How to Use Cinnamon in a Variety of Ways

Cinnamon sticks can be used in many different ways.

Stick cinnamon is very inexpensive and can be found in most supermarket international sections. Cinnamon is most commonly used as a spice to flavor foods. It is used in chocolate, desserts, apple pies, cinnamon buns, and Indian curries. The spice can be sweet as well as "hot" and spicy in hard cinnamon candy. "True cinnamon" comes from Sri Lanka, but all varieties can be used for different purposes.

Things You'll Need

• cinnamon

Instructions

1. Place a dash of cinnamon in a pot of brewing coffee. It will remove the bitterness of the coffee.

2. Break up a cinnamon stick. Place the pieces in a pan and bring them to a boil. The cinnamon scent will serve as an air freshener. When the liquid from the boiled stick cools down, use it as a mouth freshener. Cinnamon is a natural antiseptic.

3. Brew tea with a stick of cinnamon. Cinnamon has compounds that naturally neutralize gas and aid in food digestion.

4. Place a stick of cinnamon in a vacuum cleaner's bag. The cinnamon can reduce the musty smells that can come from a vacuum bag.

5. Toss a stick of cinnamon in with your cornmeal and flour containers. Cinnamon has a compound that can act as a natural insect repellent.

6. Cinnamon in powder form is often used in cold remedies. The spice is a powerful antioxidant, and has been used in medicines for centuries. It's also used as a sweetener in diabetic recipes.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if there is no proof of some of the claims about cinnamons health benefits; it is still a very useful spice.

• Cinnamon should be used in moderation. Overuse of it can lead to tender gums and mouth ulcers. It may cause sleepiness, depression and convulsions if used in large quantities.

References

• Antioxidants for Health and Longevity: Uses for Cinnamon