Where does cinnamon powder come from?

Cinnamon comes from bark. Specifically, it comes from the inner layer of bark derived from many varieties of evergreen trees that belong to the genus Cinnamomum. In order to produce cinnamon powder, farmers must first shave the outer bark off the trees, and then shave off the inner bark — the cinnamon layer. The bark is then dried, which naturally curls up into quills. The quills are either cut up into sticks or crushed into a fine powder.

What are the various health benefits of cinnamon?

Cinnamon’s use for medicinal purposes date back to ancient times. In the past, it was used to help treat many medical conditions, including:

  • respiratory illness
  • gynaecological issues
  • digestive problems

In more recent time, it has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory agent, antioxidant, antimicrobial, immunity-booster, protector against heart disease, as well as improving cognitive function.

Studies have shown that cinnamon (in the form of pure bark, essential oils, ground/ powdered spice, or from extract) has the following health benefits:

  • Reduces inflammation– The antioxidants in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, brain function decline, and more. There are over seven kinds of flavonoid compounds alone in cinnamon, which are highly effective at fighting dangerous inflammation levels throughout the body.
  • Protects heart health – cinnamon has been shown to reduce several risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease, including lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as blood pressure.
  • Reduces risk of diabetes – cinnamon helps lower blood sugar levels and may assist in improving your body’s sensitivity to the hormone insulin, which is the vital hormone to help keep your blood sugar levels balanced.
  • Assists brain function & protects against cognitive decline – the high antioxidant properties in cinnamon can help defend the brain against developing neurological decline such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease by activating neuro-protective proteins that protect brain cells from damage and mutation.
  • Fights infections – the immune-boosting abilities of cinnamon are found in cinnamon’s essential oils, which make it a natural anti-microbial, antibiotic, anti-fungal, and anti-viral agent.
  • Reduces allergy response – cinnamon contains compounds that are helpful in fighting common allergy symptoms as it reduces inflammation and fights histamine reactions in the body.
  • May prevent candida overgrowth – cinnamon’s powerful anti-fungal properties may be effective in hindering Candida overgrowth in the digestive tract. It does this by lowering the amounts of Candida Albicans, which is the yeast that causes Candida.

Can cinnamon improve insulin sensitivity?

Yes. Naturally-occurring compounds that have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity include chromium and polyphenols that are found in cinnamon.

How much of the spice would we have to include to feel the benefits?

Currently, there hasn’t been enough scientific research done to determine how much cinnamon is needed to help various conditions. However, one study has shown that a daily intake of 3-6 grams of cinnamon, which is equivalent to 1-2 teaspoons, can decrease blood glucose levels by 18-29% in people with type 2 diabetes.

Ways to incorporate cinnamon

  • Great addition to smoothies
  • Dust almonds with cinnamon powder and roast in the oven
  • Mix cinnamon powder through natural or Greek yoghurt as a snack
  • Add to stewed apples to be used on roast pork or in bircher muesli
  • Add to marinades for meat to give a Middle Eastern flavour e.g. roast lamb
  • Add whole quills/sticks to casseroles
  • Add whole quills/sticks to a pot of tea
  • Add it to pumpkin soup