Ceylon Cinnamon and its Antioxidant Benefits
Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is Ceylon Cinnamon?
- Antioxidant Properties of Ceylon Cinnamon
- Other Health Benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon
- Using Ceylon Cinnamon for Antioxidant Benefits
- Conclusion
One of the most well-known spices in the world, cinnamon has a long history of application in both conventional medical and culinary practices all over the world. Cinnamon from Ceylon, also referred to as "true" cinnamon, is a variety of cinnamon that can be found in its natural habitat in southern India and Sri Lanka. In comparison to the more common cassia cinnamon, this variety of cinnamon has a flavour that is both softer and sweeter.
Cinnamon has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including the ability to act as an antioxidant, in addition to its culinary applications. Antioxidants are substances that can protect cells from the damage that free radicals cause. Free radicals are molecules that are inherently unstable and can cause harm to the body if their levels increase. Individuals can benefit from gaining a better understanding of the antioxidant properties of cinnamon so that they can make more educated decisions regarding their diet and lifestyle.
What is Ceylon Cinnamon?
Cinnamomum verum is a species of small evergreen tree that is native to Sri Lanka. The inner bark of these trees is where Ceylon cinnamon is obtained. After being harvested and dried, the bark is stripped off and then curled into quills, which are then used as a spice. Cinnamomum ceylanicum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, differs from Cinnamomum cassia, also known as cassia cinnamon, in that it has a paler colour and a more delicate bark.
The spice cinnamon has been utilized in a wide variety of rituals and customs dating back to ancient times. In ancient Egypt, it was used both as a perfume and in the process of embalming. It was a prized spice in medieval Europe, and it was used in both culinary and medicinal preparations. Cinnamon is used to support digestive health and is thought to have warming properties, according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Cinnamon contains a variety of compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and linalool, which are responsible for its signature flavour and aroma. Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the cinnamon tree. These compounds are another factor that may contribute to the potential health benefits of cinnamon.
Antioxidant Properties of Ceylon Cinnamon
Antioxidants are essential for shielding the body from the damaging effects of free radicals, which is why they play such an important role. Free radicals are unbalanced molecules that have the potential to cause damage to cells and play a role in the progression of a number of chronic diseases. Some of these conditions include cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Cinnamon from Ceylon contains a number of different compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, all of which have antioxidant properties. These compounds have the potential to reduce the oxidative stress that is caused by free radicals and help to neutralize them.
According to some research, cinnamon may have a positive impact on the biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation that are found in the body. According to the findings of one study, prediabetic individuals who consumed cinnamon extract had significantly lower levels of oxidative stress markers. In yet another study, it was discovered that supplementing with cinnamon improved the antioxidant status of individuals who were overweight or obese.
Individuals who want to improve their health should consider adding cinnamon from Ceylon to their diet because of the anti-oxidant properties that it possesses.
Other Health Benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon
In addition to the antioxidant properties that it possesses, cinnamon from Ceylon also possesses a wide range of other potential health benefits.
Cinnamon contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and pain in the body. These anti-inflammatory properties are what give cinnamon its name.
Anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties: Because cinnamon naturally contains anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties, it has the potential to be used as a natural remedy for skin conditions and infections.
Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. This effect is how cinnamon is able to regulate blood sugar. Those who suffer from type 2 diabetes may find this to be of particular assistance.
Using Ceylon Cinnamon for Antioxidant Benefits
There are many different ways to consume cinnamon from Ceylon in order to reap the anti-oxidant benefits of this spice.
Cinnamon can be consumed in a variety of forms, including as a spice in food and drinks, as a dietary supplement in capsule form, or as a topical application in the form of essential oils or lotions.
Dosages suitable for consumption The quantity of cinnamon that is suitable for consumption can differ from person to person and from one form of cinnamon to another. Before adding cinnamon supplements to your diet, it is essential to ensure that you are adhering to the recommended dosages and speaking with a qualified medical professional.
Possible side effects and precautions: It is generally accepted that consuming cinnamon in amounts that are found in food is safe; however, taking cinnamon in supplement form in excessive amounts can lead to adverse effects such as liver damage and mouth sores. Before using cinnamon supplements, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the possible side effects and safety precautions.
In conclusion, cinnamon from Ceylon is an aromatic spice that has been utilized in the practice of traditional medicine for many centuries. Because of its antioxidant properties, it has the potential to be used as a natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. However, in order to guarantee both its safety and efficacy, it is necessary to use cinnamon Ceylon of high quality and to adhere to the dosage instructions provided. Before adding cinnamon supplements to your diet, it is best to discuss the decision with a qualified medical professional, as is the case with the consumption of any other dietary supplement.
Here you can see Vorst’s pure and natural Ceylon Cinnamon 600 mg Vegan Capsules.
References and Resources
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24148965/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16213119/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21929331/