Cinnamon

Definition

Cinnamon (Cinnamon cassia) is a common spice used in many dishes throughout the world. Aside from being an ingredient in dishes, this spice has also been used as a remedy in naturally-based medical practices.

Health considerations

Cinnamon has been shown to posess anti-microbial, anti-parasitic, anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging properties. In addition, cinnamon seems to lower blood glucose, serum cholesterol and blood pressure, suggesting beneficial cardiovascular effects.

Keep in mind

There are two types of cinnamon used today. The common cinnamon, Cinnamon cassia, found in virtually all North American dishes that include cinnamon, and the “true” cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, otherwise known as Ceylon cinnamon.

May be found in

Desserts, Eastern Cuisines that originated in warm climates, flavored syrups, flavored beverages, cakes, cookies, breads, coffee-based beverages

References

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Alternative Spellings and Names

Cinnamomum zeylanicum