Cinnamon; Cinnamomum zeylanicum

"... I can be happy the rest of my life with my cinnamon girl..."  neil young

From Scientific Illustration

“When sattva predominates, the light of wisdom shines through every gate of the body” (Bhagavad Gita 14: 11)

Who doesn't love cinnamon? And who knew cinnamon was so beneficial?! According to Ayurvedic tradition, cinnamon is 'sattvic' in nature, meaning it supports the highest good of the mind. Sattvic herbs   stir and harness subtle essences that maintain a focused mind on physical and spiritual levels. This is important because it works to remove obstacles of the mind that inhibit meditation. With a clear mind, one's dharma, purpose or necessary action, is sure. By preparing our mind, we are more equipped to conquer swirling and doubting.

I don't really know if this has anything to do with it's sattvic nature, but cinnamon is also known to lower blood sugar levels- see how excess sugar influences hormones; and in result, all levels of tissue-- In ayurveda, quality of mind is a result of the health of the tissues. Cinnamon works on the plasma, blood. muscles, marrow, and nerve tissues to strengthen circulation. It's warming energy reduces inertia (heavyness, lethargy) while pacifying too intense of movement that causes anxiety. It helps to open up channels in order to absorb other medicines, as well.

Check out Tranquil Sounds  listing to learn more of cinnamon.


Resource:
         The Yoga of Herbs, Dr. David Frawley and Dr. Vasant Lad

REFRIGERATOR CHAI TEA RECIPE:

Put 3 cups of water in a pot and start to bring to a boil. Measure out 2.5 inches fresh ginger, cut thinly (no need to peel); 3 cinnamon sticks, broken up; 2.5 T black peppercorns; 1.5 T whole cardamom seeds; 2.5 t anise seeds, 2.5 t whole coriander seeds; and 1 t whole cloves. Add ingredients to water at any time. When water reaches a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes. Turn off heat. At this point you can add Black Tea if you wish and steep for 5 minutes. After steeping, or right after the 25 minutes if you do not use tea, strain into a gallon sized pitcher. You can add Honey to taste while still hot, if you please. Make sure to stir well. Fill the pitcher the rest of the way with cold water. Store in fridge. Heat as needed for use. Serve with milk or almond milk to taste.

Source for Bulk Herbs