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Cinnamon Chips Origin and Health Benefits

By: Susannah Singer It would be surprising if anyone reading this has not tasted cinnamon sometime in his life. Cinnamon is the brown bark of the cinnamon tree, that, when dried, rolls into a tubular form known as a quill. Cinnamon is available in either its whole quill form (cinnamon sticks) or as ground powder.

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 rich history dating back 4800 years to China. The name is derived from the Greek word kinnamomon. It is mentioned in the history of Israel for it was used in the tabernacle in their anointing oil (Exodus 30:23). It was also used because if its fragrance (Proverbs 7:17; Song of Solomon 4:14; Revelation 18:13). Cinnamaldehyde is the compound in cinnamon that gives it the customary scent and flavor.

The Egyptians used cinnamon in medicine and drinks. With the Romans, they also used it in embalming. By the middle ages, cinnamon was so expensive that only the rich could afford it. What spices you possessed would determine your social status.

Cinnamon has health benefits as well as its use as a spice. For example, studies indicate that 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon each day may lower LDL cholesterol. It is also used to stop some types of yeast infections. Cinnamon has aided those with Type 2 diabetes by helping their bodies regulate blood sugar.

Cinnamon can reduce arthritic pain in just one week, according to a study at Copenhagen University. Cinnamon is a natural food preservative. Food containing cinnamon spoils at a slower rate because it inhibits the growth of certain bacteria. Cinnamon also reduces heart problems because of its anti-clotting factor. Lymphoma and leukemia cancer cells stopped spreading in the presence of cinnamon, according to a study in Maryland at the Department of Agriculture.

Cinnamon is a good source of iron, fiber, calcium, and manganese. Calcium and fiber together help remove bile and thus help prevent colon cancer and damage to colon cells. The fiber relieves constipation and problems caused by irritable bowel syndrome. Cinnamon even helps our brains reason and memory, and helps to fight E. coli bacteria found in some unpasteurized juices.

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.

Cinnamon has also been valued through history for its warming qualities. This use can be traced back to traditional Chinese medicine. It can provide relief at the onset of a cold or flu by giving the patient tea with cinnamon and fresh ginger.

These are some ways to serve cinnamon shared by others. Adding ground cinnamon to black beans to be used in burritos or nachos will give them a uniquely delicious taste. Enjoy cinnamon toast with a healthy twist. Add ground cinnamon when preparing curries. Healthy saute lamb with eggplant, raisins and cinnamon sticks to create a Middle Eastern inspired meal. Drizzle flax seed oil onto whole wheat toast and then sprinkle with cinnamon and honey. Simmer cinnamon sticks with soymilk and honey for a deliciously warming beverage.

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.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Cinnamon has many more advantages than is possible to cover in an article of this size. You can learn more about the advantages and differences of cinnamon chips and cinnamon sticks at www.morethanalive.com/Bulk_Herbs

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