Cinnamon Chips Origin and Health Benefits
By Susannah Singer | July 11, 2008
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Cinnamon is one of the most universally known spices available today. It appears in both powder and in sticks. The cinnamon stick is actually the brown bark which is dried and rolled into what is also known as a quill.
Most of the cinnamon sold in the U.S. today is really cassia or Chinese cinnamon. Real cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka and is called Ceylon cinnamon since Sri Lanka was formerly known as Ceylon. Today Sri Lanka exports between 10,000 and 12,000 metric tons of cinnamon annually.
Cinnamon has a long history dating back to 2800 BC in China. The name comes from the Greek word kinnamomon. It is mentioned four times in the Bible, famous for its fragrance. The priests used it in their holy anointing oil (Exodus 30:23). It was also used simply because of its fragrant smell (Proverbs 7:17; Song of Solomon 4:14; Revelation 18:13). Cinnamon gets its flavor and scent from cinnamaldehyde, a compound in the bark.
In Ancient Egypt and Rome, cinnamon was used in the embalming process. The Egyptians also used cinnamon medicinally and as a flavoring in food and beverages. In the Middle Ages, cinnamon was only affordable by the elite of society. A person’s social rank could be determined by the number of spices he owned.
Though most commonly used as a spice, cinnamon has many health benefits. Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol. Other studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to stop some types of yeast infections.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the spread of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells. Cinnamon also has an anti-clotting effect on the blood. At Copenhagen University, researchers found that in just one week cinnamon was effective in reducing arthritic pain. It also inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.
Use of cinnamon can even help you think and memorize. It also fights E. coli bacteria found in unpasteurized juices. Cinnamon is a great source of calcium, iron, fiber, and manganese. The calcium and fiber combined help remove bile and this prevents damage to the colon and reduces colon cancer. The fiber also relieves irritable bowel syndrome and constipation.
Cinnamon has been used to treat yeast infections of the mouth and vagina, stomach ulcers, and head lice. Components of the essential oils are responsible for these healing qualities. Cinnamon also fights bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
In addition to the active components in its essential oils and its nutrient composition, cinnamon has also been valued in energy-based medical systems, such as traditional Chinese medicine, for its warming qualities. Cinnamon has also been used to provide relief when faced with the onset of a cold or flu, especially when mixed in a tea with some fresh ginger.
Here are some recipes for enjoying cinnamon in a variety of ways. Adding ground cinnamon to black beans to be used in burritos or nachos will give them a uniquely delicious taste. Simmer cinnamon sticks with soymilk and honey for a deliciously warming beverage. Healthy saute lamb with eggplant, raisins and cinnamon sticks to create a Middle Eastern inspired meal. Add ground cinnamon when preparing curries. Drizzle flax seed oil onto whole wheat toast and then sprinkle with cinnamon and honey. Enjoy cinnamon toast with a healthy twist.
Cinnamon is not a cure all. It should not be used in place of medications. Neither overdose on cinnamon, for too much could be toxic. To keep cinnamon sticks and powder fresh, store in a dark, cool, dry place in a tightly closed glass container. The sweet smell will tell you it is still fresh.
Topics: Nutrition |
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