Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “true” cinnamon with its botanical name as Cinnamomum verum, is made by cutting the stems of the cinnamomum tree. The inner bark is then extracted and the woody parts removed from it. When it dries, it forms strips that curl into rolls, called cinnamon sticks. The sticks can be ground to form cinnamon powder. Cinnamon sticks from this species are often referred to as ceylon or “soft” cinnamon sticks, and have different physical characteristics, as well as a milder, sweeter flavor than common cinnamon.
According to researchers, out of twenty-six of the most popular herbs and medicinal spices in the world, cinnamon actually ranks #1 in terms of its protective antioxidant levels. In a study that compared the antioxidant activity of 26 spices, cinnamon was deemed the winner and proved to be higher in antioxidants than other powerful herbs and spices including garlic, thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
The health benefits of cinnamon are attributed to the type of antioxidants called polyphenols, phenolic acid, and flavonoids. These are similar antioxidants to those that can be found in other “superfoods” including berries, red wine, and dark chocolate. These compounds work to fight oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to disease formation when uncontrolled, especially as someone ages.Ceylon sticks taste spicy, sweet, and delicate with much more gourmet flair than that of common or cassia cinnamon.
Some Fun Facts about CEYLON CINNAMON
- Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols
- The antioxidants in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help lower the risk of disease.
- Cinnamon can improve some key risk factors for heart disease, including cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure.
- Cinnamon has been shown to significantly increase sensitivity to the hormone insulin.
- Cinnamon has been shown to both reduce fasting blood sugar levels, having a potent anti-diabetic effect at 1 to 6 grams per day.
- Cinnamaldehyde has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which may reduce infections and help fight tooth decay and bad breath.
- Cinnamon helps fight allergies
- Cinnamon can be used as a natural food preservative
- Cinnamon protects dental health and helps freshen breath naturally
Nutrition Benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon
One tablespoon of ground ceylon cinnamon stick contains:
- 19 calories
- 0 grams of fat, sugar, or protein
- 4 grams of fiber
- 68% manganese
- 8% calcium
- 4% iron
- 3% Vitamin K