Cinnamon Bark

I have read so much about cinnamon lately!  On the Mayo Clinic website I read about recent studies that were done on blood sugar levels and the effect that cinnamon had on reducing them.  One study published in 2009 found that a 500 mg capsule of cinnamon taken twice a day for 90 days improved hemoglobin A1C levels — a reflection of average blood sugar level for the past two to three months.  They say more research is needed to determine how cinnamon supplementation leads to this type of benefit. One theory is that cinnamon increases insulin action.

cinnamonvogue.com is a website with a boatload of information about cinnamon.  There I found that, there are basically four types of cinnamon used commercially, and two main varieties that are the most widely used; Cassia and Ceylon.  here's a visual I found on their website showing the difference between the two:



It seems that the Ceylon variety is the one that is best used for decreasing blood sugar.  The Cassia variety should not be confused as it has very high coumarin, a substance that could cause liver damage, or even complete failure if taken in large quantities.


doTerra has a blog.  They have a spotlight on a specific oil every so-often.  June 30th they posted a "Spotlight" on cinnamon bark. They use Ceylon Cinnamon (although they do sell Cassia, but it is labeled as Cassia, not cinnamon).   To save you from having to leave this page and go to their blog (http://doterrablog.com/), this is the post:

EO Spotlight: Cinnamon Bark

Posted on June 30, 2014

Cinnamon is derived from a tropical, evergreen tree that grows up to 45 feet high and has highly fragrant bark, leaves, and flowers. Extracted from bark, cinnamon oil contains strong cleansing and immune enhancing properties. Due to its high content of cinnamaldehyde, Cinnamon should be diluted with dōTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil when applied to the skin and only one to two drops are needed for internal benefits. Cinnamon is very purifying to the circulatory system and it helps promote circulation, both internally and when applied to the skin, helping to ease sore muscles and joints. Cinnamon helps maintain a healthy immune system, especially when seasonal threats are high. When diffused, Cinnamon promotes clear breathing while purifying the air. Cinnamon is frequently used in mouth rinses and gums for its oral health benefits. Cinnamon has a long history of culinary uses, adding spice to desserts, entrees, and hot drinks.

Primary Benefits:

Promotes circulation both internally and when applied to skin

Helps maintains a healthy immune system

Promotes oral health

Helps alleviate sore muscles and joints

Long used to flavor food and for its internal health benefits

Uses:

Put 2 drops in empty veggie capsule for immune support.

Place 1 drop of Cinnamon essential oil in hot water or tea and drink slowly to soothe your throat.

Put 2-3 drops in a spray bottle for quick and effective cleansing spray.

Place one drop on your toothbrush then add toothpaste.

Dilute with dōTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil then apply to cold, achy joints during winter time.

- See more at: http://doterrablog.com/eo-spotlight-cinnamon-bark-2/#sthash.umYwFDQd.dpuf


I'm surprised that doTerra's information does not even mention the blood sugar lowering benefit that has been studied.