Holly plant

What is a Holly plant?

Holly is native to the Western and Southern parts of Europe, West Asia, and North Africa. They grow best in calcareous soils in moist and shady areas. It is an evergreen tree or shrub belonging to the family Aquifoliaceae and from the female flower, a red firm fruit with 4-5 hard seeds is formed. 

What are the health benefits of the Holly plant?

The drupe, the berry, has a bitter taste and is very poisonous, therefore the only part of the plant used for medicinal purposes is the leaves. Holly leaves have been used for coughs, digestive disorders, water retention, and jaundice. The plant contains triterpenes (alpha and beta-amyrin, and ursolic acid), flavonoids, nitrile glycosides, phytosterols, caffeic acid, a bitter alkaloid called ilicin, chlorogenic acid, and traces of theobromine. 

Leaves: It is believed that the leaves have diuretic, laxative, and sudorific (sweat inducing) properties. The herb can be used in a hot tea to reduce a fever, treat bronchitis, the common cold, water retention, and even certain digestive conditions. Its extract can also be used to treat jaundice. 

Ilex opaca (a species of holly) leaves: Used primarily to cleanse the bowels, stimulate the heart, and increase urine flow. Historically, it was used in a fruit tea to be a heart stimulant by American Indians. 

Ilex aquifolium leaves: Used for treating fevers, joint pain (rheumatism), swelling, water retention, and chest congestion.

Other holly species: Used to treat heart disease, dizziness, and high blood pressure. 

Are there any side effects or things to look out for?

Being that Holly is rarely ever used in today’s herbal medicine, there is not enough information available when it comes to its proper dosage. Based on the traditional use, 2-3 teaspoons of dried leaves and a cup of hot water are used for the herbal tea. The leaves can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach and intestinal problems. The spines on the leaf can tear or puncture the inside of the mouth and along the digestive tract during consumption. DO NOT EAT THE BERRIES!

What is the Holly plants relationship with Christmas?

It is believed that the crown of thorns on the head of Jesus before crucifixion was made from holly twigs (Ilex aquifolium) and the red berries symbolized his blood. Another legend believes that the holly plant first emerged from the footsteps of Jesus Christ, and the thorns and red fruits symbolized his sufferings. Individuals use holly for wreaths and place them above entrances to bring happiness and goodwill to those entering. 

Sources:

https://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/holly-herb-benefits.html

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-511/holly

Picture sources:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/bushing-christmas-decoration-christmas-holly-european-holly-161409/

https://www.bhg.com/christmas/wreaths/

http://thefullbouquetblog.com/2011/04/21/crown-of-thorns/

https://plantaddicts.com/berry-heavy-winterberry-holly

Aloe Vera

  

What is Aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a thick, short-stemmed plant. Each of its leaves is filled with a slimy “gel-like” tissue that stores water. It grows in hot, dry climates, and in the U.S. it grows in Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Aloe vera is used in cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

First recorded use?

Aloe vera’s earliest record of human use was in the Ebers Papyrus (an Egyptian medical record) from the 16^thcentury BC. In Egypt, Aloe vera was known as “that plant of immortality.” The plant had been used therapeutically for centuries in China, Japan, India, Greece, Egypt, and Mexico. 

What are the health benefits?

The gel: Contains most of the bioactive compounds in the plant, which are vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants.

Bacterial growth: Aloe vera contains powerful antioxidants, which is a substance in the family of polyphenols, and antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of bad bacteria within the body.

Heals burns: The solid gel substance in the leaves can be directly rubbed on a site with a first and/or second-degree burn. In 1959 the FDA approved an over-the-counter Aloe vera ointment for skin burns. Studies have shown that Aloe vera reduces the amount of healing time of a burn. 

Reduces plaque: A study of 300 people found that using pure Aloe vera juice for 4 days showed that the rinse was as effective as using chlorhexidine in reducing the amount of plaque on an individual’s teeth. Aloe vera does this by directly killing the plaque-producing bacterium in the mouth. 

The latex: Underneath the skin of the leaf, one can find the sticky yellow residue which is known as the latex of the Aloe vera plant. The latex portion of the plant can help treat constipation. The compound responsible for this is aloin, or barbaloin, and the established laxative effects. Aloe latex has not been an over-the-counter medication since 2002 in the U.S. because it does not seem to help against other digestive disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. Discuss with your physician if taking Aloe latex is for you, and if so, what dosage you should be given to prevent any further digestive problems. 

Improve aging skin: In a study of 30 women, the Aloe vera gel application showed an increase in the amount of collagen produced providing the skin with more elasticity. It can also reduce erythema (skin redness) while dehydrating the skin. 

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318591.php

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265800.php

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-607/aloe

Picture sources:

https://www.gomeranoticias.com/2016/02/24/la-camara-reclama-el-respaldo-del-gobierno-autonomico-a-la-produccion-de-aloe-vera-en-canarias/

https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/aloe-vera-leaf-16786244433.html

https://www.naturalhealers.com/holistic-health/aloe-vera-ultimate-guide/

https://aaptiv.com/magazine/aloe-vera-juice-benefits

Eucalyptus

What is a eucalyptus plant?

Eucalyptus is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to Australia but now grows in other places as well, which includes some of the tallest flowering plants on the Earth. It can be purchased at a floral shop or in the floral section of a grocery store.

Information about eucalyptus:

There are over 400 different species of eucalyptus. The Chinese, Indian Ayurvedic, Greek, and other European styles of medicine have used eucalyptus for thousands of years. In order to get the strong, sweet, and woody scent from the eucalyptus, one must distill the leaves to extract the oil which is a colorless liquid. 

What are the health benefits?

Antimicrobial properties:

In England, eucalyptus oil has been used to clean urinary catheters and now research is being conducted to determine new strategies on how E. camaldulensis essential oil (a type of Eucalyptus) and existing antibiotics could interact together to treat infections. Researchers have found that essential oils from eucalyptus leaves are effective against strains of bacteria, such as E. coli and Staph infections.  

Respiratory problems: 

It can help relieve cold-like symptoms and when fresh leaves are used, one can gargle to relieve a sore throat, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Eucalyptus oils have been used in many cough medications, such as Vicks VapoRub. 

Oral care:

Research has shown that individuals who chew gum with eucalyptus extract had a lower amount of plaque build-up and healthier gums while improving bad breath and gingivitis in other people. 

Pain relief:

Research has shown that eucalyptus oil may have analgesic properties that help with pain relief. Eucalyptamint has been used to treat muscle and joint pain that is linked to sprains, arthritis, bruising, and backache. Studies have shown that when the eucalyptus ointment was put on the participants, they had temporary pain relief which is useful for athletes after a game and before a warmup since the ointment raises muscle temperature. Eucalyptus also has anti-inflammatory properties that could help people with arthritis. 

What are the best ways to use eucalyptus to receive these health benefits?

Put it on your shower head! It is not a very new thing to do, but people have been putting a eucalyptus plant in their shower to help with a stuffy nose and relieve stress from a long day. 

Use the leaves as a diluted essential oil. This can simply be placed on the inflamed region of skin or on the chest to relieve congestion but keep it away from the eyes as it may cause irritation. 

Help improve soil condition from the wood of a eucalyptus plant. The wood can also help control the growth of weeds and be used as an insecticide. To use the wood, treat it as mulch and chop the wood into little pieces and the oils in the mulch will do the rest!

Watch out for:

When purchasing eucalyptus oils make sure the oil is diluted before applying it directly to the skin. Also, do not consume eucalyptus oil if it has NOT been diluted because ~3.5mL can be fatal. Also, eucalyptus leaves have been known to help lower blood sugar levels in those with diabetes but if eucalyptus leaves are consumed while taking diabetic medications, the blood level could lower too much, so consult with a physician beforehand. 

This is a rainbow eucalyptus:

It actually looks like this and it is native to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines!

Sources: 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266580.php

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-700/eucalyptus

https://www.prevention.com/life/a24744726/hanging-eucalyptus-plant-in-the-shower/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus_deglupta

Picture sources:

https://www.amazon.com/Eucalyptamint-Arthritis-Relief-Formula-Boxes/dp/B002OHE5VW

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5755377/The-simple-shower-decorating-trick-help-sleep-better.html

https://www.thegrowers-exchange.com/Eucalyptus_Silver_Drop_p/her-euc01.htm

Apples

"An apple a day keeps the Doctor away"

Where did the saying “an apple day keeps the doctor away” come from? 

The phrase was first used in the 1860s from an old saying in Pembrokeshire in Wales. The original phrase was, “eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” Over the years, it had been changed and shortened to accommodate modern language and the most common version used today was first used in 1922. Due to the phrase, there has been research conducted to see if eating an apple each day can actually reduce the number of visits to the doctor’s office. In 2011, a Dutch study found that eating apples and pears can help reduce the chances of having a stroke. In 2012, Ohio State University found that eating an apple a day helped lower the level of bad cholesterol in middle-aged adults. Overall, the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” seems to be pretty accurate!

What are the health benefits of apples?

They are really nutritious:

A medium sized apple is equivalent to eating 1.5 cups of fruit. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and polyphenols. Polyphenols can help increase an individual’s energy level, improve digestion, block histamine which causes allergic reactions (like itching and inflammation), decreases organ fat and manage fat cells, increase muscle strength, lower cholesterol, etc. If apples aren’t your thing, but you still want the health benefits of an apple’s polyphenol, there is a 100% pure apple polyphenol extract (ROS) that is a good substitution for apples that doctors recommend!

Weight loss:

Apples can be very filling since they are high in fiber and water. Studies have shown that eating an apple, as opposed to applesauce, juice, or non-apple products can make an individual more full while taking in 200 fewer calories than those who don’t eat the fruit. Since an individual will feel fuller, they won’t have the drive to keep eating, therefore it will help them lose the weight. 

Promote a healthy gut:

The pectin in apples is a type of fiber that acts as a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the good bacteria in the gut. Research has shown that pectin might be the reason for an apples ability to prevent obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease in an individual. 

Good for bone health:

Eating apples are also linked to a higher bone density, meaning better bone health, because of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that it contains. A study had shown that those who ate fresh apples, lost less calcium than the other groups. 

Good for an aging brain:

An animal study showed that drinking apple juice reduced the harmful reactive oxygen species in brain tissue and minimized mental decline. The juice can preserve acetylcholine which declines as we get older. Research has shown that low levels of acetylcholine are linked to Alzheimer’s disease.  

Do all apples have the same health benefits?

All apples are good for you, but studies have shown that eating Granny Smith apples promote the growth of friendly bacteria in the colon. Additionally, Red Delicious, Northern Spy, and Ida Red have the highest amount of antioxidants and polyphenols. 

Is there anything to watch out for when eating apples?

Apples are acidic, and the juice can damage tooth enamel. I grew up thinking that the core of an apple is extremely toxic and shouldn’t eat it, while in reality, you actually can. If you chew or swallow a few apple seeds, it might produce a small amount of hydrogen cyanide (which is toxic), but the amount is so small that the body can just flush it out during digestion. I personally will not try this at home, but people have eaten the seeds and lived to tell the tale. Basically, eating an apple a day is okay!

Eating a whole apple with the skin on will provide you with the most health benefits!

Sources:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/history-behind-an-apple-a-day/2013/09/24/aac3e79c-1f0e-11e3-94a2-6c66b668ea55_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.259177b5c904

http://apple-polyphenols.com

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-apples#section5

https://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/nutrition/what-is-the-healthiest-apple/

https://www.livescience.com/44686-apple-nutrition-facts.html

https://www.wired.com/2016/09/heres-many-apple-cores-take-poison/

Picture sources:

https://www.rd.com/food/fun/supermarket-apples-10-months-old/

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/12/131217210549.htm

https://www.top10homeremedies.com/pets/10-toxic-foods-not-give-to-dog.html

Pumpkins

Not just for carving!

What is a pumpkin?

Since it is the result of a seed-bearing structure of a flowering plant, a pumpkin is classified as a fruit. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and is also low in calories. The leaves, seeds, and juices are used for its health benefits. It’s also that thing you probably carve for Halloween!

Is it considered a gourd?

Gourds are a hard-shelled durable fruit that is grown for ornament, utensils (bottles or containers), food, medicine, musical instruments, artistic media, and other general interests when the fruit is dried. A pumpkin is not a gourd, but it is related to it. Pumpkins, along with gourds and squash, are in the Cucurbitaceae family, which contains over 700 species. 

What are some health benefits associated with it?

Beta-carotene: Not only does it give pumpkins its bright orange appearance, but it is also a powerful antioxidant. The body is able to ingest beta-carotene and convert it to Vitamin A, which helps with immune function, vision, cellular communication, and the creation of white blood cells. Beta-carotene can also reduce the chances of getting cancer. It offers protection against asthma and heart disease, delays aging and body degeneration. 

Seeds and pulp: They help control diabetes by helping the tissues and intestine absorb glucose and balance the levels of glucose in the liver. Currently, pumpkin is being studied to hopefully become an anti-diabetic medication to lower the risk of having type 2 diabetes. The pumpkin seeds and pulp are also high in Vitamin C and beta-carotene, which helps the immune system. Vitamin C is necessary for the biosynthesis of collagen and neurotransmitters and is involved in protein metabolism. 

Fiber: Pumpkins are a good source of fiber. Fiber is a necessity because it helps slows the rate of sugar absorption into the blood and allows for regular digestion and healthier bowel movements. If individuals can ingest the required amount of daily fiber (~25-30g), then they can reduce their chances of getting colon cancer. 

Potassium: Potassium reduces the risk of stroke, protects against a loss of muscle mass, preserves bone mineral density, and helps regulate high blood pressure. 

What are some different ways that I can consume a pumpkin?

One can make a pumpkin puree and use either the pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin to replace oil and butter in a baking recipe. Cook the seeds with a little bit of salt, make a fruit smoothie or make a pie. For the most health benefits, avoid using canned pumpkin pie mix because of all the added sugars and syrups which is usually right next to the canned pumpkin which only contains pumpkin in it. 

Are there any warnings/ side effects when eating a pumpkin?

Currently, not much research has been conducted to determine the medicinal amounts of pumpkin during pregnancy, so consult with a physician before consuming it. Pumpkin also might affect how well the body gets rid of lithium, which can cause some serious side effects.

Sources:

https://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/pumpkins-fruit-vegetable-difference-two

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279610.php

http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/gardening-help-faqs/questionid/274/afmid/4462.aspx

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-810/pumpkin

Picture Sources:

http://www.exploreminnesota.com/travel-ideas/minnesota-pumpkin-patches-fall-family-adventure/

http://www.amishgourds.com/store/page/441664

https://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/pumpkin-health-benefits

https://timetoleave.earth/abc-reveals-when-its-the-great-pumpkin-charlie-brown-will-air/

Vegetables

"Kids, eat your veggies!" 

What is the definition of a vegetable?

A vegetable is a plant that is used as food, or the part of a plant, such as a root, stem, or flower, that is used for food. 

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/vegetable

How can you tell between a vegetable and a fruit?

A fruit is a seed-bearing structure that develops from the ovary of a flowering plant, and a vegetable (as stated before) is all the other parts of the plants, such as the stem, leaves, flowers, and roots. 

What are some examples of vegetables?

Some examples of vegetables include: celery, asparagus, broccoli, lettuce, radishes, peas, cabbage, carrots, and many more! 

What are some specific health benefits?

Celery: 

Contains apigenin (currently being studied for its anti-cancer properties), which reduces inflammation and restores immune balance. Also, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that celery seeds help with arthritis, gout, muscle spasms, high blood pressure, colds, flu, and water retention. 

 Broccoli:

It is known as a good source of Vitamin K and C, folic acid, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin K is essential for the functioning of many proteins involved in blood clotting. Folic acid helps maintain new cells in the body. Vitamin C builds collagen for the formation of tissues and bones and is also an antioxidant.

Carrot:

If broccoli isn’t your thing, carrots are also a good source of fiber, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants. Its orange color comes from beta-carotene which is an antioxidant that is converted to Vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A promotes good vision, preventing one’s vision from getting worse. Carrots are also beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels. 

Radish:

Radishes help clean out the liver and stomach (detoxifying it). There are a variety of different types of radishes with different health benefits, for example, the black radish (along with its leaves) has been used to combat jaundice because it can get rid of excess bilirubin. Radishes also provide the body with potassium, which helps lower blood pressure and individuals who suffer from hypertension. Red radishes contain Vitamin E, A, C, B6, and K, and its high with antioxidants. They also help keep the body hydrated because of its high water content. 

How many vegetables should an individual have in a day? 

Is there such a thing as having too many vegetables?

There is such thing as eating too many veggies. Many of the veggies described above have fiber, and even though the body can handle more of the recommended amount (25 grams per day) of fiber, too much can disturb the stomach. For example, the individual could experience digestive distress, gas, bloating, and severe constipation. Also, if your stomach is trying to process all the plants being consumed, other foods become less healthy because the stomach is not properly digesting those other foods. Basically, eating too many veggies can cause the body discomfort and if one consumes too many carotenoids they can alter their skin coloration. 

REMEMBER: Eat your veggies, just don't go crazy! 

Sources: 

https://www.livescience.com/33991-difference-fruits-vegetables.html

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270678.php

https://www.healthyeating.org/Healthy-Eating/All-Star-Foods/Vegetables/Article-Viewer/Article/91/health-benefits-of-broccoli

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/carrots#section5

https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/10-incredible-radish-benefits-the-power-source-of-potassium-vitamin-c-and-fiber-1397076

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/servings-of-vegetables-per-day#section2

https://www.thedailymeal.com/healthy-eating/yes-it-possible-eat-too-many-vegetables

                

Picture sources:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/492229434246987231/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/servings-of-vegetables-per-day#section2

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2012/02/if-you-eat-an-excessive-amount-of-carrots-your-skin-will-turn-an-orangishyellow-shade/

http://delightfullyfull.com/veggie-trayn/

Marijuana plant

What is marijuana?

Marijuana comes from the plant Cannabis sativa. When using marijuana for medicinal purposes, the whole, unprocessed plant is used. The same ingredients are in the medicinal and recreational marijuana, but when marijuana is used in health care, it is grown to have fewer chemicals that cause the feeling of euphoria. 

How is it used for medicinal purposes?

There are cannabinoids, an active chemical in medical marijuana, which is similar to the chemicals in the body that impacts appetite, memory, movement, and pain. Research suggests that cannabinoids can reduce anxiety, inflammation, kill cancer cells, slow tumor growth, relax tight muscles in people with MS. 

What are the health benefits of medical marijuana?

Although there have not been much research studies with medical marijuana, it has been used to treat cancer, Crohn’s disease, muscle spasms, appetite loss, nausea, and pain.

Is marijuana always good?

There is recreational marijuana that is a greenish-gray mixture of dried flowers, also from the Cannabis sativa. Individuals smoke or consume recreational marijuana to receive a feeling of euphoria or the sensation of being “high.” 

Is it addictive?

Marijuana is addictive. Research data suggests that 30% of marijuana users have some degree of marijuana use disorder, which is a form of addiction in severe cases. 

What are some side effects of using marijuana for non-medicinal purposes?

The side effects of using marijuana are bloodshot eyes, depression, dizziness, fast heartbeat, hallucinations, and low blood pressure. It can also adversely impact judgment, coordination, and IQ if the drug is taken during the teenage years while the brain is still developing. 

Is medical marijuana approved by the FDA?

Since there hasn’t been much research done with medical marijuana, the FDA has not approved the drug. There have been two man-made cannabinoid medicines that have been approved by the FDA called dronabinol (Marinol) and nabilone (Cesamet), which are also used to treat nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy. 

Which states have legalized medical marijuana?

Medical marijuana is legal in 29 states and the District of Columbia, and a few have legalized recreational marijuana. 

Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/medical-marijuana-faq#1-3

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-marijuana

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-addictive

https://www.healthworkscollective.com/how-medical-marijuana-industry-impacting-big-pharma/

https://www.marijuanabreak.com/medical-marijuana-legal-states

Cinnamon

"Cinnamon, Not Just For Rolls!"

What is cinnamon?

Cinnamon comes from the bark of a small evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka, called Cinnamomum verum. Most of the cinnamon comes from Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and Burma. The farmers shave the outer and inner bark off of the trees and then dry it. When the inner bark is thoroughly dried is when the recognizable cinnamon curled sticks are formed.

Here is a video on how we get cinnamon sticks!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0mSpoth6xU

What is cinnamaldehyde?

            Cinnamaldehyde is an aldehyde that gives cinnamon its flavor and odor. The essential oil of cinnamon bark is about 90% cinnamaldehyde which is found naturally in the barks of certain trees.       

How was it first discovered?

            Cinnamon has been used for centuries in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to ease flu and indigestion. It has calcium, fiber, iron, manganese, and essential oils that helps give it its healing properties.

What was the story of the “secret of thieves?”

Four thieves would rob houses of individuals that were infected with the bubonic plague. The robbers had created a similar concoction of that used in the attire (bird masks) of the physicians visiting their patients. Some accounts say that the thieves used garlic, cloves, and CINNAMON in their masks to help keep them from getting infected with the plague. 

What are some benefits of cinnamon?

Cinnamon is high in antioxidants which protect the body from oxidative damage and is also used to help with digestive inflammation.

 This spice has also been known to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering LDL cholesterol levels (bad cholesterol) and stabilizing blood markers in people with type 2 diabetes. With this form of diabetes, individuals could experience insulin resistance and with the help of cinnamon, insulin resistance can be reduced which allows the hormone to continue its work of transporting sugar in the blood to cells in the body. 

It also interacts with a variety of digestive enzymes to reduce the amount of sugar that goes into the bloodstream, since the carbohydrates are not being broken down as fast. 

Cinnamon mixed with honey has been known to help with acne. With 3 tablespoons of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon, one can apply to the face, which will stop the acne-causing bacteria and restore moisture to the face. The “mask” is left in for about 10 minutes. Remove if a burning sensation begins and also use caution when applying cinnamon to the face. 

What else is cinnamon good for?

Cinnamon has also been found useful for other tasks besides in an individual’s health:

            Bug repellent: For many, cinnamon is used an air freshener for its delicious smell, but for animals, such as ants and moth, it will draw them in the opposite direction. Cinnamaldehyde is also used as a fungicide and has been proven effective on over 40 different crops just by applying it to the roots of the plant. 

            Lip plumper: Individuals have been known to use this spice to enhance the size of their lips. One simply places Vaseline directly onto the lips and pats on the cinnamon making the lips tingly which causes the enhancement.       

            Breath freshener: Chew on a few cinnamon sticks or gargle warm cinnamon water to help with bad breath. 

                        

Use caution when using cinnamon on the body!

Sources: 

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/cinnamaldehyde#section=Top

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/cinnamon-comes-from_n_4963435

http://blog.hannasherbshop.com/2012/03/15/the-history-and-healing-of-thieves-essential-oil/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/cinnamon-beauty-benefits_n_3857058

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon