It’s That Time of Year…

The air is getting crisper, the leaves are turning those gorgeous golds, reds and ambers, and autumn has officially arrived. With the seasonal shift comes not just cosy sweaters and mugs of something warm, but also the perfect opportunity to celebrate the spices and flavours that shine at this time of year—many of which are incredibly supportive for our health.

Let’s start with one of the most loved: cinnamon.

I personally use cinnamon a lot and adore the flavour, but it’s so much more than a tasty addition to porridge or a latte. Cinnamon has been used for centuries across the world in traditional medicine—from China and India to Persia.

In Ayurvedic practice, it’s commonly used to help create and maintain balance in the mind and body throughout the year by supporting the doshas, Dhatus, Malas and Agni.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon

Modern research is now backing up what traditional systems have known for a long time. Cinnamon has been shown to support the body in several powerful ways:

• Blood glucose regulation – helpful for steady energy and metabolic health

• Cardiovascular support – studies suggest it may help lower cholesterol and triglycerides

• Anti-inflammatory properties – ideal for reducing chronic inflammation in the body

• Digestive aid – soothing and supportive for the gut

Whatever life stage you’re in, cinnamon can be a valuable inclusion in your diet year-round, not just in autumn and winter.

For those of us in peri- to post-menopause or navigating other hormonal imbalances, cinnamon may be particularly helpful. By reducing inflammation, it may indirectly ease symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, pain and gut irritation.

A Quick Note on Safety

If you’re on any regular medications, it’s always wise to check with your pharmacist to make sure cinnamon won’t interact with them—especially if you plan to use it consistently.

Simple Ways to Enjoy Cinnamon Daily

There are so many easy and delicious ways to incorporate cinnamon into your routine:

• Add it to teas or smoothies

• Warm it into milk with turmeric and ginger (traditional chai latte or “golden milk”)

• Sprinkle it over oats, yogurt or fruit

• Use it in baking or roasted autumn recipes

Keep an eye out—some cosy, seasonal recipes featuring cinnamon and other autumnal spices are coming soon!