The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Cinnamon
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

Cinnamon is the dried inner bark of certain tropical Asian trees of the genus Cinnamomum. It is most commonly used in stick or powdered form to add flavor to foods and beverages, but it also has various medicinal and magical uses. Sri Lanka is a major source of cinnamon, as are Indonesia and China.

HISTORY/LORE

Cinnamon has been used in Chinese medicine for over 4,000 years. In ancient Egypt, it was not only consumed; it was also used in embalming practices. Legend has it that the Roman emperor Nero (37—68) burned all the cinnamon he could find on the funeral pyre of his second wife, Poppaea Sabina, to punish himself for his role in her death. Cinnamon is mentioned in the Bible as an ingredient in anointing oil.

USES

Healing Uses: Cinnamon relieves stomach discomfort, including morning sickness and motion sickness, and can be used to treat digestive problems such as gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. Cinnamon is also useful for treating sore throats, coughs, colds, headaches, and the flu. In Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon is used as a remedy for diabetes.

Magical Uses: Cinnamon relates to the element of fire and is therefore extra powerful when burned. Burn cinnamon as incense to bring love or ignite passion. Use cinnamon in love or sex spells, or to enhance psychic powers. Hang a bundle of cinnamon sticks above the doorway to protect the home from negative influences.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Cinnamon is a powerful healer, both physically and emotionally. It is the perfect spice for when you are feeling down or depressed. Use it in a sachet to raise protective and spiritual vibrations. Cinnamon brings good fortune in matters of money and business as well as games of chance. See the cinnamon entry in Chapter 4 to learn about the benefits of cinnamon essential oil.