Cinnamon is a versatile spice that adds flavor to food and offers practical uses around the home. Knowing various cinnamon uses unlocks simple solutions that save money, are convenient, and reduce waste. From enhancing recipes to creating natural cleaning products, cinnamon helps minimize reliance on chemical-laden products. Discover how this common kitchen ingredient can simplify your routines and improve your lifestyle.
CINNAMON USES: LEARN FROM WWII AND SAVE MONEY WHILE REDUCING WASTE
Since starting this World War II series, I’ve come to appreciate how resourceful people were back then. But it raises the question: why don’t we use those methods today? The only answer I can think of is that we’re too busy. It’s easier (and more expensive) to buy cleaning solutions or headache medicine than to make our own.
One thing I’ve learned from this series is that our grandmothers were geniuses. I’ve tried out several methods, like earwax removal, and they work surprisingly well, often better than store-bought products. It makes me feel silly to spend so much money on commercial items when I have simple solutions right in my cupboard.
Knowing many different cinnamon uses can help you make the most out of a single product, save money, and reduce waste. Plus, it helps you avoid chemical-laden products. During WWII, people used cinnamon as a natural preservative, showing how versatile it is. My favorite cinnamon use is helping with diabetes—it significantly lowered my husband’s A1C levels, which was amazing. Cinnamon is convenient and eco-friendly. Discover more about how this fantastic spice can make your life easier.
Cinnamon Uses to Enhance Your Beauty
Cinnamon can improve your beauty. This natural spice helps your skin and hair look better. It’s safe, easy to find, and saves money. Try cinnamon for a simple way to enhance your beauty.
- Acne and Blemishes – To treat acne, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 3 tablespoons of honey. Apply this blend to your skin before going to bed. Wash it off with warm water in the morning. It’s a simple and natural way to fight blemishes.
- Blackheads – To get rid of blackheads, mix equal parts oatmeal and ground cinnamon. Add a bit of water to make a thick paste. Gently scrub your face with the mixture, then rinse it off with cold water. This simple scrub helps clear out pores.
- Face Masks – To make a face mask, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt. Spread it on your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. This mask can help your skin look fresh and bright. I love using this simple, homemade mask for a quick glow-up.
- Exfoliating Scrubs – To make an exfoliating scrub, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Gently rub the mixture on your skin in circular motions, then rinse off with warm water. This scrub helps remove dead skin cells and leaves your skin feeling soft.
- Anti-Aging Creams – To make an anti-aging cream, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply this mixture to your face and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. This cream can help reduce fine lines and keep your skin looking young.
- Lip Plumpers – To make a lip plumper, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Gently rub it on your lips and leave it for a few minutes. Then, wipe it off. This can make your lips look fuller and smoother. Also, you can try wetting a cinnamon stick with warm water, then rubbing it over your lips. Your lips will tingle and begin to plump.
- Hair Masks – To create a hair mask, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply it to your hair and scalp, then leave it on for about 30 minutes. Rinse it out with warm water and shampoo. This mask can make your hair shiny and strong.
- Scalp Treatments – To make a scalp treatment, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of honey. Massage this mixture into your scalp and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Then, rinse it out with warm water and shampoo. This treatment can help nourish your scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
- Lighten Hair – To lighten your hair, mix equal parts ground cinnamon and conditioner. Apply the mixture evenly to your wet, untangled hair, making sure every strand is covered. Leave it on your hair overnight. In the morning, wash your hair thoroughly. This natural method can give your hair a lighter, sun-kissed look. I enjoy using this simple trick to add a bit of brightness to my hair without using harsh chemicals.
- Foot Soaks – To make a soothing foot soak, mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with warm water in a large bowl. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Soak your feet for about 20 minutes, then dry them off. This soak helps relax tired feet and leaves them feeling soft.
- Bath Soaks – To make a calming bath soak, mix 1 cup of Epsom salt with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Add the mixture to a warm bath and stir it in. Soak in the tub for about 20 minutes to relax your muscles and ease tension. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for extra relaxation.
- Freshen Breath – To freshen your breath, you can chew on a piece of cinnamon bark. Another option is to gargle with cinnamon water. Just mix a bit of ground cinnamon in warm water and swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds. This helps keep your breath smelling nice and clean.
belly fat
Cinnamon for Health: Spicing Up Your Well-Being
Cinnamon has many uses in healthcare. It is a popular choice because it can be easily added to your daily routine. People believe it can help with overall health and wellness. Cinnamon uses are an easy way to support a healthy lifestyle. It’s a simple addition that many find beneficial.
- Relieve Arthritis Pain – To help reduce the pain from arthritis, try drinking a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below). It’s easy to make and can be quite soothing. I find that this warm drink not only tastes good but also brings some comfort to my aching joints. It’s a simple way to feel a bit better.
- Prevent Bladder Infections – To help prevent bladder infections, try drinking a glass of cinnamon tea every day (recipe below). It’s an easy habit to start and can be quite refreshing. I enjoy this daily ritual because it feels like a small step towards staying healthy. Plus, the tea tastes great and is a comforting drink.
- Improve Circulation – To boost your circulation, try drinking a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below). It’s a simple addition to your daily routine that can make a big difference. I love how the warmth of the tea feels as it spreads through my body. It’s a comforting way to promote better blood flow and feel more energized.
- Relieve Cold and Flu Symptoms – To help ease the symptoms of a cold or flu, drink a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below) with a little ginger. This warm drink can be very soothing when you’re feeling under the weather. I find that the spice from the ginger and the warmth of the tea make me feel more comfortable.
- Prevent Indigestion – To help avoid indigestion, try adding a little cinnamon to the dish you are serving. You can also drink a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below) half an hour before eating.
- Treat Insect Bites – To help with insect bites, make a mixture using equal parts ground cinnamon and honey. Then, apply it to the bite. I find this combination really soothing. The honey makes it stick well, and the cinnamon feels calming on my skin.
- Ease Menstrual Pain – To help ease menstrual pain, try drinking a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below). It’s a simple and comforting way to feel better. The warmth of the tea helps soothe cramps and makes you feel more relaxed.
- Relieve Pain – To help relieve pain, try drinking a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below). It’s an easy and natural way to feel better.
- Soothe a Stomachache – To help soothe a stomachache, drink a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below) with some honey. It’s a gentle way to settle your stomach. It’s my go-to remedy when my stomach feels upset.
- Avoid UTI Infections – To help avoid urinary tract infections (UTIs), drink a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below) daily. It’s an easy habit that can make a big difference.
- Reduce Hunger and Sugar Cravings – To help reduce hunger and curb sugar cravings, drink a glass of cinnamon tea (recipe below). It’s a simple way to manage your appetite.
- Fight Yeast Infection – To help fight a yeast infection, add cinnamon to your diet. It’s a natural and simple addition. I like to sprinkle cinnamon on my oatmeal or mix it into my yogurt. It not only tastes good but also helps keep me healthy.
- Lower Blood Sugar for Diabetes – To help lower your blood sugar, add cinnamon to your daily diet or use cinnamon capsules from the vitamin section of your favorite pharmacy. It’s an easy and natural way to manage your numbers.
good to drink
Creative Cinnamon Uses for a Cleaner Home
Cinnamon isn’t just for cooking; it’s great for cleaning too. Its natural scent makes your home smell fresh and inviting. Using cinnamon is an easy and effective way to tackle bad odors without harsh chemicals.
- Microwave Cleaner – Place a bowl of water with a teaspoon of ground cinnamon in the microwave. Heat it for a few minutes. Then, wipe down the interior for a fresh scent. This is one of my favorite tricks because it’s so easy. The steam loosens grime, and the cinnamon leaves behind a pleasant smell. It feels like magic!
- Furniture Polish – Mix ground cinnamon with a little bit of olive oil to create a natural polish for wooden furniture. This adds both shine and a pleasant aroma.
- Sink Scrub – Combine ground cinnamon with baking soda and a few drops of dish soap to make a scrub for your kitchen sink. This leaves it clean and fragrant.
Clever and Miscellaneous Ways to Use Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a versatile spice with many uses beyond cooking. Its pleasant aroma and natural properties make it useful in daily life. People use cinnamon creatively for health, beauty, and home needs. Its unique qualities offer benefits in various ways.
- Air Freshener – To make your own, fill a bowl with ground cinnamon and place it in any room. The cinnamon will release a pleasant smell over time. I love doing this because it makes my home feel cozy and inviting. Plus, it’s a
- Ants – To keep them away, sprinkle cinnamon on their trail. It helps to block their scent path and they don’t like it. It’s a simple and natural way to solve the issue.
- Incense – To make your own, put a pile of ground cinnamon in a heat-resistant dish. Light it with a match and let it burn. I enjoy doing this when I want to relax. The smell is soothing and makes my space feel calm and welcoming.
- Moths – To keep them away, break 3-4 cinnamon sticks into pieces. Mix these with half a cup of whole cloves and half a cup of peppercorns. Put 1-2 tablespoons of this mixture into small satchels. Place the satchels in areas where you want to repel moths. I love doing this for my closet. It keeps my clothes safe and leaves a nice, spicy scent.
- Stovetop Potpourri – To remove odors from your home, fill a saucepan with water. Add 1-2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon or 1-2 cinnamon sticks. Let it simmer, adding water when needed.
Must Haves
Cinnamon Facts
Recipe
Cinnamon Tea
Ingredients
- 2 quarts water
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- sugar or honey (optional)
Instructions
- Place the cinnamon stick(s) and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, and let steep for 10-15 minutes. Add sweetener, stirring until dissolved. Serve hot or pour over ice.
Notes
Nutrition
Knowing the various cinnamon uses allows you to make the most out of a single product. It saves you money, is convenient, and reduces waste and reliance on chemical-laden products. From freshening the air to cleaning your microwave, polishing furniture, and scrubbing sinks, these simple solutions are easy to try at home. Plus, they add a pleasant scent to your space. Give these ideas a go and enjoy a fresher, cleaner home with the help of cinnamon.
Linda @ With A Blast says
This is one of the most interesting ingredient USES I have seen in a long time, Robin! Especially regarding the health benefits {my daughter & myself are struggling with High Blood Cholesterol} Thank you for sharing – pinned !
Rach J DeBruin says
Really interesting uses here! I'm a holistic nutritionist and I've heard of some, but not all. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Danie' russell says
Wow, who knew there were so many uses for cinnamon. This is an awesome series, great work!
May says
I love this idea for a series. I have such respect for the wisdom of our elders.
Jamie Sherman says
Who knew? Thanks so much for linking up at All My Bloggy Friends – sharing on FB 🙂
Jonell says
Great Information thanks for compiling and sharing w us-
Jonell
Kathe says
I always love your lists Robin! Thanks for sharing this at the party this week. I will be featuring it on my Facebook page this afternoon and have pinned it to the You're Gonna Love It Tuesday board on Pinterest 🙂
Cheryl says
I love this series! I also drink cinnamon water. Just toss a stick in about 20 oz of water and refill throughout the day.
Kathy A Delightsome Life says
There's a few suggestions here that I'll give a try! This is marvelous! I am delighted that you shared with Home and Garden Thursday,
Kathy
Jann Olson says
Who knew that cinnamon did more than make cinnamon bears so yummy? lol! One of my favorite treats I might add. Love to put cinnamon and cloves in a pan and simmer at Christmas. Such a wonderful scent! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
hugs,
Jann
Kingdom Writer says
Here's another great use for cinnamon: crafts and Christmas ornaments! Found out about this when my now-26-year-old son was a preschooler. He was enrolled in a tiny tots recreational program, and they made crafts from cinnamon "clay." Put cinnamon in a zip-lock plastic bag along with enough applesauce to create a paste. Your ration would be about 1 c. cinnamon to 1 t. applesauce. Knead and continue adjusting the consistency by adding more of the two ingredients until pliable clay is formed. Roll it, ball it, press it…whatever strikes your fancy! Set aside in a dry area for two days while the clay dries out and sets up. Can be painted, glittered or whatever after it hardens. This is still one of my favorite memories of that time in my little boy's life. It's not just the memory of that time spent making things together, but also the wonderful fragrance released in our home.
Krn Chustz says
Can you use ground cinnamon for the tea,is what amounts?
Robin says
I’ve always used cinnamon sticks, never ground cinnamon. However here is a simple recipe that I found online. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon stirred into 1 cup boiled water. Personally I would use a tea strainer and steep the ground cinnamon instead of stirring it in.
Debra | Gma’sPhoto says
I love the smell of cinnamon. Especially at Christmas time!
Robin says
I agree cinnamon a Christmas is a must!
Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says
I love cinnamon, I use it to sweeten my coffee! Thanks for sharing at the What’s for Dinner party!! Enjoy the weekend and we’ll see you again on Sunday!
Debra | Gma’sPhoto says
Hi, Robin. Congratulations, your post is being featured at
Gma’sPhoto ge•ner•ic Linkup Party #40
Take care and best wishes.
I would sure appreciate your visit, participation and commenting.
Michael Taylor says
Where do you get all these ideas? I’ve always loved cinnamon and cloves. On mu last trip to Thailand, I found a vendor at a night market selling clove soap. I liked it so much, I went back the next night a bought 10 bars, hoping it would last me until my next trip to Thailand.
Robin says
I’m glad you liked the ideas! That clove soap sounds amazing. It’s great that you were able to stock up on it during your trip.
Paula says
Robin, I had no idea there are so many uses for cinnamon. I’m really glad you mentioned “true” cinnamon. Because I didn’t know there was a difference. I’m not a fan of cinnamon it’s just to strong for me. But now that I know about “true” cinnamon. There’s hope after all. Lol.
Thank You so much for sharing these wonderful uses for cinnamon with Sweet Tea & Friend’s this month. I’m so happy you’re here.
Robin says
Thank you for your thoughtful comment! I’m glad to hear you found the information about “true” cinnamon helpful. It’s great to know there’s hope for you to enjoy cinnamon now! I’m happy to be part of Sweet Tea & Friends and share these uses with everyone.