8 things you didn't know you could do with cinnamon

Cinnamon is a very common and well known cooking ingredient, but it actually has so many more uses than what most people realise. Whether you are putting it in your food or on your face (yes, really) cinnamon is an amazing superfood. So check the back of your kitchen cupboards for that long forgotten jar of cinnamon and give this spice a new lease of life!

Clear up spotty skin

If you think cinnamon is just to be eaten in food, think again! It can make an amazing face mask that can help clear acne and oily skin. The simplest recipe is to mix about 3 spoonfuls of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix it together and apply it to your face, the cinnamon has antibacterial properties to help with spots and the honey will reduce redness and restore moisture. You only need to keep it on for about 10 minutes and then simply wash it off.

Breath Freshner

Gargle some warm cinnamon water to instantly sweeten your breath!

Lip plumper

Thinking of getting lip fillers? Why not give this natural remedy for plumper lips a go first. Simply get your favourite lip balm, pop some on your lips and then rub a pinch of cinnamon in. Cinnamon is an active ingredient and will tingle slightly and middle irritate your lips, making them fuller! If you have a lip scrub you can also add cinnamon to that before applying - or make your own!

Boost your brain power

Adding a scoop of cinnamon to your morning coffee can boost your bran power for the day, making you more alert and focussed as well as helping with cognitive function and memory.

Help an illness

Drop some cinnamon sticks or a few pinches of cinnamon to your bath and it can help remove toxins from the body, which is especially helpful after an illness (or during!) It can also help raise your body temperature in the winter months. Plus it will smell amazing!

Weight loss

Cinnamon helps to reduce hunger and sugar cravings, which can lead to weight loss. For those with diabetes it is a really helpful spice.

Insect bite treatment

Mix cinnamon and honey together if you get an insect bite, as it will help relieve itching and pain. It will also help to disinfect the area and heal it!

Food preservative

If you like to prep your meals, adding cinnamon could be a great trick for you, as it helps to preserve the freshness of the food and delays bacterial growth.