Ceylon Cinnamon - The Good Spice
Ceylon Cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanikum, is also known as true cinnamon. Ceylon and Cassia are the two main types of cinnamon. While Ceylon Cinnamon has a milder, aromatic flavor, the more common and inferior Cassia Cinnamon has a more pungent aroma and flavor.
The commercial cultivation of Cinnamon has made this spice more common and readily available. However, in Ancient Egyptian times this flavorful spice was rare and valued as a prized gift, fit for royalty.
Much more than a well-loved spice that adds a special flavor to supplements, functional foods and beverages, Ceylon Cinnamon Powder has many recognized health-giving benefits. Read on to discover what these benefits are.
General Information
Ceylon Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of the small Ceylon Cinnamon tree which is native to Sri Lanka. Prior to processing, the bark is left to dry and forms curled sticks or quills with numerous thin layers. These quills can then be ground into a fine powder by simply using a coffee or spice grinder.
Ceylon Cinnamon's distinctive taste and aroma comes from the cinnamaldehyde compound which also provides the spice with health-enhancing properties.1
While the powder produced from grinding Cassia Cinnamon is dark brown in color with a pungent aroma, Ceylon Cinnamon Powder has a light to medium reddish brown color and a mild sweet taste and aroma.
Nutrients and Benefits
High in polyphenol antioxidants and filled with vital minerals, Ceylon Cinnamon contains the flavonoid phenolic antioxidants carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein and crytoxanthin.2
Just a teaspoon of Ceylon Cinnamon provides up to 16% of the USDA for manganese, 3% for iron and 3% for calcium. In addition, Ceylon Cinnamon Powder contains:
- Very good levels of vitamin A, niacin, pantothenic acid, and pyridoxine
- Good levels of the minerals zinc, potassium and magnesium
The Cinnamaldehyde compound may help promote cardiovascular health. Research studies have also shown cinnamon may help boost the immune system, support healthy nervous system and blood sugar levels. It has also been indicated for promoting healthy weight by speeding up body metabolism.
Product Specifications/Applications
NP Nutra's Ceylon Cinnamon Powder (organic) comes from India and is tan to brown in color, partly-soluble with a characteristic aroma and flavor. Our premium product is food grade, Certified Organic, Kosher, Pesticide-free and is produced in a BRC certified facility.
NP Nutra's Ceylon Cinnamon Powder (organic) can be:
- Encapsulated;
- Packaged with private-label;
- Formulated into a unique blend of spices and herbs;
- Added to functional foods and beverages such as lattes, juices, smoothies, cereal, oatmeal, snacks, sweets, ice cream, nutritional bars and baked goods;
- Used as an ingredient in oral hygiene, skin and body care products.
Contact us for a free sample and further product information.
References:
1 https://authoritynutrition.com/10-ways-to-boost-metabolism
2 http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/cinnamon-spice.html
