Cinnamon Bark — The Warming Wonder from Cinnamomum spp. (Lauraceae)
Cinnamon: Warming, Healing, and Delicious
Cinnamon comes in various varieties and is a staple in many kitchens.
Cinnamomum zeylanicum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, is the dried bark from trees that originate in Sri Lanka and Southern India. This is the strongest type of cinnamon. It is softer and easier to grind, with a light brown color. It tends to be more expensive than other varieties.
Cassia, or Chinese cinnamon, originated in China. This type is most often found in supermarkets. It is darker in color and less expensive.
Both types are useful in the kitchen and have medicinal benefits.
Cinnamon is often used to flavor baked goods and tea, but it also has many health benefits in herbal preparations. It is both warming and drying.
Health Actions: Analgesic, circulatory stimulant, digestive aid, and expectorant.
Uses
Warming and stimulating cinnamon enhances circulation and supports digestion. It calms gas, eases indigestion, and helps to digest fat. It can boost metabolism and help control appetite.
Cinnamon is beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. It appears to help stabilize blood sugar and lower cholesterol.
It is used for its astringent and drying properties and is an excellent expectorant for congested chests. Cinnamon is also an effective anti-inflammatory and can support cognitive function and memory.
Besides being warming and stimulating, cinnamon also nourishes and tones the body.
In Food
Cinnamon is a wonderful herb to include in your diet regularly due to its nutritive properties.
Culinary uses include adding it to teas and warm beverages like chai tea. In savory dishes, it can be added to soups and stews and is also used on vegetables such as pumpkin fritters and in desserts like South African pannekoek (crepes).
Tinctures and honey can also be infused with cinnamon.
In Beauty Products
Cinnamon is used for lightening, improving acne, and anti-aging benefits.
It is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, making it useful in handmade soaps where it can add a light brown color and help reduce stress. It is great for rough, dry skin as it is rich in antioxidants.
Safety
Cinnamon is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation. It should not be used if you have gastrointestinal ulcers or compromised liver function. Avoid cinnamon if you have a fever since it is a warming herb.
Some people might experience allergies on the skin or mucous membranes.
Cinnamon should never be consumed in high quantities.
Dose:
- Ground bark: 2 to 4 grams per day
- Tincture: 1:5, grams per milliliter
- Soap: 2 milliliters per kilogram of soap
Some Additional Interesting Cinnamon Facts
- Cinnamon comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree.
- The cinnamon tree can grow up to 60 feet tall.
- Cinnamon sticks are also called quills.
- Cinnamon is high in fiber and calcium, which helps improve colon health.
- It also contains minerals such as iron and magnesium.
- Cinnamon complements both sweet and savory dishes and drinks.
- It is often used in traditional medicine.
- Cinnamon does not have a sweet taste on its own but it enhances the sweetness of other ingredients.
- It acts as a natural preservative.
- Smelling the wonderful aroma of cinnamon can boost brain activity.
Cinnamon is a versatile, warming herb that brings flavor and comfort while supporting overall wellness. Discover new ways to enjoy it in your kitchen, herbal remedies, and self-care routines this winter.