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Brief history of use of Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been employed for spiritual, medicinal, and culinary purposes for thousands of years across various cultures and geographies. Here’s a brief look at how the magical properties of cinnamon have been used spiritually in places like Egypt, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East:
Egypt
In ancient Egypt, cinnamon was a prized ingredient often reserved for rituals, religious ceremonies, and embalming practices. Given its scarcity and the cost of importing it, its use was typically confined to the upper echelons of society, including priests and pharaohs. Cinnamon was often burned as incense in temples and used in spiritual rituals aimed at invoking divine favor. Its pleasant aroma was believed to please the gods, create a harmonious atmosphere, and purify spaces.
Sri Lanka
Known as the “Spice Island,” Sri Lanka is historically one of the largest producers of cinnamon. In traditional Sri Lankan spirituality and Ayurveda, cinnamon is used for its energy-cleansing properties. The spice is often incorporated into offerings and ceremonies, especially in Buddhist practices. In the Sinhalese tradition, cinnamon is believed to have protective qualities, and its oil is sometimes used to anoint individuals during ceremonies.
Middle East
In the Middle Eastern context, cinnamon has been used for thousands of years in various religious rites, primarily in Judeo-Christian traditions. Cinnamon is mentioned several times in the Bible, often in the context of anointing oils or temple incense. The aromatic nature of cinnamon made it a natural choice for religious ceremonies, where its smell was perceived as spiritually uplifting and purifying.
Cinnamon’s Magical Properties and Spiritual Meanings
Cinnamon is frequently associated with various magical and spiritual properties across different belief systems. Here’s an overview of some of these properties and the spiritual meanings often attributed to cinnamon:
Spiritual Protection
Many cultures consider cinnamon to be a protective agent against negative energies and entities. Burning cinnamon incense or using cinnamon oil can be seen as a way to cleanse a space of negativity. This protective quality is often leveraged in Wiccan practices, where cinnamon is used in spells for protection.
Love and Passion
Cinnamon is commonly linked to love and passion. The spice is often included in love spells, and its scent is believed to arouse feelings of attraction. This is not exclusive to Western magical traditions; even in Eastern philosophies, cinnamon is often recommended to kindle romantic and sexual energies.
Prosperity and Success
In some belief systems, cinnamon is seen as a magnet for abundance. It’s often used in spells or rituals aimed at attracting wealth or success. Sprinkling cinnamon powder around your home or business is sometimes done with the intention of bringing prosperity.
Healing and Rejuvenation
Cinnamon’s soothing aroma and warming qualities make it popular in healing spells and rituals. Some people incorporate cinnamon into their meditation practices, believing it helps balance the chakras or energy centers of the body.
Psychic Abilities
Some practitioners believe cinnamon can aid in developing psychic abilities or enhance one’s connection to the spiritual realm. It’s not uncommon to find cinnamon in blends of incense used during divination practices or spiritual communication.
How to Work with Cinnamon Magically
Cleansing and Protection
Burning Cinnamon Incense or Essential Oil
When it comes to banishing negative energy and evil spirits, cinnamon incense and essential oil are a go-to for many practitioners. The belief here is that the aroma produced when these are burned helps to neutralize negativity. Not just that, the scent is thought to be distasteful to malevolent spirits, thus driving them away. Whether used during a ritual or just as a regular household practice, burning cinnamon is thought to be effective for purifying a space.
Cinnamon Sticks, Brooms, and Sachets
Another popular use of cinnamon for spiritual cleansing involves the use of cinnamon sticks, brooms, and sachets. For example, cinnamon sticks are often combined with other spiritually potent herbs and placed in sachets that are then strategically positioned in a room or carried by an individual. The cinnamon broom is another fascinating tool; often hung near entrances, it serves the dual purpose of protecting against negativity and sweeping away stagnant energy. These items can often be found adorning alters or sacred spaces to help maintain their sanctity.
Raising Positive Vibrations
Beyond simply eliminating negative energies, cinnamon is also believed to imbue spaces with positive vibrations. This makes it a popular choice not just for purification rituals but also for activities meant to attract good fortune, love, or clarity. Whether sprinkled as a powder, incorporated into candles, or used in oil form, the idea is that cinnamon has the ability to enhance the spiritual vibrations of a room, making it conducive for positive engagements and experiences.
Luck, Success, and Psychic Powers
Carrying Cinnamon in Sachets or Pouches
For centuries, people have carried cinnamon in small sachets or pouches with the hope of attracting good fortune. It’s especially popular among business owners who keep such pouches in cash registers or desks to stimulate financial flow. These sachets often contain not just cinnamon, but also other prosperity-attracting ingredients like basil or mint. The practice is considered a form of sympathetic magic, based on the idea that like attracts like: by carrying symbols of prosperity, you attract more of the same into your life.
Spells for Career, Prosperity, and Passion
When it comes to career advancement or financial success, cinnamon is a favorite in various spells and rituals. It might be used in candle magic where a green candle, representing prosperity, is anointed with cinnamon oil. In the realm of passion and sexuality, cinnamon’s warm, spicy scent is thought to be a powerful aphrodisiac, enhancing desire and physical attraction. So, whether you’re gunning for a promotion or looking to spice up your love life, cinnamon is often considered a potent ally.
Enhancing Psychic Abilities and Mental Clarity
Cinnamon is also reputed to be effective in heightening psychic abilities and creating mental clarity. It’s commonly added to herbal mixes for divination or burned as incense during meditation sessions. Some even add a dash to their morning coffee to sharpen their intuition for the day ahead. Its warming scent is believed to stimulate the third eye, the chakra associated with insight and clairvoyance, thereby enhancing psychic faculties.
Love and Relationships
Love Spells and Charms
In the realm of love magic, cinnamon is a popular ingredient, known for its potential to spark romance and desire. People often create love spells and charms that include cinnamon along with other aphrodisiac elements like roses or honey. These might be employed in various ways—some might choose to light a red candle anointed with cinnamon oil, believing that the flame helps to manifest romantic intentions. Others might create a charm bag filled with cinnamon sticks and other love-attracting items to carry with them or place under their pillow.
Adding to Baths
Cinnamon is also a common addition to ritual baths intended to make one more attractive or desirable. The spicy, warm aroma of cinnamon is believed to carry the energetic properties of the sun, radiating heat and attraction. As you soak in the bath, it’s thought that this essence permeates your aura, making you irresistibly appealing to others. Whether you’re simply looking to boost your confidence or aiming to catch someone’s eye, a cinnamon-infused bath is considered a potent ritual.
Gifting Cinnamon as a Symbol of Affection
Gifting cinnamon—whether in the form of sticks, sachets, or scented items—is considered a heartfelt gesture symbolic of affection. It could be seen as an extension of the spice’s association with warmth, comfort, and prosperity. This practice transcends magical or spiritual contexts; in some cultures, giving spices like cinnamon is a traditional gesture of goodwill and caring. In relationships, such a gift could serve as a physical representation of your warm feelings and intentions toward someone.
Healing
Dressing Spiritual Healing Candles and Incense
In the context of spiritual healing, cinnamon is often used to “dress” or anoint candles and incense. In this practice, the cinnamon, usually in oil or powdered form, is applied to the candle or incense prior to burning. This is particularly popular in traditions like Wicca and Hoodoo, where the dressing of candles is a significant aspect of spell work. The choice of cinnamon here is not arbitrary; it’s selected for its reputed healing qualities. For instance, when someone is dealing with emotional or spiritual wounds, a candle dressed with cinnamon could be used in a ritual aimed at facilitating inner healing and peace.
Aiding Spiritual Growth and Insight
Cinnamon is also believed to be beneficial for spiritual growth and development. In metaphysical circles, it’s considered a ‘fire’ element, associated with the sun, and thus linked with qualities like illumination and clarity. As such, it’s thought to foster deeper spiritual insight when used in meditative practices or ritual work. Some might add a sprinkle of cinnamon to a journal where they record dreams or spiritual experiences, believing the spice will attract higher wisdom. Others might burn cinnamon incense during meditation sessions, thinking its warming fragrance stimulates the third eye chakra, encouraging spiritual awareness.
Magical Correspondences of Cinnamon:
| Category | Correspondence | Application or Significance |
| Elemental Association | Fire | Used in spells and rituals related to transformation, willpower, and action. |
| Deity Connection | Apollo | Offerings of cinnamon may be made to invoke favor or guidance in arts, prophecy, and healing. |
| Planetary Rule | Sun | Effective in spells aimed at personal growth, confidence, and charisma. |
| Symbolic Aspects | Spirituality | Incorporated into rituals to deepen spiritual awareness. |
Protection | Used to safeguard spaces and individuals from negative energies. | |
| Luck | Employed to attract good fortune, especially in business and finance. | |
| Season | Summer | Its warming properties make it popular during summertime rituals. |
| Chakra Alignment | Solar Plexus | Believed to stimulate the third chakra, enhancing personal power. |
| Ritual Types | Healing, Love, Prosperity | Commonly used in spells aimed at physical and emotional healing, romantic endeavors, and wealth accumulation. |
| Forms | Stick, Powder, Oil | Various forms used depending on the specific ritual or spell. |
Interesting Facts About Cinnamon
Origin of the Name
The name “cinnamon” originates from the Hebrew word for spice. The scientific name for the true or Ceylon cinnamon is “Cinnamomum zeylanicum,” with “zeylanicum” referring to the ancient name for Sri Lanka, the spice’s primary place of origin. This etymology gives a nod to the historical and cultural richness of the spice, linking it to both the Middle Eastern and South Asian regions.
Long History in Herbal Medicine
Cinnamon has a long history of use in herbal medicine. This dates back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt and China, where it was revered not just as a culinary spice but as a powerful medicinal herb. The compound cinnamaldehyde, responsible for its distinct aroma, is also believed to have antifungal and antibacterial properties. While modern medicine has shifted towards synthetic drugs, the role of cinnamon in herbal medicine remains significant in alternative healing practices.
Use in Holy Anointing Oils
In various religious traditions, particularly in Christianity and Judaism, cinnamon was once used in holy anointing oils. The Bible, for instance, mentions cinnamon as one of the components of the sacred oil used to anoint priests and sacred objects. This gives cinnamon a dimension of spiritual sanctity, elevating it beyond its more mundane applications.
One of the Most Widely Used Spices Globally
Today, cinnamon is one of the most widely used spices in kitchens around the world. It’s a staple in an array of cuisines, from the sweet cinnamon rolls in America to the savory curry dishes in India. But beyond its culinary reach, it’s also renowned for its aforementioned medicinal and spiritual attributes. Its widespread use marks it as a versatile and globally cherished spice.
Potential Health Benefits of Cinnamon
May Help Lower Blood Sugar, Cholesterol, and Triglycerides
One of the most lauded health benefits of cinnamon is its potential impact on metabolic markers like blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Studies have shown that cinnamon can increase insulin sensitivity and improve the effectiveness of insulin, thereby helping to lower blood sugar levels. Similarly, the spice has demonstrated the ability to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while maintaining or even raising HDL (“good” cholesterol).
Potential Benefits for Blood Pressure and Immune Function
Another compelling area of research focuses on cinnamon’s possible benefits for blood pressure and immune system functionality. Cinnamon contains compounds that are believed to act on smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells in blood vessels, potentially leading to blood pressure reduction. In terms of immune health, cinnamon has antimicrobial properties that may help the body fight off infections.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Cinnamon is packed with antioxidants that neutralize free radicals in the body, mitigating oxidative stress. This antioxidant activity is linked to anti-inflammatory effects, which are crucial for fighting chronic inflammation associated with various conditions like heart disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties are of particular interest in cardiovascular health, where inflammation plays a significant role.
Recommended Dosage in Research
It’s important to note that most of the research on cinnamon’s health benefits has been conducted using doses ranging from 1 to 6 grams per day. This suggests a guideline for those interested in incorporating cinnamon into their health regimen, although it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Which Parts of Cinnamon Should You Use?
Cinnamon Sticks: Whole or Ground
Cinnamon comes in various forms, and one of the most traditional is cinnamon sticks. These can be used whole—for instance, as a stirrer in hot drinks—or ground down into a powder. The ground form is commonly used in cooking and baking, while the sticks are often a go-to for mulled drinks and aromatic decor.
Bark Oil for Aroma and Topical Use
Derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree, cinnamon bark oil is another form that’s particularly popular for its concentrated aroma. It’s frequently used in diffusers for its scent and is believed to have antimicrobial properties. When it comes to topical application, this oil is often diluted with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.
Cinnamon Leaf Oil Is Different
Often confused with bark oil, cinnamon leaf oil is an entirely separate product with different properties and applications. Generally considered milder than the bark oil, leaf oil is used in similar ways but is often less expensive. It’s essential to know which you’re using, as their concentration and effects can differ.
Safe Ingestion but Caution with Excess
Cinnamon is generally safe to ingest in small, culinary amounts. However, when consumed in excess—especially in concentrated forms like essential oils or supplements—it can lead to potential side effects such as liver damage or allergic reactions.
Conclusion
The magickal aspects of cinnamon have been known since ancient times, with uses dating back to ancient Egyptians and Romans. Cinnamon magic can be employed in money spells, inspiring business success, and career advancement.
This powerful herb contains inherent spiritual powers and is one of the most versatile magical herbs. Across many traditions, cinnamon is used to cleanse sacred spaces and imbue them with positive energy.
In the United States and Europe, cinnamon became popular not just for its culinary uses but its purported medicinal properties and abilities to remedy ailments like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Cinnamon’s spiritual meaning encompasses protection, prosperity, passion, and luck. Magickal tools like cinnamon incense, cinnamon oil, and pouches containing cinnamon sticks or powder are powerful additions to spells and rituals.
Cinnamon can be used in many different ways to attract money, love, and good health. Truly, cinnamon is a positive, healing herb that has long been valued for its magickal properties and uses.
References for Further Reading
Magickal and Spiritual Uses
- “The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells” by Judika Illes: A comprehensive source for various spells and rituals, including the use of cinnamon.
- “Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs” by Scott Cunningham: This book delves into the magickal properties of various herbs, including cinnamon.
Folk Magic Traditions
- “The Witch’s Book of Shadows” by Phyllis Curott: This book explores various traditions within witchcraft, including the use of cinnamon.
- “The Kitchen Witch: A Year-round Witch’s Brew of Seasonal Recipes, Lotions and Potions for Every Pagan Festival” by Soraya: Offers information on “kitchen witchery,” including the use of cinnamon.
Health Benefits
- “The Effect of Cinnamon on Glucose of Type II Diabetes Patients” – Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine: A study examining the impact of cinnamon on blood glucose levels.
- “Antioxidant activity of cinnamon extracts” – Bioresource Technology: Discusses cinnamon’s antioxidant properties.
Safe Usage and Precautions
- “Toxicity of Cinnamon Oil: A Review” – Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology: Covers the safety aspects of using concentrated cinnamon oil.