Cinnamon - the sweet magic of the East

Cinnamon is an evergreen tree that belongs to the genus Cinnamomum in the Lauraceae family. Cinnamomum verum and Cinnamomum cassia are two of the most popular types of cinnamon. Both are used as spices, but true cinnamon is considered more subtle and has a slightly sweeter taste. The cinnamon tree can grow up to 10-15 metres tall, with shiny leaves and small white or yellow flowers that develop in clusters. Then fruits with large seeds form.

Cinnamon has been known since ancient times and has been one of the world's most valuable spices. The cinnamon trade has a long history and has led to trade routes linking different continents. The origin of cinnamon is linked to Sri Lanka (known as Ceylon) in South Asia, where it was cultivated and traded thousands of years ago. In antiquity, cinnamon was extremely expensive and popular with rulers and the rich. The Roman Empire was particularly dependent on cinnamon and other exotic spices that came from the East. In the Middle Ages, the high price of cinnamon prompted Europeans to seek new trade routes to the East.

Cinnamon is grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is important to have warmth, moisture and enough sun to grow it successfully. Here are some key aspects about growing cinnamon:

• Climate:Cinnamon prefers a humid climate with an average annual temperature around 27-30°C. It can grow in colder temperatures, but frost can harm it.
• Soil: Good soil drainage is essential for successful cinnamon cultivation. It prefers soils with medium acidity and good fertility.
• Soil preparation: before planting, the soil must be worked and prepared. Drilling or trenching systems are usually done to ensure sufficient moisture.
• Growing and Care: For successful growth, cinnamon needs regular watering and maintenance of adequate soil moisture. Trees are pruned periodically to encourage branching and maintain compact growth.

As a cultivated crop, cinnamon needs special care and suitable conditions for successful cultivation. Grown in this way, it can be used to produce a high-quality spice that is in demand on the international market.

Cinnamon is not only a delicious spice, but it also has various health benefits that are being studied by numerous studies. However, it is always a good idea to consult a medical professional before including cinnamon or cinnamon supplements in your diet, especially if you have health problems or are taking medications. Here are some of the main health benefits of cinnamon:

• Antioxidant Action:Cinnamon is a source of powerful antioxidants such as polyphenols. These compounds help to reduce the harmful effects of free radicals in the body, which can lead to oxidative stress and various diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties:Cinnamon is considered an anti-inflammatory agent. This can be useful when exercising, working out, or to support general health.
• Adjusting the levels of blood sugarA: Some research suggests that cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. This is especially important for people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
• Improving cardiovascular health: some studies have shown that cinnamon can help reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, which can improve cardiovascular health.
• Helping the immune system: cinnamon has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties that can help strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.
• Digestive support: cinnamon is considered stimulating to the digestive system and can help with problems such as gas, bloating and discomfort.
• Help for SlimmingA: Some people use cinnamon as a supplement to a weight loss diet, as it is believed that it can help improve metabolism and regulate appetite.
• Help with cognitive function: some studies have linked cinnamon consumption to improvements in cognitive function and memory.

To reap the benefits of cinnamon, you can include it in your meals, drinks or take cinnamon supplements. It is important to observe dosages and not exceed the recommended amount, as large amounts of cinnamon can be harmful to health. Cinnamon is known for its rich composition of biologically active compounds that give it its flavor and beneficial properties. The main constituents of cinnamon are as follows:

• Coumarins: Coumarins are one of the main aromatic compounds in cinnamon and give it its characteristic sweet taste. They are responsible for cinnamon's aroma and smell. However, some people may be sensitive to coumarins and need to limit their consumption of cinnamon.
• Essential oils: cinnamon contains small amounts of essential oils, which contain compounds such as canniferol, eugenol and carvacrol. These oils are responsible for the aroma and are also used in aromatherapy.
• Root substances: root substances, such as eugenol and carvacrol, contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity.
• Tannins: Cinnamon contains tannins, which are antioxidants and can help fight free radicals in the body.
• Calcium, magnesium, iron and manganese: Cinnamon contains important minerals that can be used by the body to maintain the health of bones, muscles and the circulatory system.
• Dietary fiber: Cinnamon contains dietary fiber, which can help improve digestion and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamins: Cinnamon contains certain vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin K, which also have their health benefits.

These compounds and substances make cinnamon a valuable spice and food additive, while giving it many of the health benefits that are associated with it.

Cinnamon is known for its sweet and aromatic taste and is used as a spice in many culinary recipes, but it also has a number of health benefits.

• Cinnamon tea:

Ingredients: 1 cinnamon stick, 1 cup of water.

Directions. Break the cinnamon stick into smaller pieces and add it to the water. Boil for about 5 minutes. Strain and serve with a little honey, if desired.

• Cinnamon apples in the oven:

Ingredients: 4 apples (use hard and sweet varieties), 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons butter.

Preparation: wash and clean the apples, remove the seeds and cut them into thin slices. Preheat oven to 180°C. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Arrange the apples on a baking tray, drizzle with butter and sprinkle over the sugar and cinnamon mixture. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the apples are soft and lightly browned.

Despite its beneficial properties, cinnamon has some contraindications and is recommended to be used with moderation. Here are some of the most important contraindications of cinnamon:

• Allergies:Some people may be allergic to cinnamon or its constituents. If you experience allergic reactions such as itching, rash or breathing, discontinue its use immediately and seek medical attention.
• Breastfeeding and pregnancy: it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women consume cinnamon in moderation and after consulting a doctor, as large amounts of cinnamon can have an impact on them and the baby.
• Liver Disease: Cinnamon contains coumarin, which is a compound that can be toxic to the liver, especially when taken in large amounts or over a long period of time. People with liver disease or taking medications that are toxic to the liver should be especially careful.
• Adverse effects: Large amounts of cinnamon may cause irritation of the oral cavity and damage to the oral mucosa. In some cases, consumption of cinnamon can lead to unregulated blood pressure or allergic reactions.

Whether you want to improve your metabolism, feel the taste of Orienta or to make Christmas an even cosier holiday, the Bulgarian Tea Company offers a range of tea mixes with cinnamon.