Cinnamon has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient Egypt where it was highly prized for its medicinal properties. It was also used in ancient Rome and Greece, where it was considered a luxury spice. In medieval times, cinnamon was so highly valued that it was worth more than gold.
Origin of
Cinnamon
Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of trees belonging to the Cinnamomum family. These trees are native to Sri Lanka, India, and other parts of Asia. Cinnamon has been traded for thousands of years and was once a valuable commodity in the spice trade.
Health Benefits
Cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a potential aid for people with type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon has also been linked to improvements in cholesterol levels, brain function, and dental health. Additionally, some studies have suggested that cinnamon may have anti-cancer properties.
Nutritional Values
Nutritional values for 1 teaspoon (2.6g) of ground cinnamon:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 18 |
| Protein | 0.6 grams |
| Fat | 0.4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 1.6 grams |
| Vitamin C | 0.8 mg |
| Potassium | 49 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Calcium | 15 mg |
| Phosphorus | 10 mg |