Cinnamon is a widely used spice across different cultures and cuisines. Its unique flavor profile makes it a versatile seasoning in sweet and savory dishes. This spice is not just used for its unique taste, but it is also prized for its potential health benefits.
What is Ceylon Cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon is also known is “true cinnamon”. This spice is derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree which is native to Sri Lanka and also certain parts of India and other tropical regions. This spice has a delicate, sweet, and mildly spicy flavor.
It is often confused with another variety of cinnamon called Cassia cinnamon which comes from the bark of Cinnamomum cassia tree and is native to China. Cassia cinnamon has a strong, spicy, and slightly bitter flavor and has a more pungent and robust aroma compared to Ceylon cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is generally considered safer than Cassia cinnamon because of the lower coumarin content, which can be harmful when consumed in large amounts.
Key Benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon
Let us glance through the numerous benefits associated with Ceylon cinnamon powder:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Ceylon cinnamon is packed with antioxidants. The antioxidants help in protecting the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and also support in lowering the risk of different health conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. These antioxidants can reduce inflammation and support overall health.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Inflammation is important because it helps the body in responding to the infections and repair the tissue damage, but it becomes an issue when it is chronic in nature and gets directed against the tissues of the body. Ceylon cinnamon is found to have compounds such as cinnamaldehyde which have anti-inflammatory property. This can be effective in reducing inflammation in the body and also lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Ceylon cinnamon has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. This makes it an important spice for people with diabetes or those who are at the risk of developing this condition. It has also been found in slowing down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract.
- Heart Health: Regular consumption of Ceylon cinnamon may be helpful in reducing the risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol levels, high triglycerides, and high blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory properties of Ceylon cinnamon have also been found effective in contributing to heart health.
- Anti-Cancer Properties: Cinnamon has been a topic of study for its potential use in cancer prevention and treatment for long. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of cinnamon can inhibit the growth of the cancer cells and reduce the spread of tumors by inhibiting the formation of blood vessels in tumor.
- Antimicrobial Effects: Ceylon cinnamon is packed with natural antimicrobial properties. One of the main compounds in cinnamon, Cinnamaldehyde, may be effective in fighting against various kinds of infections. This makes it helpful in inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. It can be used to preserve food and as a natural remedy for certain infections.
- Neuroprotective Benefits: Neurodegenerative diseases are the ones which lead of progressive loss of the function or structure of nerve cells. The two most common neurodegenerative diseases are Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Studies highlight that Ceylon cinnamon may have neuroprotective effects which means that it may be helpful in potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Certain compounds have been found in cinnamon that are effective in inhibiting the buildup of tau, a protein in brain, that is one of the important signs of Alzheimer’s.
Including Ceylon cinnamon in your diet can be beneficial to your health in so many ways but the only important thing to keep in mind is to have it in moderation and as a part of balanced diet.
Different Ways to Use Ceylon Cinnamon
Ceylon cinnamon comes in powdered form and also in the form of sticks. Depending upon the requirement of your dish, you can use it to enhance the flavors of your dish as well as the nutritive value.
Here are some ways to include Ceylon cinnamon in your daily routine:
- By adding it to chai lattes
- Sprinkling cinnamon on waffles, pancakes
- Making cinnamon rolls
- Adding it to mulled cider or mulled wine
- Using it in spice rubs
- Using it in curries, soups, stews etc.
Depending upon how you like it, include Ceylon cinnamon in your daily life in different ways to enjoy its potential benefits and fantastic taste.
We, at Spice Profile, showcase pure and organic Ceylon cinnamon powder and cinnamon sticks. Our cinnamon is true cinnamon and therefore, has authentic flavors and aroma. Enjoy the taste of our cinnamon in your food and stay healthy!