Cinnamon Spice

History:
Cinnamon is a fragrant spice used in both powdered and stick forms in cooking and medicinal applications. It is also considered an aromatic herbal remedy. The cinnamon tree, which grows primarily in India, belongs to the class of dicotyledons and is evergreen. Native to Sri Lanka, the best cinnamon has regular, yellowish-white flowers, and its brown bark is what we know as cinnamon.

The cinnamon tree is a small tree, 5 to 7 meters tall, with a pleasant aroma emanating from all its parts. Its flowers appear between February and early April. The leaves are green, and the flowers are white. Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka and southern India, and the bark of the tree is used as a spice.

Cinnamon has a warm and dry nature, which holds significant importance in traditional Iranian medicine. This spice can offer numerous benefits for individuals with a cold and moist temperament.

• Cinnamomum verum or true cinnamon, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, has a soft and delicate inner bark.
• Stick cinnamon: Available in various brands, the most famous being Gol Sorkh. It resembles broken wood and lacks uniformity. This type makes up 80% of the market.
• Cigarette cinnamon: Found in both Ceylon and Cassia varieties, with Cassia being more common.
• Tube cinnamon: Typically not for household use, sold in tubes over half a meter long.
• Broken cinnamon: This is the stick variety, crushed and often sold at a lower price for distillation purposes.

Ingredients:
Key components of cinnamon include:

• Vitamins K, C, B6, and B1
• Fiber
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Iron
• Manganese

Health Benefits of Cinnamon:

• Controls blood sugar levels.
• Reduces cholesterol.
• Decreases inflammation.
• Aids in weight loss.
• Improves brain function.
• Boosts the immune system.
• Promotes digestive health.
• Enhances oral health.
• Regulates blood pressure.
• Has anti-cancer properties.
• Regulates menstruation.
• Improves mood.
• Reduces symptoms of fatty liver.
• Increases libido.
• Protects the skin.

Storage Instructions:
Paprika should not be stored in very hot environments (such as storage rooms) or exposed to direct sunlight. If stored properly, it can be used for 12 to 18 months without issues.

It is better to store spices away from moisture, as exposure to moisture reduces their aroma and flavor. It is recommended to divide paprika powder into smaller containers to use only the required amount when needed. Since most spices have a soil origin and may be contaminated with soil microbes, it is recommended to use sterilized versions in hygienic packaging.

Warnings:

• Digestive issues.
• Excessive lowering of blood sugar.
• Increased heart rate.
• Drug interactions.
• Allergies.
• Skin irritation.

In general, consuming small amounts of cinnamon during pregnancy and breastfeeding is safe. However, it is better to consult a doctor before using this spice during these periods. Excessive consumption of cinnamon can lead to miscarriage.

Usage and Dosage:
Some researchers recommend a daily intake of 2 to 4 grams of cinnamon powder, while others suggest 1 to 6 grams. However, be cautious, as excessive consumption of cinnamon can be toxic.