Everyone has heard of cinnamon. It is the brown bark of the cinnamon tree. When the bark is dried, it rolls up in what is called a quill. In the store this is called cinnamon sticks. Cinnamon is more often used as a powder.

Most of the cinnamon sold in the U.S. today is really cassia or Chinese cinnamon. Real cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka and is called Ceylon cinnamon since Sri Lanka was formerly known as Ceylon. Today Sri Lanka exports between 10,000 and 12,000 metric tons of cinnamon annually.

The word cinnamon comes from the Greek kinnamomon. It was mentioned in many ancient history books, including the Bible in Exodus 30:23 where it was used in a holy anointing oil, and in Proverbs 7:17, Song of Solomon 4:14, and Revelaton 18:13 as a source of a fragrant smell. Cinnamon gets this scent and flavor from a chemical compound called cinnamaldehyde. Cinnamon is also mentioned in Chinese writings as far back as 2800 BC.

In Ancient Egypt and Rome, cinnamon was used in the embalming process. The Egyptians also used cinnamon medicinally and as a flavoring in food and beverages. In the Middle Ages, cinnamon was only affordable by the elite of society. A person’s social rank could be determined by the number of spices he owned.

Though most commonly used as a spice, cinnamon has many health benefits. Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol. Other studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to stop some types of yeast infections.

Cinnamon’s anti-clotting quality helps reduce heart problems. A study at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland indicated that cinnamon decreased the spread of lymphoma and leukemia cancer cells. At another university patients reduced pain caused by arthritis by using cinnamon for just one week. Cinnamon also reduces food spoilage by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. It is a type of natural food preservative.

Regular use of cinnamon also boosts cognitive function and memory, and fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices. It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium. The combination of calcium and fiber can help to remove bile, which prevents damage to colon cells. This helps prevent colon cancer. Fiber also can help with the relief of constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.

Cinnamon has been used to treat yeast infections of the mouth and vagina, stomach ulcers, and head lice. Components of the essential oils are responsible for these healing qualities. Cinnamon also fights bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

In addition, cinnamon has been valued for its warming qualities. At the onset of a cold or flu, children are often given a tea containing cinnamon and fresh ginger.

Here are some recipes for enjoying cinnamon in a variety of ways. Adding ground cinnamon to black beans to be used in burritos or nachos will give them a uniquely delicious taste. Simmer cinnamon sticks with soymilk and honey for a deliciously warming beverage. Healthy saute lamb with eggplant, raisins and cinnamon sticks to create a Middle Eastern inspired meal. Add ground cinnamon when preparing curries. Drizzle flax seed oil onto whole wheat toast and then sprinkle with cinnamon and honey. Enjoy cinnamon toast with a healthy twist.

A few cautions are in order. Don’t think that because a little cinnamon is good for you, a lot is better. Large amounts can be toxic. Cinnamon should not be used in place of prescription medicines either. If you want to keep cinnamon fresh, store it in a tightly sealed glass container in a dark, cool, and dry place. The smell of it will tell you if it is fresh and sweet.