Cinnamon Improves Cognitive Function

Written by Kevin Flatt

Recent research shows that cinnamon does more than just ward off diabetes and heart disease - it also makes you smarter. That’s what a recent study determined after administering cinnamon, both orally and nasally, to adults. Both “real” cinnamon and cinnamon flavored items, such as gum, were effective in enhancing the participants’ cognitive function. (Society for the Study of Investigative Behavior (abstract), 2/8/05).

Phillip Zoladz, of Belmont, Ohio and 2004 Wheeling Jesuit University graduate is turning heads in the scientific world with his innovative research that supports what scientists have long hypothesized: the sense of smell can have a significant impact on human behavior and functioning. His study revealed that cinnamon’s odor can improve memory and visual-motor response speed, which means the spice has the potential to benefit people with a range of problems. (Wheeling Jesuit University).

References

Zoladz P, Raudenbush B, Lilley S, "Impact of the chemical senses on augmenting memory, attention, reaction time, problem solving, and response variability: The differential role of retronasal versus orthonasal odorant administration," Society for the Study of Investigative Behavior (abstract),