Page 63 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

the chance of getting it in your eyes inadvertently. Getting this salve in the eyes or mucus
membranes can cause irritation.

Cayenne Tea

Cayenne can be ingested in tea to help combat pain and inflammation. To create tea using
cayenne, measure one teaspoon of cayenne powder and put it in a teacup. Pour hot water
into the teacup and stir everything together thoroughly until the cayenne is fully absorbed
into the water. Adding some lemon juice can help make this tea tasty and add to its
therapeutic benefits. Finally, add raw honey to taste. Drink this daily for help reducing
bodily inflammation and pain.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another spice with amazing medicinal properties. There are several types of
cinnamon, but the best type for medicinal use is Ceylon cinnamon. Most types of
cinnamon available are cassia cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon is a lower quality cinnamon
that contains higher amounts of a compound called coumarin. Coumarin has been linked
to liver and kidney damage. Ceylon cinnamon contains very tiny amounts of this
compared to cassia.

Ceylon cinnamon contains a constituent
called cinnamaldehyde. This beneficial
constituent helps to reduce inflammation
in the body by promoting blockage of
arachidonic acid. This acid is linked to
inflammation and can be the result of
consuming too many omega 6 fatty acids.
While omega 3 fatty acids are great for
reducing inflammation, omega 6 fatty
acids (found in unhealthy foods and oils
like corn and canola oil) can have the
opposite effect.

Not only does cinnamon help reduce Bertrand THIRY, Own Work, 1996, CC. 3.0
inflammation due to cinnamaldehyde,
but it has also been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of a
substance in the body called cyclooxygenase-2. Cyclooxygenase-2 is an enzyme that is
responsible for creating inflammation.

Anti-Inflammatory “Shot”
Adding cinnamon to a variety of recipes and teas helps ensure you are getting this
beneficial spice in your diet. You can also create a daily health drink using cinnamon,
along with apple cider vinegar, lemon, and raw honey. All of these ingredients can help

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