Ceylon cinnamon, often hailed as "true cinnamon," is a spice revered for its delicate flavor, captivating aroma, and impressive health benefits.
Ceylon Cinnamon: A Spice of Royal Lineage:
Ceylon cinnamon, scientifically known as Cinnamomum verum, Verum means true or genuine. Cinnamon was formerly known as Cinnamomum zeylanicum which basically means cinnamon from Ceylon. This differentiation is important as I will explain latter on due to the prevalence of Cassia cinnamon.
Understanding the difference between Ceylon cinnamon and cassia is crucial for reaping the full benefits of this spice. Cassia, or Cinnamomum cassia, is a less expensive and more readily available alternative. However, it possesses a stronger, more pungent flavor and a thicker, coarser bark. Here's a quick comparison:
Origin: Ceylon cinnamon originates from Sri Lanka, while cassia primarily comes from China and Indonesia.
Bark: Ceylon cinnamon has thin, delicate layers of bark, forming a fragile quill. Cassia bark is thicker and coarser.
Flavor: Ceylon cinnamon offers a sweet, delicate flavor with citrusy notes. Cassia has a stronger, more pungent, and slightly bitter taste.
Coumarin Content: Ceylon cinnamon contains negligible amounts of coumarin, a compound that can be harmful in high doses. Cassia has significantly higher coumarin levels.
Health Attributes of Ceylon Cinnamon:
Ceylon cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and possesses numerous health-promoting properties.
Cinnamon in the Bible:
Cinnamon is mentioned several times in the Bible, highlighting its historical significance and value. It is of note that Cassia is also mention and therefore the ancients knew well the difference between these 2 spices.
These biblical references underscore the historical significance of cinnamon and cassia and its association with wealth, prestige, and sacred rituals.
It is also of interest that the words for cinnamon and cassia in English are both directly from Hebrew. The Greek borrow this word originally from the Hebrew word קנמון (qinnāmōn).
The name "cassia", first recorded in late Old English from Latin, ultimately derives from the Hebrew word קציעה qetsīʿāh, a form of the verb קצע qātsaʿ, "to strip off bark".
Incorporating Ceylon Cinnamon into Your Diet:
Adding Ceylon cinnamon to your diet is easy and delicious.
Sprinkle it on: Sprinkle it on oatmeal, yogurt, or fruit for a flavorful boost.
Add it to beverages: Add it to tea, coffee, or smoothies for a warm and aromatic touch.
Use it in baking: Incorporate it into cakes, cookies, and other baked goods for a sweet and spicy flavor.
Add it to savory dishes: Use it in curries, stews, and marinades for a unique depth of flavor.
Choosing and Storing Ceylon Cinnamon:
When purchasing Ceylon cinnamon, look for quills that are thin, delicate, and light brown in color. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness and aroma.
A Spice of Timeless Value:
Ceylon cinnamon is more than just a spice; it's a treasure trove of health benefits and a symbol of historical significance. By choosing true cinnamon, you're not only enhancing the flavor of your dishes but also embracing a spice that has been cherished for centuries.
Cinnamon derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree. Its delicate, thin layers of bark are meticulously peeled and sun-dried, resulting in the characteristic quill shape. This meticulous process contributes to its subtle, sweet flavor and light, citrusy aroma.
Distinguishing Ceylon Cinnamon from Cassia:
Understanding the difference between Ceylon cinnamon and cassia is crucial for reaping the full benefits of this spice. Cassia, or Cinnamomum cassia, is a less expensive and more readily available alternative. However, it possesses a stronger, more pungent flavor and a thicker, coarser bark. Here's a quick comparison:
Bark: Ceylon cinnamon has thin, delicate layers of bark, forming a fragile quill. Cassia bark is thicker and coarser.
Flavor: Ceylon cinnamon offers a sweet, delicate flavor with citrusy notes. Cassia has a stronger, more pungent, and slightly bitter taste.
Coumarin Content: Ceylon cinnamon contains negligible amounts of coumarin, a compound that can be harmful in high doses. Cassia has significantly higher coumarin levels.
Cassia is actual several different trees from the same family Lauraceae:
- C. burmanni (Indonesian cinnamon or Padang cassia)
- C. cassia (Chinese cinnamon or Chinese cassia), by far the most common
- C. loureiroi (Saigon cinnamon or Vietnamese cassia)
- and the less common C. citriodorum (Malabar cinnamon)
Health Attributes of Ceylon Cinnamon:
Ceylon cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and possesses numerous health-promoting properties.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Studies suggest that Ceylon cinnamon can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: It's rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from free radical damage and reduce inflammation.
- Heart Health: Ceylon cinnamon may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions.
- Brain Function: Some studies indicate that cinnamon may improve cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
- Antimicrobial Effects: Cinnamon possesses antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria and fungi.
Cinnamon in the Bible:
Cinnamon is mentioned several times in the Bible, highlighting its historical significance and value. It is of note that Cassia is also mention and therefore the ancients knew well the difference between these 2 spices.
- Exodus 30:23: God instructs Moses to use "sweet cinnamon" as an ingredient in the holy anointing oil, emphasizing its preciousness and sacred use.
- Exodus 30:24: God here instructs Moses to use Cassia in the anointing oil, the word in Hebrew is kiddâh and exact equivalent of the Greek and Latin cassia. The Hebrew root word is to "peel".
- Psalms 45:8:
- Proverbs 7:17: Cinnamon is mentioned as a fragrance used to perfume beds, indicating its association with luxury and indulgence.
- Song of Solomon 4:14: Cinnamon is listed among other precious spices, highlighting its aromatic and sensual qualities.
- Ezekiel 27:19 : Speaking about Cassia as being one of the goods traders would trade.
- Revelation 18:13: Cinnamon is mentioned as a commodity traded in the markets of Babylon, showing its economic importance in ancient times.
These biblical references underscore the historical significance of cinnamon and cassia and its association with wealth, prestige, and sacred rituals.
It is also of interest that the words for cinnamon and cassia in English are both directly from Hebrew. The Greek borrow this word originally from the Hebrew word קנמון (qinnāmōn).
The name "cassia", first recorded in late Old English from Latin, ultimately derives from the Hebrew word קציעה qetsīʿāh, a form of the verb קצע qātsaʿ, "to strip off bark".
Incorporating Ceylon Cinnamon into Your Diet:
Adding Ceylon cinnamon to your diet is easy and delicious.
Sprinkle it on: Sprinkle it on oatmeal, yogurt, or fruit for a flavorful boost.
Add it to beverages: Add it to tea, coffee, or smoothies for a warm and aromatic touch.
Use it in baking: Incorporate it into cakes, cookies, and other baked goods for a sweet and spicy flavor.
Add it to savory dishes: Use it in curries, stews, and marinades for a unique depth of flavor.
Choosing and Storing Ceylon Cinnamon:
When purchasing Ceylon cinnamon, look for quills that are thin, delicate, and light brown in color. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness and aroma.
A Spice of Timeless Value:
Ceylon cinnamon is more than just a spice; it's a treasure trove of health benefits and a symbol of historical significance. By choosing true cinnamon, you're not only enhancing the flavor of your dishes but also embracing a spice that has been cherished for centuries.
Some great Cinnamon products on Amazon:
- Ceylon Cinnamon shop: This company has really great products, consistent quality and priced ok.
- Cinnamon powder: There are many such powder but I have found this one to be superior and at the right price.
- Ceylon cinnamon herbal tea: this is just such an awesome tea. You really understand why it is called sweet cinnamon in the Bible because even without sugar there is a sweet, pungent taste to this tea. Highly recommended.
- Black tea with cinnamon: This is a really good black Ceylon tea and with added Ceylon cinnamon it is a treat. You can take with milk or without. I highly recommend Ahmad teas here is their store.
- Cinnamon sticks/quills: whole sticks which are awesome for mulled wine, decoration and cooking.
- Cinnamon gummies: This product is lovely and uses Ceylon cinnamon. They taste good unlike some other similar products and it provides great supplements for your better health.
Comments
Post a Comment