Cinnamon is much more than just a spice for the Christmas season. It is obtained from the dried bark of the Ceylon cinnamon tree and various other cinnamon trees of the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon not only impresses with its unmistakable taste, but also with its versatile applications in food supplements, cosmetics and the food industry.
The diversity of cinnamon
There are numerous species of the plant genus within the laurel family and a variety of substitutes with a cinnamon-like aroma. Two types of cinnamon are mainly used worldwide:
- Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Also known as “true cinnamon tree”, it is characterized by its mild, sweet taste and contains less coumarin than other species, which makes it considered safe for health.
- Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia): More intense and spicy, with a higher coumarin content, which can be problematic if highly consumed.
Health aspects of coumarine
Coumarin can have toxic effects on the liver if consumed in excess. There is also evidence from animal studies that coumarin may have a carcinogenic effect. These findings make it particularly important to monitor the coumarin content in products and reduce it if necessary.
Health benefits of Ceylon cinnamon
Health benefits of Ceylon cinnamon Ceylon cinnamon has been known for centuries for its health benefits, which have now also been substantiated by studies.
- Regulating blood sugar levels
Cinnamon contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and cinnamic acid, which can help to stabilize blood sugar levels. Cinnamon can play a particularly supportive role for people with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. - Antioxidant properties
Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenols, which protect cells from oxidative stress. This can help prevent chronic diseases. - Anti-inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon can help to alleviate joint pain or chronic inflammation in the body. - Antimicrobial effect
Cinnamon oil is known for its ability to fight bacteria, fungi and even viruses, making it a natural preservative for food.
Cinnamon in the cosmetics industry
- Skin care: The circulation-promoting effect of cinnamon stimulates the skin and ensures a healthy glow.
- Anti-ageing: The antioxidant properties help to fight free radicals, which are responsible for skin ageing.
- Hair care: Cinnamon is often used in hair masks as it can stimulate the scalp and promote hair growth.
Cinnamon in food supplements
The increasing demand for natural food supplements has made cinnamon a sought-after raw material.
- Cinnamon extracts: They are available in capsules, powders or liquid form and are mainly used to regulate blood sugar levels and aid digestion.
- Combination products: Cinnamon is often combined with other active ingredients such as chromium or zinc to enhance the effect.
Conclusion
Cinnamon is a versatile raw material with great potential for the food, cosmetics and food supplement industries. Its health benefits, coupled with its unique aroma, make it a perennial favorite - not only during the Christmas season, but all year round. When purchasing and developing cinnamon, attention should be paid to its quality and origin. Organic certificates and sustainable cultivation practices are important criteria in order to meet the increasing demands of consumers. The use of cinnamon as an ingredient in food or food supplements is subject to clear limits for coumarin, which are set by law in the EU and other regions.
Do you have any questions or need support in integrating cinnamon into your products? We will be happy to advise you!
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Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies in order to prove them scientifically. Therefore, not all statements can currently be recognized by conventional medicine.
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