Cinnamon: The Worlds Favorite Spice

For centuries, cinnamon has been a favorite spice for almost every civilization on earth. From the Chinese 5000 years ago, to the Egyptians, to the Romans, cinnamon has been treasured for it’s taste and medicinal uses. It is still one of the most popular spices today.

Native to Sri Lanka (ancient Ceylon), this spice is taken from many species of the laurel tree. How is cinnamon produced?. It is actually the bark from tender shoots on the tree which is stripped and dried giving it the curled up look we think of as cinnamon sticks. While it could once only be found in Ceylon, cinnamon is now grown in many places including India, Vietnam, Brazil, Madagascar, the West Indies and Egypt to name a few. The true cinnamon comes from the C. zeylanicum tree, but most of the cinnamon that you see in the store today is from the C. Cassia tree.

Cinnamon has an interesting history and has had many uses. The Romans burned it during their funerals, the Egyptians drank it as well as used it in the embalming process and before refrigeration, it was used in meats to mask the smell of decay as well as to retard the growth of bacteria.

Of course, it’s been used for medicinal purposes as well and has been known as a healing herb since it’s mention in Chinese botanical books that date to 2700 BC. Recently, it has been studied for it’s ability to boost brain power as well as reduce blood clotting and it’s healing effects on the heart and colon. New research shows it might also be helpful for people with type 2 diabetes.

Cinnamon has been used for centuries for many healing properties and was a favorite in Medieval times. Some ailments it is said to relive include digestive problems, congestion, menstrual problems, stiff joints and muscles and is said to be a good pain reliever as well. In addition, it has anti inflammatory properties that may help reduce arthritis pain and is said to help cure urinary tract infections as well as fight tooth decay and gum disease. It also has powerful anti microbial properties that can kill bacteria (one of the reasons it was used hundreds of years ago to help preserve meat).

Perhaps cinnamon's most famous use is in cooking. Not only used for baking, this is a versatile spice that can add zing to breakfast, lunch and dinner. Who hasn’t sprinkled cinnamon on their favorite cereal? And what would Mom’s apple pie be like without the cinnamon in it? Cinnamon can be added to soups, stews and sauces to add an interesting appeal In fact, cinnamon is a spice that can add flavor to virtually every dish and you might want to consider it since it will not only give your taste buds a boost, but might give your health one too!

Next Page: History of Cinnamon

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