The Health Benefits of Cinnamon: What You Need To Know

What is Cinnamon?

According to Wikipedia, cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. It is the name for several species of trees and the commercial spice products that some of them produce (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/cinnamon).

History of Cinnamon

Cinnamon was important to Egypt as early as 2,000 BC. Back then, cinnamon was considered to be a prize among the ancient nations and as such was for the monarchs or a deity. Apollos Temple in Miletus has an inscription of a gift of cinnamon and cassia. The Egyptians used it as part of their embalming mummies. There are different types of cinnamon for example, Cinnamomum verum is native to India, and Sri Lanka whereas Cinnamomum cassia is native to China. When buying cinnamon you need to make sure which one is the one you want.

Cinnamon is identified as an evergreen tree with oval-shaped leaves, thick bark, and a berry fruit. Bark and leaves are the primary parts of the plant that is used when harvested.

Uses of Cinnamon

You can use cinnamon sticks to flavor drinks (hot chocolate, hot apple cider, or mulled wine), pickling brine, fruit compotes, soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.