Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a fragrant spice which comes from the inner bark of a tropical tree that, when dried, curls into quills used to add a warm, distinctive flavour and aroma to usually sweet dishes.

Choose the best
Choose cinnamon that has a distinctive, warm and sweet aroma. If it does not smell sweet it is past its best and should be discarded.

Store it
Store cinnamon sticks in a air-tight container in a warm, cool place.

Cook it
Ground in cakes, biscuits and desserts. Sprinkled over fruit. Added whole to casseroles, mulled wine and punch. Beat into butter with a little sugar and spread on toast or sprinkle on cereal. Soak a cinnamon stick in herbal tea before drinking; add to water when boiling rice.

Can't find it
Try cassia or nutmeg

Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.

In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.

In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland, cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month.

When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Cinnamon Recipes
Banana cinnamon whirls
Cinnamon nutella cake
Rhubarb cinnamon brown sugar muffins

Source
BBC Good Food
Eat This

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