When the chill of winter or a damp evening leaves you feeling physically cold, the solution often lies in “warming” botanicals that do more than just provide a hot temperature. Cinnamon water is a traditional remedy prized across many cultures for its ability to “warm the interior” and stimulate the body’s natural heat production.

In traditional practices like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, cinnamon is classified as a pungent, heating herb. It is specifically used to dispel “internal cold” and invigorate the flow of energy and blood.

The Benefits of Warm Cinnamon Water
Cinnamon contains a high concentration of cinnamaldehyde, the essential oil responsible for its distinct aroma and its potent effect on our internal thermoregulation.

Improved Circulation: Cinnamon acts as a mild vasodilator, meaning it helps to expand blood vessels. This encourages blood to flow more freely to your extremities—your hands and feet—which are often the first to feel the cold.

Metabolic Thermogenesis: Drinking cinnamon water can gently stimulate your metabolism. This process, known as thermogenesis, is how your body burns calories to generate internal heat.

Digestive Warmth: For those who feel a “cold” or sluggish stomach after eating, cinnamon kindles the digestive fire (Agni), helping to break down food and reduce the shivering or discomfort associated with poor digestion.

Blood Sugar Stability: By helping to keep blood sugar levels steady, cinnamon prevents the energy “crashes” that can leave you feeling fatigued and more susceptible to the cold.

Traditional Warming Cinnamon Infusion
This recipe focuses on a slow steep to ensure the most potent warming oils are extracted from the bark.

Ingredients

1 organic cinnamon stick (Ceylon cinnamon is often preferred for its delicate, sweet profile)

2 cups of filtered water

Optional: A pinch of black pepper (to further activate the warming properties) or a teaspoon of raw honey.

Instructions

Prepare the Stick: Break the cinnamon stick into two or three pieces. This increases the surface area, allowing the water to reach the inner layers of the bark where the oils are most concentrated.

Boil and Simmer: Place the water and cinnamon pieces in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low.

The Slow Steep: Let the mixture simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. You will notice the water turning a deep, rich amber color.

Add Final Touches: If you are using black pepper for extra warmth, add it in the final minute of simmering.

Serve: Remove the cinnamon pieces (which can actually be dried and reused once more) and pour the warm liquid into a mug. Add honey only after the water has cooled slightly to preserve its natural enzymes.

A Thoughtful Ritual for Cold Days
The best time to enjoy this infusion is when you first come indoors from the cold or about 30 minutes before bed. Because cinnamon helps stabilize overnight blood sugar, it can promote a deeper, warmer sleep during the winter months.