Spice Spotlight: Cinnamon!

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم


Backstory of Cinnamon


There are over 250 identified species of cinnamon, but only two commonly used varieties. The most popular and cheaper kind is called Cassia (Chinese cinnamon) which is grown in Southern China. Its more expensive and rarer relative grown in Thailand and Sri Lanka is Ceylon. With both having similar health benefits, Ceylon is said to have the upper hand due to the lack of a compound called coumarin. This compound has been linked to liver issues when consumed in large doses. Consequently, it is recommended for one who wishes to supplement with cinnamon to do so with Ceylon. [1]


Some of its Health benefits


Whether using Cassia or Ceylon, Cinnamon contains effective healing properties such as immune stimulation and anti-inflammation. One of the most popular is controlling blood sugar. In one study, patients who were utilizing cinnamon (cassia) have shown to have a reduction in fasting blood glucose levels. [2]

It also contains amazing antibacterial properties. So much so that it is even being considered to replace many preservatives in both food and cosmetics. [3] This idea isn't new as it is was used around the time of the Middle Ages as a way to preserve meat. You can look even further back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians and see that Cinnamon was utilized as part of their embalming process. In health, the antibacterial benefit is a great remedy against stomach flu, E.coli and staph infections.[4]


How to use daily

Cinnamon is potent so no more than 1/2 a teaspoon is needed daily to receive benefits.[5] It's a great ingredient to add to homemade toothpaste mixtures as it freshens the breath and kills bacteria. With its pungent flavor, it can easily be added on to fruit and other dishes to enhance flavor and to reduce adding sugar.

Here are two of my favorite recipes featuring cinnamon:

1.Ginger Cinnamon Tea

SERVES: 6
1⁄2 cup fresh ginger, thinly sliced
6 cups water
2 cinnamon sticks
2 tablespoons honey or Agave
lemon wedge (to garnish)

DIRECTIONS
In a saucepan, simmer ginger, honey, cinnamon, and water for 20 minutes. Simmer longer for stronger tea.
Add honey or Agave and strain tea through a sieve.


2. Homemade Applesauce

 SERVES: 8
3 lbs apples
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch of All Spice
1 1⁄2 cups water
1 1⁄2 teaspoons of lemon Juice
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
Agave nectar or honey to sweeten as desired
DIRECTIONS
Peel and core apples and cut apples into approximately1-inch cubes.
Add all ingredients to pot except sweetener, and turn the heat on high. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the apples have softened significantly.
Stir frequently, making sure that the apples are not sticking to the bottom of the pot. Add more water if necessary and add sweetener.
Mash with a potato masher or use a food mill for a smoother consistency. Serve warm or at room temperature.



Disclaimers

  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.


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