Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.)
Cinnamon’s Energetics are warming and drying. That’s what makes this spice great for the winter holidays.
It’s spicy, sweet and warming properties are what warm us up inside and make everything we add it to so yummy.
Do you remember cinnamon and sugar toast as a kid?
Or cinnamon and sugar pie dough. This was always a special treat. Mom would used the left over dough from something else she had made, sprinkle it with cinnamon & sugar and bake it for a little while. I always looked forward to that.
It’s the perfect winter spice. We use it in on all kinds of sweet warm desserts and winter squash. It pairs well with lots of the other warming spices like ginger, nutmeg and coriander.
It’s properties also include carminative, aromatic, stimulant and astringent. It’s a demulcent, anti-oxidant, and antimicrobial. All these wonderful actions and properties can help us in a variety of ways.
Cinnamon Historically
Cinnamon’s history goes back 1,000s of years. First written about in Chinese texts over 4,700 yrs ago, it was, at one time, valued more than it’s own weight in silver.
The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon to flavor their food and in the embalming processes.
And for centuries the Arabs controlled the cinnamon trade with fantastical stories about where it came from in order to enrich the magic surrounding it and to keep the prices high.
There’s more than one
There’s actually 100s of different types of cinnamon. But there are only 2 commonly used in the US.
Cassia Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia)
This is native to Indonesia & grows in tropical climates. It’s also known as Chinese cinnamon and is generally the least expensive of the two I have here.
It’s more spicy & pungent, and used by chefs in more savory dishes.
Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum syn. C. Zeylanicum)
Also called the “true cinnamon”, Ceylon is native to Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon). It’s a sweeter & lighter flavor and used more in dessert-type dishes.
The major difference in the two
Cassia cinnamon has higher amounts of coumarins in it. That’s a constituent that can thin the blood. Regularly taking or ingesting a teaspoon or more of cassia cinnamon powder per day could pose a health risk to those folks with liver problems or those folks taking blood thinners. That risk would extend to folks having surgery an a week or two.
If you’re one of those folks who adds cinnamon to your coffee (which I’ve done occasionally, it’s really good), it’s better to use Ceylon cinnamon.
Digestion
The stimulating quality is why it’s a warming spice. Because the stimulation increases circulation it helps move digestion along, which in turn helps with indigestion. This quality is good for gas and cramping too.
It makes a great spiced milk and is a nutritive drink. It warms the body, supports digestion & can help tone the lower digestive tract.
Cinnamon’s affinity
Cinnamon has an affinity for the mouth and teeth and cinnamon oil can help relieve toothaches.
Be sure to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil before applying it. Otherwise, it could burn you.
I use powdered cinnamon in a tooth powder I’ve used to brush my teeth for several years now. With really great results too, according to my dentist.
It’s astringent & antimicrobial properties are great for tightening and toning spongy gums and helping to stop any viral pathogens that you may have in your mouth.
For Colds & Flu
The antimicrobial properties help to fight off pathogens helping to stop colds & flu. While it may not stop you from getting sick it can lighten the load so your body doesn’t have to work so hard to fight off an illness that’s trying to start.
The warming properties cinnamon has is great for warming you up from a shivery chill or fever. With the antioxidant properties helping to fight off inflammation that can lower your immune system, and cause joint and muscle pain.
And that stimulating action is really great for those folks who have a tendency toward cold hands and feet too.
And finally for pain relief
Cinnamon has been used to relieve menstrual cramps. What a wonderfully tasty way to get rid of those dreaded cramps.
It works best when used preventatively. Drink a basic chai tea a few days before cramping is expected. This can help stop them before they start.
Next time you sprinkle a bit of cinnamon and sugar over your buttered toast or oatmeal, think about all the different ways this simple little spice can help you.
Think about it’s rich history and the different ways it can be used. From spiced teas, to baked goods to tooth powder.
And then wonder how you can use it more and more in your daily life to enjoy the effects it has to offer you.
How do you use cinnamon? Do you have a special drink or treat you enjoy most?
