Cinnamon A Stablizing Spice

When you are asked to name a spice, you quickly think of cinnamon. Cinnamon is the most commonly used spice after black pepper. For centuries cinnamon has been used as a natural remedy and rightfully does so.

Cinnamon is proven to improve peripheral circulation, thus increasing the blood flow to the hands and feet. It is also shown to have an insulin-like effect on the blood sugar levels of people with type 2 diabetes.

Cinnamon also said that It may reduce blood cholesterol levels, however more research is needed on both of these effects.

Which Cinnamon to Use

Each cinnamon has its own unique flavour and aroma. There are four main kinds of cinnamons. Cassia is known to be the most common cinnamon. When you shop from your grocery store, If it does not say explicitly Ceylon or Saigon Cinnamon, then you most certainly get Cassia.

Cassia is known to have a more spicy aroma and flavour. Cassia is the other kind of cinnamon that unlike Ceylon is known to have some levels of coumarin. Saigon cinnamon has the lowest level of coumarin among the Cassia cinnamons according to the European food inspection agency.

If you are taking cinnamon for its healthy or medical reasons, then you should most certainly use Ceylon cinnamon.

Flavour Profile

Ceylon cinnamon is a perfect spice to make your own cinnamon tea. We recommend brewing your tea (black or rooibos tea) with Ceylon cinnamon, star anise and cardamom for maximum flavour. It is also a perfect spice for making cocktails and baking. If you are cooking a stew that you would like a more spicy food profile then you can use Saigon cinnamon for a more potent flavour.