Did you know there are different types of cinnamon?

Cinnamon has many health benefits. But before we get into the benefits, let’s consider the different types of cinnamon. There are two types of cinnamon.

Ceylon cinnamon or “True” cinnamon and
Cassia cinnamon

The second is the more common variety that people know.

How is cinnamon made?

The stems of the cinnamon tree are cut; the inner bark extracted and the woody part removed. This is then dried; it curls and these are the cinnamon sticks.

The distinct flavour and aroma of cinnamon is due to the oily part which is high in cinnamaldehyde.

What are some of the benefits of cinnamon?

Cinnamon contains many antioxidants (polyphenol antioxidant).
It has anti-inflammatory properties.
It may cut the risk of heart disease.
It can improve sensitivity to the hormone insulin.
It lowers blood sugar levels and has anti-diabetic effects.
It may have beneficial effects on neurodegenerative diseases.
It may protect against cancer.
It helps fight bacterial and fungal infections.

Note that it is better to use “true” cinnamon, the Ceylon cinnamon. The cassia variety contains significant amounts of coumarin which may be harmful in large doses. “True” cinnamon can be harder to find but is certainly worth it, so ask around, check your local health food stores and check online. E.g. Cha’s true cinnamon

Different types of cinnamon

Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon):

This variety is called the “true” cinnamon because “verum” is Latin for “true”. This species originated in Sri Lanka or Ceylon. This type is preferred in England and Mexico but until recently not so much in the US.

Cinnamomum Cassian (Cassia):

This variety is more commonly used in the US. There are two types.

Saigon (Vietnamese):

Grown in Vietnam. It is the strongest variety of cinnamon. Sometimes referred to as “supreme”, it has a higher oil content, hence more flavour. Because of its bold flavour it is perfect for curries and cinnamon focused sweets and with other strong flavours like coffee and chocolate.

Indonesian (Korintje) Cinnamon:

Most common cinnamon and most likely in your cupboard. The least complex in flavour it does have that familiar sweet spiced flavour. It’s great in sweets, pies, pancakes or oatmeal. It will and can also be used in curies and rubs.

Lani and Norm

I enjoy learning and sharing that knowledge.Sharing has been in many forms over the years, as a teaching assistant, university lecturer, Pilates instructor, math tutor and just sharing with friends and family.Throughout, summarizing what I have learnt in words has always been there and continues to through blog posts, articles, video and the ever growing forms of content out there!