnamon tea for menstruation: does it work?
In independent investigations, one from 2015 and one from 2018, two groups of scientists studied the effects of cinnamon on conditions related to menstruation, such as severe cramps, excessive bleeding, irregularity and the presence of other symptoms such as vomiting and dizziness.
The conclusions about the benefits of cinnamon tea were more than interesting. They specifically demonstrated that cinnamon is a strong ally for women with menstrual problems. Cinnamon tea can help reduce bleeding, relieve painful cramps quickly and effectively, as well as decrease the intensity of PMS-related symptoms. All in a safe way, without adverse side effects or high levels of toxicity if used in moderate amounts.
What’s more, the cinnamon tea is used to advance menstruation fast, as it stimulates uterine contractions as long as it is taken one or two days before the possible appearance of the rule. Cinnamon tea also works for delays if they are less than a month.
The action of cinnamon on menstruation may be due to its action as a vasodilator, as it increases blood flow in the uterus and helps promote regular bleeding. On the other hand, cinnamon tea is also antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory, so it not only contributes to regular menstruation, but also reduces pain.
In addition to its period properties, cinnamon tea also has slimming qualities. Find out more about it by visiting our article How to lose weight with cinnamon tea.
How to make cinnamon tea
Making cinnamon tea It’s pretty simple, plus it’s delicious and easy to incorporate into your daily routine. It can be taken both hot and cold, although it is advisable to drink it hot during the first day of menstruation to help relax the muscles and avoid painful contractions.
The preparation is done in two ways, it all depends on the type of presentation of the cinnamon that is possessed. In the case of whole cinnamon or “sticks”, you should boil the cinnamon stick in a cup of water or 235 ml of water, approximately. The preparation time is about 10 or 15 minutes.
If, on the other hand, the spice is already ground, the cup of water is boiled and then add about a teaspoon or 2.6 grams of ground cinnamon. While the water cools, let the cinnamon stand. Although you can do it if you wish, it is not necessary to strain the infusion.
It is important to note that specialists in traditional or alternative medicine prefer Ceylon cinnamon over cassia cinnamon, just as they prefer to use it whole. If you only have a bottle of brand-name cinnamon on hand and you are not sure which variety it belongs to, you can still use it, but keep in mind that the properties may not be the same.
Cinnamon infusion: contraindications
Although cinnamon is generally quite safe, there are conditions that can be aggravated by regular consumption of this spice. Take into account some of the contraindications of cinnamon tea:
- If you suffer from gastric reflux or stomach ulcers: People with this condition should avoid this spice, since it tends to irritate and damage the mucosa of the digestive tract. For this same reason, very high doses should be avoided or taken for a long time.
- If food or drugs are consumed that affect the gastric walls: it is preferable not to consume it together with medicines or foods that affect the gastric walls, especially if they are sweets with sugar and mint such as candies and gum. Together they may cause inflammation and ulcers in the oral cavity, including the throat.
- If you suffer from platelet or clotting problems– Another condition that can prevent you from enjoying cinnamon tea is having a low platelet count or clotting problems. If you are taking anticoagulants, keep in mind that cinnamon can enhance its effects, as it is, in itself, a mild anticoagulant. People with liver or kidney problems should also avoid tea.
To regulate menstruation, the general recommendation is drink cinnamon tea once a day the week before the menstrual period begins and the first day of the menstrual cycle. Then, it is advisable to suspend consumption.
Cinnamon in pregnancy
Pregnancy and lactation is a contraindicated time for the consumption of the infusion. This is because it can alter the hormonal balance characteristic of these two periods. In any case, it can be consumed from time to time as an ingredient in any sweet or savory dish. It is not necessary to avoid it completely and you can continue to take advantage of its benefits.
This article is merely informative, at oneHOWTO we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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