Cinnamon bark comes from a small evergreen tree (Cinnamomum verum), that is native to India
and Sri Lanka,where it has been traditionally used as a spice.Cinnamon bark is a very common
ingredient in products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, chewing gum, and soft drinks. Also many
feel it it helpful in handling certain ailments and other issues. Herbalists recommend cinnamon bark
to help with digestive problems, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, asthma brought on by cold, backache,
menstrual problems, etc.Scientists at the Agricultural Research Service have found polyphenolic
polymer compoundsfrom cinnamon bark that could become natural ingredients in products aimed
at lowering blood sugar levels. Recent studies demonstrate that watersoluble polymeric compounds
isolated from cinnamon basrk have insulinenhancing biological activity in the in vitro assay
measuring the insulindependent effects on glucosetabolism and also function as antioxidants.
Cinnamaldehyde is the main constituent of oils of cassia, cinnamon barks and roots.
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