Traditionally, cinnamon was used to treat ailments typical of women, due to its supposed beneficial effects on menstrual irregularities.We investigate about cinnamon tea for menstruation, its benefits and how to use it. Find out with us if it really works!
Cinnamon tea for period: does it work?
In independent research from each other, one from 2015 and another from 2018, two groups of scientists studied the effects of cinnamon on conditions related to menstruation, such as severe cramps, excessive bleeding, irregularity and the presence of other symptoms such as vomiting and dizziness.
The conclusions about the benefits of cinnamon tea were more than interesting. They exhaustively demonstrated that cinnamon is a strong ally for women with menstrual problems. Cinnamon tea can help reduce bleeding, relieve painful cramps quickly and effectively, as well as lessen the intensity of PMS-related symptoms. All in a safe way, without adverse side effects or high levels of toxicity if used in moderate amounts.
In addition, cinnamon tea is used to advance menstruation quickly, as it stimulates uterine contractions as long as it is taken one or two days before the possible appearance of the period. Cinnamon tea is also good for delays if they are less than a month.
The action of cinnamon on menstruation may be due to its action as a vasodilator, as it increases blood flow in the uterus and helps promote regular bleeding. On the other hand, cinnamon tea is also antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory, so it not only contributes to regular periods, but also reduces pain.
In addition to its properties for the period, cinnamon tea also has slimming qualities.
How to make cinnamon tea
Making cinnamon tea is quite simple, plus it’s delicious and easy to incorporate into your daily routine. It can be taken both hot and cold, although it is recommended to take it hot on the first day of menstruation to help relax the muscles and avoid painful contractions.
The preparation is done in two ways, it all depends on the type of presentation of the cinnamon that is possessed. In the case of whole or “stick” cinnamon, the cinnamon stick should be boiled in a cup of water or approximately 235 ml of water. The preparation time is about 10 or 15 minutes.
If, on the other hand, you have the spice already ground, boil the cup of water and then add about a teaspoon or 2.6 grams of cinnamon powder. While the water cools, let the cinnamon rest. Although you can if you wish, it is not necessary to strain the infusion.
It is important to note that specialists in traditional or alternative medicine prefer Ceylon cinnamon instead of cassia cinnamon, as well as prefer to use it whole. If you only have a jar of commercial brand cinnamon powder on hand and you are not sure which variety it belongs to, you can still use it, but be aware that the properties may not be the same.
Cinnamon infusion: contraindications
Although cinnamon is generally quite safe, there are conditions that can be aggravated by regular consumption of this spice. Keep in mind some of the contraindications of cinnamon tea:
- If you suffer from gastric reflux or stomach ulcers: People with this condition should avoid this spice, since it tends to irritate and damage the lining of the digestive tract. For this same reason, very high doses or taking it for a long time should be avoided.
- If foods or medications that affect the gastric walls are consumed: it is preferable not to consume it together with medications or foods that affect the gastric walls, especially if they are sweets with sugar and mint such as candies and chewing gum. Together they may cause inflammation and ulcers in the oral cavity, including the throat.
- If you suffer from platelet or coagulation problems: Another condition that can prevent you from enjoying cinnamon tea is having a low platelet count or coagulation problems. If you are taking blood thinners, keep in mind that cinnamon can enhance their effects, as it is, in itself, a mild blood thinner. People with liver or kidney problems should also avoid the tea.
To regulate menstruation, the general recommendation is to drink cinnamon tea once a day in the week before the menstrual period starts and on the first day of the menstrual cycle. Then, it is advisable to discontinue consumption.
Cinnamon in pregnancy
Pregnancy and lactation is a time contraindicated for the consumption of the infusion. This is because it can alter the hormonal balance characteristic of these two periods. In any case, it can be consumed from time to time as an ingredient in any sweet or savory dish. It is not necessary to avoid it completely and you can still reap its benefits.