Cinnamon made my life better this morning–twice. I added a bit to my instant hot chocolate and some to my oatmeal*. A dash of cinnamon is the quickest way to soup up instant cocoa, and of course, brown sugar and cinnamon in your oatmeal is a classic (see Pop Tarts, instant oatmeal, etc.).

According to the Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices, Cinnamon has been in use for more than 2000 years. In ancient Egypt, it was used medicinally, to flavor beverages, and for embalming (yum!). Recent studies have shown that it may lower blood glucose, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in people with Type 2 diabetes. It also reportedly helps flatulence, nausea, and indigestion. Plus it smells marvelous. So there you have it. Cinnamon can make you smell better, fart less, settle your stomach, lower your cholesterol, spice up your drinks, and preserve your dead body. What’s not to love?

*The breakfast of champions is not, as some would have you believe, a bowl of Wheaties with milk. It is a bowl of oatmeal and a cup of hot chocolate.