The aromatic scent of cinnamon is powerful because it makes many people feel warm and fuzzy. The health benefits of cinnamon have taken the backseat in favor of its spice properties. Many health experts claim that a dash of cinnamon can be a way to add flavor to many dishes and at the same time improve one's health in many ways.

For centuries, cinnamon has been used for traditional medicine and other therapeutic purposes. Many studies have supported the ancient health claims of this spice. Cinnamon is most known to medical experts because of its ability to fight fungal infections, prevent ulcers, treat tooth decay and gum disease, and alleviate gum disease.

Cinnamon oil may help prevent dental cavities, according to a study published in the December 2011 issue of the journal "Acta Biomedica." In the test tube study, cinnamon proved nearly twice as effective against Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that leads to dental plaque formation, as clove oil, which has been used widely as an oral antiseptic and pain reliever. Cinnamon oil was also more effective as a broad-spectrum antibiotic against 10 different species of bacteria that cause dental cavities. Researchers concluded that cinnamon oil shows greater potential for promoting oral health than clove oil.

Recent studies show that cinnamon can be used as an alternative medicine for heart health. Before stating the connection between heart health and cinnamon, the causes of heart disease should be tackled. The common causes of heart disease are:

· Tobacco smoke – Cigarette smoking is one of the major risk factor for cardiac death in patients with coronary heart disease. People who smoke cigars or cigarettes have increased risk of acquiring coronary heart ailments.

· High cholesterol levels – As one's cholesterol levels rises, so does the risk of heart disease. Age, sex, and diet are some of the factors that determine one's cholesterol level.

· Lack of physical activity – Physical inactivity is one of the the major factors for developing heart disease. Heart disease is characterized by deposits of fatty substance, cholesterol, and other substances that may block the lining of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

· Obesity and excess weight – Excess weight increases the work load of the heart and raises the blood pressure and cholesterol level. As this happens, the risk of heart disease heightens.

In addition to this factors, an individual's response to stress can be a contributing factor. Some health specialists have noted the relationship between coronary heart disease and stressful lifestyle. For example, stressed people may start to smoke. Drinking too much alcohol can cause heart failure and eventually lead to stroke. It can contribute to obesity, alcoholism, and accidents.

Cinnamon can be used as an alternative to treat heart disease. This spice supports healthy blood sugar levels and also improves cholesterol levels. Cinnamon can reduce diabetes because of an active molecule in cinnamon called proanthricyanidin. This molecule functions by activating insulin receptors within the cell, therefore facilitating the cell to use glucose for energy and therefore lowering glucose and lipid workers. Cholesterol and diabetes are often common risk factors for heart disease.

In addition, cinnamon has an antibacterial-inflammatory attribute that can reduce joint and muscle pain, especially the ones associated with arthritis. Many studies show that diabetics taking daily doses of cinnamon may regulate their blood sugar levels. Cinnamon can also benefit one's health by improving the body's circulation. It also improves the digestive system and relieve many stomach discomforts. Studies add that a daily dose of cinnamon may relieve pains associated with their menstrual cycle.

While cinnamon can provide many health benefits including preventing gum disease and improving overall well-being, the best options are taking cinnamon supplements or eating half a teaspoon of cinnamon than what individuals normally eat. Lastly, the advice of medical specialists should be considered before trying cinnamon supplements and other forms of alternative medicine, as side effects and interactions with other drugs may take place.