Cinnamon is the bark of a tree and comes chiefly from Ceylon. It
contains astringent matter and an essential oil which is said to
exert a deadly effect upon disease-producing germs. Thus it makes
an excellent fever drink for influenza, catarrh of the bowels, and
consumption. It has also been known to cure cancer. It is inadvisable
to use the ground cinnamon as supplied by grocers, as this is
frequently adulterated. The cinnamon sticks, or “whole” cinnamon,
should be purchased always.
Cinnamon Water.
Take 1 ounce of cinnamon sticks, bruise, or coarsely powder, pour upon
them a pint of boiling water, allow to stand until drawn, strain, then
drink a small teacupful hot, several times a day.
Cinnamon Decoction.
This is made like the water, with the exception that the water and
cinnamon should be boiled together for 15 minutes before straining.
Strong Cinnamon Decoction.
The very strong decoction, used in cases of cancer, is made by boiling
1 lb. of the best cinnamon sticks with 2 pints of water (preferably
_in vacuo_), and allowing it to simmer down to 25 ozs. The resulting
decoction should be poured off without straining and 10 per cent. of
glycerine added to preserve and sweeten. Of this decoction about ½ pint
should be taken as the daily dose.