In the United States, there are basically 2 types of cinnamon sold (although there are over 200 varieties of cinnamon). In this post I'll be discussing the 2 main cinnamon's with their pros and cons.Ceylon Cinnamon -
Other Names - True Cinnamon, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum, Cinnamomum Verum
Origin - Sri Lanka also known as Ceylon.
Flavor/color - mild, delicate, lighter color.
Pros - Mild flavor is more desirable in beverages and such. Also Ceylon cinnamon is significantly lower in levels of the naturally occurring anticoagulant (blood thinning) coumarin. Coumarin may pose a health risk if consumed in large amounts regularly.
Cons- Ceylon cinnamon is typically more expensive. Harder to find. (I found mine at the local Farmers Market and on Amazon.com). Cassia Cinnamon -
Other names - Cinnamomum cassia, Cinnamomum aromaticaum-Chinese cinnamon, Saigon cinnamon, Cinnamomum burmannii-Java cinnamon, Padang cassia.
Origin- China, Vietnam, Indonesia.
Pros - most common cinnamon found in grocery stores. Also has a strong flavor enhances pies, cinnamon rolls etc.
Cons - significantly higher (100x or more)in levels of the naturally occurring anticoagulant (blood thinning) coumarin which may potentiate and interact with blood thinning medications if taken in medium to large doses.
Although Ceylon cinnamon showed to be a better source over all, both Ceylon and Cassia are good sources of :
- fiber, iron, calcium, and manganese
- anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties
- beneficial in reducing harmful cholesterol levels and in controlling blood sugar levels
All the best to you,
