Many Europeans associate cinnamon with a specific aromatic spice that is added to pastries and fruit and vegetable salads. But in world practice, the use of spices is not limited to this. In the kitchens of different nations, it is added to meat, aspic fish, appetizers, first courses, desserts, various pickles, marinades. The universality of this product also proves its widespread use in therapeutic and cosmetological purposes. What is useful fragrant powder, how to distinguish between types of cinnamon and where you can apply for beauty and health - we will tell about this later in the article.
Chemical composition
The spice, which is familiar to us, is made from dried bark of Ceylon konichnik, which grows in abundance in the East. Local chefs use daily around a teaspoon of this flavored powder, while their American and European colleagues are much more restrained in its consumption.
Did you know? Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices. Spice was an essential attribute of the Egyptian healers, as evidenced by the archaeological excavations of the pyramid of Cheops. At one time, the inhabitants of the Roman Empire equated spice with silver.
The popularity and useful properties of cinnamon due to its chemical components. The spice is valuable in the abundance of vitamins, micro and macronutrients, as well as essential oils. No wonder folk healers consider it a source of energy and vitality. 
The 100 gram serving of powder contains:
- proteins - 4 g;
- fats 1.24 g;
- carbohydrates - 80.59 g;
- water - 10.58 g;
- ash - 3.60 g4
- fiber - 53.1 g;
- sugar - 2.2 g
The nutritional value of the spice mass analyzed is 247 kilocaloriesthat equals two servings of milk rice porridge. At the same time, there is no trans fat or cholesterol in the composition of the spice.
In addition, cinnamon has many vital substances for humans. Namely:
Vitamins:
- retinol (A) - 15 µg;
- beta carotene - 112 mcg;
- alpha carotene - 1, mcg;
- tocopherol (E) - 2.3 μg;
- phylloquinone (K) - 31.2 mcg;
- ascorbic acid (C) - 3.8 µg;
- thiamine (B1) - 1.8 µg;
- Riboflavin (B2) - 0.4 µg4
- nicotinic acid (B3) - 1.3 μg;
- choline (B4) - 11 µg;
- Pantothenic acid (B5) - 0.4 µg;
- pyridoxine (B6) - 0.2 µg;
- folic acid (B9) - 6.0 µg;
- cyanocobalamin (B12) - 0.12 mcg.
Minerals:
- calcium - 1002 mg (absolutely corresponds to the recommended daily intake);
- iron - 8.3 mg;
- magnesium - 60.0 mg;
- phosphorus - 64.0 mg;
- potassium - 431.0 mg;
- sodium 10.0 mg;
- zinc - 1.8 mg;
- copper - 0.3 mg;
- manganese - 17.5 mg;
- selenium - 3.1 mcg.
That is why cinnamon powder and whole strips of bark are found in almost every kitchen and are considered to be a royal spice.
Did you know? For the manufacture of spicy spices suitable only young bark. The process of its preparation is carried out only on biennial plants. First, they are completely cut off and within a year they wait for new shoots. They remove the upper layer of the cortex, leaving half a centimeter of the inner part of the trunk. It is carefully cut off with meter strips and rolled up into tubes. This is followed by drying and cutting into small pieces.
Real cinnamon and cassia: the differences
In the world market today, cinnamon collected from plants in Sri Lanka is considered the benchmark for quality. Many scholars believe that this is where the historical and botanical birthplace of Ceylon shrubs, from which they produce the popular spice, is there. Top three leaders closes Indian and Albian products. 
Many people do not even suspect that instead of cinnamon they buy another kind of cinnamon - cassia. It is difficult to distinguish these spices, because both of them are characterized by a pleasant spicy aroma and are very similar in appearance.
Important! Cassia is not a fake, because Chinese kinnikov and Chinese korichnik are real - they are different types of one plant, the bark of which practically does not differ in composition and properties.
Experts advise to pay special attention to the appearance, smell, labels on the labels and fragility of the whole product. This will help you the following rules commodity:
- True Ceylon, or as it is also called noble, cinnamon (kinamon) is labeled "Cinnamomum zeylonicum" ("Cinnamomum verum"). But cassia is designated "Cinnamomum aromaticum".
- The authenticity of cinnamon powder at home can be verified using an elementary chemical experiment: put a little spice on a teaspoon and drip a few drops of iodine on top. If the contents turn blue - you are dealing with real cinnamon. But the blue-black hue is characteristic of cassia.
- Since not all manufacturers indicate the true origin of the ground powder, it is better to give preference to the whole bark tubes. As needed, they are dried in a dry frying pan and ground.
- Genuine cinnamon sticks are always tightly twisted at both ends, and on slices they resemble lamb horns. Cassia, on the other hand, is characterized by very thick walls and, therefore, goes on sale either without any twisted or without curls inherent in Ceylon products. Sometimes there are instances, curled into a roll on one side only.
- Sticks of high-quality kinamona are very thin and brittle. And in the Chinese variation they are “oak” and hard to break.
- Ceylon cinnamon always smells stronger and has strong taste properties.
- Noble cinnamon tubes are the same color from the inside and outside, they are characterized by light color. Cassia is characterized by non-uniform color. Often her sticks are dark or grayish-brown inside and light outside.
Cassia and CinnamonImportant! There is a myth that cassia is incredibly dangerous due to the presence of coumarins. Firstly, this substance is in cinnamon, but, indeed, in smaller quantities, and secondly, in order to cause health damage, you need to eat a few kilograms of spices at a time.
Spice Spice Benefits
The beneficial properties of cinnamon many thousands of years ago enjoyed our ancestors. And modern luminaries of medical science confirm the beneficial effect of fragrant spices on all vital systems of the human body. Traditional medicine recommends the additive as a general stimulant, immunomodulatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent.
Spice is used for:
- normalization of the gastrointestinal tract;
- fight against all sorts of infections and fungi;
- treating diabetes;
- cancer prevention;
- cleansing of the choleretic system and liver;
- improve kidney function;
- disinfection of the urogenital system;
- nerve relaxation;
- concentration of attention and strengthening of vision (2 - 3 pinches per day are enough);
- memory improvements;
- recuperation with physical and emotional fatigue;
- relieving menstrual pains and relieving irritability these days;
- increase sexual activity;
- prevention of heart attack;
- strengthen the blood arteries and heart muscle;
- treatment of arthritis, including its chronic forms;
- good night;
- relieve headaches and fatigue;
- to restore the body with sclerosis and depression;
- treating colds, sore throats, coughs and flu;
- losing weight;
- improve hair and skin color;
- breath freshening;
- improvement of intellectual activity;
- relieve inflammation, disinfection with toothache and pulpitis.
It is interesting to read about the composition, properties, application in cooking, medicine and cosmetology of spices: basil, thyme, rosemary, coriander, marjoram, turmeric, tarragon, fennel, parsley, dill, barberry, cumin (dur), horseradish, chabra, saffron, lavender , laurel, mustard, nasturtium, fenugreek, chervil, cumin.
Application recipes
The use of cinnamon in the world and home cooking is quite diverse. It all depends on the traditions, national cuisine and taste preferences. For example, while artsy Europeans enjoy the scent with delight cinnamon buns and carefully measure the portion measure of spices for anti-aging fruit saladAsian cooks generously sprinkle absolutely all their culinary creations with spice. We will avoid complex formulations and dwell on variations in the use of cinnamon for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. 
Kefir with cinnamon for weight loss
By itself, kefir improves digestion and intestinal motility, and cinnamon dulls appetite and promotes fat splitting. In tandem, these two components help to quickly get rid of extra pounds. Enhance the effect of kefir-cinnamon drink can ginger and red pepper. Also do not interfere with massage, body wrap and exercise. With proper nutrition, the expected result will be obvious in a couple of weeks.
Read also about the composition and properties of bitter pepper, ginger, ginger tea, the benefits of ginger for women and men.
Fat burning drink is prepared from 1 cup of kefir and half a teaspoon of spice. It is important not to replace the basis of drinking ryazhenka, yogurt or other dairy products. Prefer fresh skimmed yogurt. 
This cocktail is recommended as a dinner or as an aperitif. In this case, the tool should be taken 20 minutes before meals. In no case do not replace the entire daily diet with kefir with cinnamon. One fasting day is allowed. Anything above, will lead to disruptions in the functioning of internal organs.
Did you know? Many marketers are advised to use cinnamon smell to improve sales. That is why in the stores, the range of which is very far from cooking, often smells of this pleasant spice. The list of "sold" smells included "coffee", "freshly cut grass", "strawberry", "vanilla"".
Cinnamon with cold honey
Honey and cinnamon paste helps to cope with fever, runny nose, sore throat and cough. For the treatment of ENT diseases of bacterial and viral origin, you need to mix 1 tablespoon fresh honey and a quarter teaspoon of spice. All mix until smooth and take three times a day. The course of treatment lasts 3 days.
Alternatively, you can make honey-cinnamon tea. The classic recipe provides for the cultivation in 1 cup of warm water 1 tsp of cinnamon and honey. The drink is recommended to take in the morning on an empty stomach and before bedtime.
We advise you to read about the differences and healing properties of different types of honey: sunflower, chestnut, buckwheat, linden, acacia, pygillous, hawthorn, phacelia, sweet clover, rapeseed, esparcetovy, may, mountain.
Means to increase potency
The uniqueness of the bark of Ceylon korichnik is that it can be combined with anything, while obtaining the maximum benefit. There are many ways to increase male libido. 
Some as an aphrodisiac prefer to combine with spice hot wine drinks. In this case, to taste mulled wine, you can add honey, cloves, lemon juice. Others believe that only regular consumption of spices will lead to the expected result. Therefore, try to add it to all sorts of dishes.
Read also about the benefits and dangers of cloves and lemon.
Traditional medicine to improve erection offers a simple recipe of 2 parts of warm water and 1 part of brown kinnik powder. These ingredients need to combine and let it brew for about half an hour. Then to the resulting mass is added to taste honey. Drinking is recommended to take 100 grams before meals three times a day. The course of therapy should not exceed 60 days.
Cinnamon Tea
This drink will help with insomnia, nervous disorders, as well as ensure the full functioning of all vital organs, saturate the body with vitamins and minerals. It is recommended for the normalization of blood sugar, purification of toxins and cholesterol, weight loss and increase the tone of the body.
Did you know? In the East, cinnamon has long been available only to the rich. For them, prepared a special baking, wine drinks and air fresheners. This spice first came to Europe in 1505, when navigator Lorenzo do Alma visited Ceylon. .
Preparing to drink is very simple: just add half a teaspoon of ground spices in brewed green or black tea. If desired, sweeten tea can be honey. Some housewives, depending on their taste preferences, improvise with a combination of clove, mint, lemon. You can consume this drink in unlimited quantities, preferably between meals. 
Coffee with cinnamon
In the Middle Ages, this drink was considered the best cure for obesity and emotional exhaustion. The spice was recommended to heat the blood and increase vitality. Modern medicine is in solidarity with its ancient colleagues and advises the drink as an antioxidant.
You can prepare it in different ways. For example:
- Arabic recipe (traditional) It consists in combining equal parts (half a teaspoon) of ground coffee and cinnamon, after which the mixture is poured with 125 milliliters of water. The liquid is brought to a boil over low heat. And when the foam begins to form, the Turk is removed from the stove and allowed to stand for some time. Half of the drink is poured into a cup, and the other is again brought to a boil (this stage is necessary for the formation of fragrant foam). After that, the liquids are mixed.
- Coffee with milk and cinnamon made by brewing spicy sticks. This is done in 150 milliliters of milk on low heat for 5 minutes. When foam forms, remove the pan from the heat and allow the liquid to cool slightly. Then reheat again. In the meantime, a teaspoon of ground coffee is brewed in 120 milliliters of water in the traditional way. Add cinnamon milk to a cup and optionally sugar.
- Coffee with cinnamon and honey consumed regardless of the time of year. The drink is made from brewed in the usual way coffee (250 milliliters), 1 teaspoon of honey and cream. All combine and sprinkle with a pinch of spices on top.
Too much to get involved in such drinks is not worth it, because coffee has a big load on the heart. It is enough to treat yourself with a pleasant aromatic drink once a day in the morning.
Video: coffee with cinnamon and chocolate
Application in cosmetology
You can get not only gastronomic and aesthetic pleasure from fragrant spices. It is very useful for health and beauty. Therefore, noble ancient Egyptian beauties, including Cleopatra, widely used seasoning as a universal remedy for face, hair and body care. Until today, the recipes that have improved modern cosmetologists. Here are some of them.
Did you know? The fact went down in history when the Egyptian queen Hatshepsut sent merchants to sail on 5 ships for ivory, gold and cinnamon. In those days, for a few grams of this spice were ready to give a kilogram of pure gold.
For hair
The powder from the bark of Ceylon korichnik is the best of natural products for strengthening and lightening hair. This is due to the rich composition of the product, which gently affects the hair structure.
Lightening
Tandem is important for effect honey and cinnamonwhich are natural peroxide agents. The classic recipe for natural clarifier is reduced to mixing equal parts (depending on the expected effect, take 0.5-2 tablespoons) of liquid honey, cinnamon, olive oil and conditioner. The mixture is applied to wet hair and wrap with cellophane for 3-4 hours. Then wash off as with chemical staining. The advantage of this method is not only a gentle lightening effect, but also the nutrition of the hair follicles, the pleasant aroma of curls.
Video: mask with cinnamon to lighten hair
Recovery and increase
In order for the curls to become alive and shiny, they need a moisturizing and nourishing cinnamon-honey mask. For its preparation will need:
- 3 tablespoons of liquid fresh honey;
- 3 tablespoons powdered cinnamon;
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil;
- 1 teaspoon of castorca;
- 5 drops of essential cinnamon oil.
In a water bath, melt coconut oil, add honey, cinnamon and alternately remaining oils. Mix until smooth and apply the composition on dry hair. Top wrap with a plastic cap and a towel. After 40 minutes, the mask can be washed off with regular shampoo.
With a weekly use of this tool, the hair will accelerate its growth, stop falling out, and dandruff will disappear. It is especially useful to make such masks in the winter, when the hair is exposed to rapid temperature changes, the influence of heating devices and the negative facts of the external environment. 
For face
Spice is used in cosmetology to improve complexion, rejuvenate and moisturize the skin.
Important! To avoid premature aging of the skin, add 1 drop of cinnamon essential oil to your face care cream daily during evening dressing.
Nourishing mask
To this end, you can prepare a mask from:
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder;
- 1 teaspoon liquid honey;
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
Все ингредиенты смешивают до однородной консистенции и наносят состав на очищенную кожу лица, избегая участков вокруг глаз и губ. Через 30 минут маску смывают теплой водой.
Узнайте, чем полезен мускатный орех.
Против прыщей и угревой сыпи
In order not to disturb acne, small pimples and inflammations, try to cleanse the face with the following composition:
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice;
- 1 tea boat liquid honey;
- 1 teaspoon of garlic gruel;
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder.
All mix and apply gruel on the affected skin. After 10 minutes, wash your face with cool water.
Video: Cinnamon honey mask for beautiful complexion
Contraindications
In reasonable portions spice does not hurt. the main thing - do not abuse it. Many slimming ladies often suffer precisely because of the fact that in anticipation of a quick result they arbitrarily increase the recommended portion of seasoning.
Contained in the bark of the ceylon Ceylon coumarins when accumulated in the body detrimental effect on the liver. therefore spice is not recommended for people diagnosed:
- any abnormalities in the liver;
- hypertension;
- individual intolerance;
- susceptibility to allergies;
- poor blood clotting;
- propensity for internal and external bleeding.
Did you know? The highlight of French Bordeaux is still considered cinnamon cupcakes. Their recipe came up thrifty nuns. In the holds of merchant ships, they collected the remains of flour, mixed it with butter and sugar. And in order to give the modest dough a refined taste and smell, they sprinkled the forms with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
Excess cinnamon leads to severe headaches, increased nervous irritability. 
User reviews on cinnamon application
If earlier the spicy powder was available only to representatives of the imperial blood, today it is in the kitchen of every hostess. A small pinch of seasoning will improve the taste of the dish and benefit the body. Do not forget to respect the measure in everything!
