HERBAL SPOTLIGHT - CINNAMON
Backstory
Cinnamon, derived from the bark of Cinnamomum trees, has a rich history that spans cultures and civilizations.
This aromatic spice has been cherished for its distinctive flavor and medicinal properties for centuries. Its warm and sweet aroma makes it a popular addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Cinnamon also holds a special place in traditional medicine systems for its potential health benefits and common uses.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which is responsible for its unique flavor and many of its
health-promoting properties. Studies suggest that cinnamon may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial
effects. Cinnamon “contains a lot of manganese, iron, dietary fiber, and calcium.” (Cinnamon and Chronic Diseases
Mitra Hariri, Reza Ghiasvand
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20924865/).
Can Cinnamon Reduce Blood Sugar?
One of the most well-known health benefits of cinnamon is its potential to help regulate blood sugar levels. It may
improve insulin sensitivity, making it a valuable consideration for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of
developing the condition. Scientific research has shown that “the available in vitro and animal in vivo evidence
suggests that cinnamon has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, cardiovascular,
cholesterol-lowering, and immunomodulatory effects. In vitro studies have demonstrated that cinnamon may act as an
insulin mimetic, to potentiate insulin activity or to stimulate cellular glucose metabolism.” (Cinnamon and health
Joerg Gruenwald, Janine Freder, Nicole Armbruester
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27771918/).
Cinnamon and Heart Health
Cinnamon also has the potential to support heart health. It may help lower bad cholesterol levels and triglycerides,
which are risk factors for heart disease. Some research indicates that cinnamon could contribute to better blood
circulation and reduced blood pressure as well.
Cinnamon and Brain Health
Beyond these effects, cinnamon might play a role in improving cognitive function and brain health. It’s thought to
have neuroprotective properties that could help combat age-related cognitive decline.
If supplementing with Cinnamon, follow recommended serving sizes and consult a medical professional prior.
Healthy Cinnamon Recipes
Cinnamon can be used in a wide variety of culinary creations, both sweet and savory.
Cinnamon-Spiced Oatmeal: Sprinkle ground cinnamon over your morning bowl of oatmeal for a
comforting and aromatic start to the day.
Cinnamon Roasted Vegetables: Toss sweet potatoes, carrots, or butternut squash with olive
oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon before roasting for a unique twist on roasted veggies.
Cinnamon Rice Pilaf: Add a cinnamon stick to your rice while cooking to infuse it with
a warm and enticing flavor.
Cinnamon-Infused Tea: Steep a cinnamon stick in hot water to create a soothing and
aromatic herbal tea to
be paired with a spoonful of honey and a squeeze of lemon.
SUSTAINABLE SOURCING
Monterey Bay Herb Co. is proud to work with a sourcing partner that is fully vertically
integrated with producing, processing, exporting, and distributing high quality
organic cinnamon.
In addition to Organic, our Cinnamon is Rainforest Alliance certified, ensuring
sustainability of habitat and species preservation.
We support a farming cooperative that is made up of small holder farmers in rural communities.
Our sourcing partner provides training to maintain Organic and Rainforest Alliance farming
practices. One of the benefits of a cooperative is that farmers are guaranteed the sale of
what they grow. The cooperative provides seedlings to farmers for free in exchange for the
growth and harvest of future Cinnamon trees. The cooperative also provides seedlings of ylang
ylang, vanilla, and patchouli for intercropping. This promotes biodiversity and agricultural
regeneration.
Our Cinnamon is processed in facilities that maintain high quality food safety
practices, including an in house laboratory that rigorously tests for quality.
Monterey Bay Herb Co. strives to be the best sourcing partner for small businesses
who harness botanicals to create wellness in our world. Our strict sourcing
sustainability standards ensure that we can offer high quality ingredients that are
consistently in stock and our relationships with our sourcing partners guarantee you
competitive prices.
