Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Blume) Nees

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as Ceylon cinnamon or true cinnamon, is a tropical evergreen tree species in the Lauraceae family. It is best known for its aromatic bark, which is used as a spice in cooking and for its medicinal properties. Ceylon cinnamon is considered the “true” cinnamon, as opposed to the more common Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), which is often sold as cinnamon in many parts of the world.
Botanical Details:
• Scientific Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Blume) Nees
• Family: Lauraceae
• Genus: Cinnamomum
• Species: zeylanicum
Common Names:
• English: Ceylon Cinnamon, True Cinnamon, Sri Lanka Cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum
• Malayalam: Karuvappatta-കറുകപ്പട്ട,
• Tamil: கருவா மரம் Karuva Maram
• Synonyms:
• Cinnamomum verum J. Presl
• Cinnamomum ceylanicum (L.) Kuntze
• Cinnamomum citriodorum (Meisn.) Kuntze
Botanical Description:
o Cinnamomum zeylanicum is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 10–15 meters (33–49 feet) in height.
o The bark of the tree is smooth, with greyish-brown to reddish-brown coloration when young. As it matures, the bark becomes more papery and is harvested for use as cinnamon.
o The leaves are glossy, lance-shaped, and have a strong aromatic scent when Uses:
1. Culinary Uses:
o Spice: The most common use of Cinnamomum zeylanicum is in cooking. The bark is dried and ground into a fine powder, or it is sold as whole cinnamon sticks or quills. Ceylon cinnamon is known for its delicate, sweet, and warm flavor, which is less harsh than Cassia cinnamon.
 It is commonly used in desserts, curries, baked goods, and beverages such as chai and hot chocolate.
 The ground cinnamon is also used in spice mixes such as garam masala, pumpkin spice, and apple pie spice.
2. Medicinal Uses:
o Digestive Aid: Cinnamon has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its digestive properties. It helps stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, and combat gas and indigestion.
o Anti-inflammatory: Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and it has been traditionally used to treat arthritis and joint pain.
o Blood Sugar Control: Some studies suggest that cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes. It may improve insulin sensitivity.
o Antioxidant: Ceylon cinnamon contains compounds that have antioxidant properties, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and cellular damage.
o Antibacterial and Antifungal: Cinnamon has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat infections.
3. Aromatherapy:
o Cinnamon essential oil is used in aromatherapy for its warm, spicy scent. It is believed to have mood-lifting, stress-relieving, and energizing effects. It is also used in massage oils and diffusers.
o Cinnamon oil is sometimes added to bath products for its fragrant and soothing properties.
4. Cosmetic Uses:
o Cinnamon oil and cinnamon extract are sometimes used in skin care products, including creams, lotions, and scrubs, due to their antibacterial properties. It is also used to stimulate blood circulation and is believed to improve skin tone.
5. Preservative:
o Due to its antimicrobial properties, cinnamon has traditionally been used as a preservative in various cultures, particularly in pickles and meat preservation.
6. Flavored Drinks:
o Ceylon cinnamon is commonly used in making flavored teas, cinnamon water, and hot drinks, such as cinnamon coffee or cinnamon cider.