Israeli Scientist Uses Cinnamon to Save Lives

IsraelNN.com) Cinnamon may spice up more than cuisine, perfume, air fresheners and pharmaceutical products, according to a study by Tel Aviv University Professor Michael Ovadia.

The Israeli scientist began his research into the medicinal properties of cinnamon after pondering the weekly Torah reading he heard at synagogue seven years ago.

"There is a passage that explains how the High Priests, the [Kohanim] would prepare a holy oil used to be on their bodies before they made a ritual animal sacrifice," recalled Ovadia in an interview published by Israel21c. "I had a hunch that this oil, which was prepared with cinnamon and other spices, played a role in preventing the spread of infectious agents to people."

Research by the university's Department of Zoology found the fragrant spice, used in everything from cooking to aromatherapy and perfume, could neutralize viruses and immunize against certain infections.

Avian Flu H9, Sendai virus, HIV and Herpes Simplex 1, and Newcastle disease virus were all found to respond in Ovadia's experiments. It is important to note, however, that the cinnamon extract used in the studies was from a particular variety of cinnamon using coumarin and cinnamon aldehyde, which are byproducts of the actual spice.

Most important: be aware that these substances can also be highly toxic and damage the liver if ingested in large quantities. "You cannot take high doses from the natural form of cinnamon," warns Ovadia. "If you used it several times a day to protect you from the flu, it would be toxic."

The essential oil produced from cinnamon bark has long been used by aromatherapists in a variety of ways, including as a stimulant and antiseptic.

In one of the best known books in the field of aromatherapy, famed French aroma therapist Jean Valnet, MD lists cinnamon as an effective element in remedies to combat the flu, as well as intestinal parasites, problems in the digestive system and other physical issues. Valnet's mentor, Robert Tisserand, warns that cinnamon oil is so powerful that it should not be used on the skin at all.

But it is not surprising that a Jewish scientist in the Land of Israel would be the one to discover a way to fight life-threatening disease with cinnamon, given its history as one of the most powerful spices used in the most ancient Jewish rituals.

This month a patent-pending research and license deal on the extract was signed between Tel Aviv University's technology transfer company, Ramot, and Frutarom, an Israeli-based multi-national "nutraceutical" company. Frutarom expects to use the cinnamon extract in myriad applications, including an air spray to prevent the spread of Avian flu in airports and a daily supplement to be marketed as an anti-flu preparation.
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/124223

Cinnamon Spice Offers Health Benefits

Ricky Hussey
October 7, 2007


Cinnamon is widely used both in the food and pharmaceutical industry because of its antiseptic properties. The cinnamon bark oil is used as a flavoring for digestive aids, liniments, and oral care products. It is also used in many perfumes, soaps, and lotions. In addition, cinnamon leaf oil is used in the food industry as flavorings to candies, sauces, and pastries. The commonly used ingredient is actually the soft, inner bark of the cinnamon tree.

This spice is now being heralded as the latest in the long line of herbal medicine wonders? According to research findings, one teaspoon of cinnamon contains 28 milligrams of calcium, one milligram of iron, fiber, and vitamins C, K, and manganese.

The use of cinnamon dates back in Chinese medicine to 2800 BC, and is known as “kwai” in the Chinese language. Ancient Egyptians used it in the embalming process of corpses because of its fragrance. Medieval physicians used this spice to treat coughs, hoarseness, sore throats, and other types of infections. Cinnamon also has antibacterial and inflammatory properties that help reduce joint and muscle pain, especially the discomforts associated with arthritis.

Many health specialists advice diabetics to take daily dose of cinnamon to regulate blood sugar levels. It can also benefit one's health by improving the body's digestive system and relieve many stomach discomforts.




In aromatherapy, cinnamon oil is used to stimulate and warm the senses, restore vigor, and treat stress and anxiety. Cinnamon oil is also important in strengthening the immune system because its scent is said to treat early stages of cold and fever. The oil of cinnamon is also used as a physical and emotional stimulant, with many believing that it can actually enhance one's libido.

Medical research also indicates that the scent of cinnamon may reduce drowsiness, irritability, pain, and frequent migraines. In some studies, the essential oil provides relief to tight muscles, ease painful joints, and relieve menstrual cramps in women. Cinnamon also increases the action of enzymes that break down the food in the body and help improve one's metabolism.

Traditional uses of cinnamon

Many traditional cultures around the globe have been using cinnamon not just as an ingredient in their favorite dishes but as a medicine as well. In fact, cinnamon has been highly valued for its medicinal properties for hundreds, perhaps even thousands of years.

Here are the other health benefits of Cinnamon:


· Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon included in a daily diet can lower cholesterol.

· Cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with diabetes.

· Cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.

· A study released by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

· It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

.Relief from congestion - Cinnamon and other spices have long been consumed to relieve congestion that comes from colds, allergies, and other common conditions.

.Muscle and joint pain relief- Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain, as well as stiffness, is reduced or even eliminated.

· When added to food, it prevents bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

· Smelling cinnamon may boost cognitive function and memory.

· Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

Indeed, cinnamon has many benefits that can be used to improve one's health and well-being. If taken together with a balanced, healthy diet and plenty of exercise --- one can bring back the spice of life that everyone longs for.

http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=39583