Cinnamon Bark Materia medica y magica

Botanical Name

  • Cinnamomum verum (True Cinnamon) or Cinnamomum cassia (Cassia Cinnamon)

Common Names

  • Cinnamon
  • True Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
  • Cassia (Cinnamomum cassia)
  • Chinese Cinnamon (Cassia)
  • Cinnamom

Flavor

  • Pungent, sweet

Herbal Energetics

  • Warming, moistening

Herbal Actions

  • Antimicrobial: Exhibits strong antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacterial, fungal, and viral infections.
  • Antioxidant: Rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from oxidative damage and support overall health.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and sore muscles.
  • Digestive Stimulant: Stimulates digestion, alleviates digestive discomfort, and helps reduce nausea and bloating.
  • Circulatory Stimulant: Enhances blood circulation, which can help warm the body and improve overall circulation.
  • Blood Sugar Regulator: May help regulate blood sugar levels, making it useful for managing blood sugar imbalances.

Organ Affinities

  • Digestive System: Supports digestion, reduces nausea, and helps alleviate bloating and gas.
  • Circulatory System: Promotes healthy circulation and warms the body.
  • Respiratory System: Can help with respiratory issues by easing coughs and colds due to its warming and antimicrobial properties.
  • Endocrine System: Supports balanced blood sugar levels and overall endocrine health.

Uses

  • Culinary: Commonly used in cooking and baking to add flavor to sweet and savory dishes.
  • Medicinal: Used in teas, tinctures, and capsules to support digestive health, boost immunity, and manage blood sugar levels.
  • Aromatherapy: Used in essential oil form for its warming and uplifting properties.
  • Topical: Can be used in topical applications to warm sore muscles and improve circulation.

Preparation and Dosage

  • Decoction: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon bark per 1 cup of hot water and bring to a boil. Simmer and allow to steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink 1-2 times daily to support digestion and overall health.
  • Tincture: Take 1-2 ml of a 1:5 tincture in 25% alcohol, 2-3 times daily for antimicrobial and digestive support.
  • Capsules: Standard dosage is 500-1000 mg of powdered cinnamon bark, taken 1-2 times daily.

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy: Use with caution during pregnancy, especially in large amounts, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
  • Allergies: Avoid use if allergic to cinnamon or related plants.
  • Blood Sugar Levels: Monitor blood sugar levels if you are diabetic or on blood sugar-lowering medications, as cinnamon can affect glucose levels.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: May cause irritation in the digestive tract if used in excess; use with caution if you have ulcers or sensitive stomach.

Materia magica

  • Protection: Used in spells and rituals for protection, particularly against negative influences and energies.
  • Abundance and Prosperity: Associated with attracting wealth and prosperity; used in money-drawing spells and rituals.
  • Love and Passion: Promotes warmth, attraction, and love; used in love spells and to enhance romantic relationships.
  • Cleansing: Employed in rituals for cleansing spaces and objects, as well as removing negative energies.
  • Planet: Sun - Linked to the Sun, representing warmth, vitality, and energy. This correspondence enhances cinnamon’s ability to promote circulation, warmth, and overall health.
  • Element: Fire - Connected to the Fire element, symbolizing warmth, transformation, and activity.
  • Zodiac Sign: Leo - Aligns with Leo, emphasizing themes of vitality, creativity, and leadership.
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