Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) is a well-liked spice derived from the bark of the cassia tree. It is usually utilized in cooking and baking for its heat, candy taste and fragrant qualities. Unlike true cinnamon, cassia is extra pungent and incorporates greater ranges of coumarin, which could be dangerous in giant portions. It has been utilized in conventional medication for numerous well being advantages, however its consumption needs to be average. Cassia cinnamon stays a extensively obtainable and reasonably priced choice within the spice market, appreciated for its distinctive style and flexibility.
This article will replicate on the well being advantages of cassia cinnamon and supply insights on methods to use it.
Difference Between Cassia Cinnamon and Ceylon Cinnamon
Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) and Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) are two kinds of cinnamon with distinct traits. Cassia cinnamon, the extra frequent selection, has a stronger, spicier taste and reddish-brown coloration. Studies point out that it incorporates greater ranges of coumarin, which could be dangerous in extra. Ceylon cinnamon, usually known as “true cinnamon,” is milder, sweeter, and has a tan-brown coloration. It has considerably decrease coumadin ranges, making it safer for frequent consumption. Ceylon cinnamon is usually grown in Sri Lanka, whereas cassia is present in China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Understanding the variations helps select the precise kind for culinary or well being functions.
Nutritional Profile of Cassia Cinnamon
100 grams of cassia cinnamon sometimes contains:
- Calories: 247
- Carbohydrates: 80.59 g
- Dietary Fiber: 53.1 g
- Protein: 3.99 g
- Fat: 1.24 g
- Calcium: 1002 mg
- Iron: 8.32 mg
- Magnesium: 60 mg
- Potassium: 431 mg
- Vitamin C: 3.8 mg
- Vitamin Ok: 31.2 mg
When evaluating the dietary content material of Cassia Cinnamon with different spices, it’s essential to notice that spices are sometimes consumed in small portions. However, by way of key vitamins, Cassia Cinnamon stands out. Compared to many different spices, Cassia Cinnamon is an efficient supply of dietary fiber, calcium, iron, and potassium. It additionally incorporates average quantities of protein and a few nutritional vitamins. While the particular dietary profile varies amongst spices, Cassia Cinnamon’s notable nutrient content material makes it a helpful addition to a balanced weight loss program.
Health Benefits of Cassia Cinnamon
1. Has Antioxidant Properties
Inflammation is the physique’s pure response to harm, an infection, or dangerous stimuli. While acute irritation is a crucial protection mechanism, continual irritation can have detrimental results on well being. Cassia cinnamon, containing compounds like cinnamaldehyde with anti-inflammatory properties, could assist scale back irritation. By neutralizing free radicals and modulating inflammatory pathways, it might alleviate sure inflammatory situations.
However, extreme consumption of cassia cinnamon, because of its greater coumarin content material, might be dangerous. Therefore, average use of cassia cinnamon could supply potential well being advantages in managing irritation, however it’s essential to hunt skilled recommendation and keep away from extreme consumption.
2. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Cassia cinnamon has been of curiosity in its potential to affect blood sugar ranges, significantly in people with kind 2 diabetes. Studies have steered that sure compounds in cassia cinnamon could enhance insulin sensitivity, improve glucose uptake by cells, and decrease blood sugar ranges. Cinnamaldehyde, one among its energetic parts, is believed to play a task in these results.
However, it’s important to eat it moderately and seek the advice of with a healthcare skilled for personalised steering, particularly you probably have diabetes or are taking drugs that have an effect on blood sugar ranges.
3. Helps In Cholesterol Management
Cassia cinnamon has been studied for its potential influence on levels of cholesterol, significantly LDL (unhealthy) ldl cholesterol and triglycerides. Some analysis means that sure compounds in cassia cinnamon could assist scale back LDL ldl cholesterol and triglyceride ranges within the blood. While cassia cinnamon reveals promise as a pure treatment for cholesterol administration, it shouldn’t be used as a substitute for medical therapy or prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs. If you’re contemplating utilizing cassia cinnamon for its potential cholesterol-lowering advantages, seek the advice of with a healthcare skilled for acceptable steering and monitoring.
4. Aids Weight Loss and Management
Cassia cinnamon has been explored for its potential in aiding weight reduction because of sure compounds which will affect metabolism and fats breakdown. Some preliminary research have steered that cassia cinnamon might have a optimistic influence on weight administration. However, the proof is proscribed and never enough to assert definitive weight reduction advantages. Incorporating cassia cinnamon as a part of a balanced weight loss program and common train routine could complement total weight reduction efforts, however it shouldn’t be thought of a standalone resolution.
5. Contains Antimicrobial Properties
Cassia cinnamon incorporates antimicrobial compounds that exhibit inhibitory results towards sure micro organism and fungi. One of the first parts liable for these properties is cinnamaldehyde. This compound has been studied for its skill to disrupt the cell membranes of microorganisms, resulting in their inhibition and potential elimination. The antimicrobial properties of cassia cinnamon have made it a well-liked alternative in conventional medication for combatting infections and preserving meals.
6. Supports Smooth Digestion
It has been historically used to assist digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. It incorporates compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, akin to cinnamaldehyde, which can assist soothe irritation within the digestive tract. Additionally, cassia cinnamon has been proven to have antimicrobial results, doubtlessly serving to to fight dangerous micro organism that may result in digestive points. The warming properties of cinnamon may promote wholesome digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes.
7. Strengthens Immunity
Cassia cinnamon incorporates compounds with potential immune-enhancing properties, akin to antioxidants and antimicrobial brokers. Antioxidants assist neutralize free radicals and scale back oxidative stress, which might assist the immune system. Additionally, cassia cinnamon’s antimicrobial results could support in combating infections. However, whereas cassia cinnamon is usually a helpful addition to a balanced weight loss program to assist total well being, it shouldn’t be thought of a standalone treatment for constructing immunity. A wholesome way of life, together with a nutrient-rich weight loss program, common train, sufficient sleep, and correct hygiene, are important for sustaining a powerful immune system.
Summary
Cassia cinnamon has antioxidant properties that assist scale back irritation and assist the immune system. It could support in regulating blood sugar ranges, managing ldl cholesterol, and doubtlessly selling weight reduction. Additionally, cassia cinnamon incorporates antimicrobial compounds, making it helpful for combating infections and supporting easy digestion.
Culinary Uses of Cassia Cinnamon
Cassia cinnamon is a flexible spice with a heat, candy, and barely spicy taste, making it a well-liked ingredient in numerous culinary dishes worldwide. Some frequent culinary makes use of of cassia cinnamon embrace:
- Baked Goods: It is continuously utilized in baking to boost the flavour of muffins, cookies, muffins, and pastries. Cassia cinnamon could be sprinkled on high of baked items or combined into the batter.
- Hot Beverages: It provides a pleasant aroma and style to sizzling drinks like espresso, tea, sizzling chocolate, and mulled wine. A pinch of cassia cinnamon can elevate the flavour of those drinks.
- Desserts: Cassia cinnamon is usually utilized in desserts like rice puddings, custards, ice lotions, and fruit salads so as to add a heat and comforting word.
- Breakfast Dishes: It could be sprinkled on oatmeal, yogurt, or cereal to boost the flavour and supply a aromatic contact.
- Sauces and Chutneys: Cassia cinnamon could be included into candy and savory sauces, glazes, and chutneys so as to add depth and complexity to the flavors.
- Curries and Stews: In some cuisines, cassia cinnamon is utilized in savory dishes, akin to curries and stews, so as to add a heat and fragrant taste.
- Spice Blends: It is a standard ingredient in spice blends like garam masala, pumpkin spice combine, and chai masala.
- Pickles and Preserves: Some pickling recipes and fruit preserves could incorporate cassia cinnamon to supply a novel style.
- Asian and Middle Eastern Cuisine: Cassia cinnamon is usually utilized in Asian and Middle Eastern dishes, akin to Chinese five-spice powder, Indian curries, and Moroccan tagines.
- Meat Rubs: It could be mixed with different spices to create flavorful meat rubs for grilling or roasting.
When utilizing cassia cinnamon in cooking, do not forget that its taste could be potent, so it’s important to make use of it moderately. It’s additionally essential to tell apart between cassia cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon, as they’ve totally different taste profiles, and Ceylon cinnamon is mostly milder and sweeter.
Recipes With Caccia Cinnamon
Cinnamon Tea
INGREDIENTS:
- Water – 1 cup
- Black Tea Leaves – 0.5 tsp
- Cassia Cinnamon Powder – 0.25 tsp
PREPARATION:
- Heat water in a saucepan.
- As the water begins to boil, add within the cinnamon powder and blend.
- Once the water boils, add within the tea leaves and boil for 30 seconds.
- Allow to take a seat for 1-2 minutes after which pressure right into a cup.
- Drink sizzling.
- {Optionally add in a spoonful of natural honey for some sweetness.}
Cinnamon Detox Water
INGREDIENTS:
- Water – 1 cup
- Cassia Cinnamon Powder – 0.5 tsp
PREPARATION:
- Heat water in a pan.
- Once it begins to boil, add within the cinnamon powder, combine nicely and boil for a minute.
- Pour right into a glass and eat whereas sizzling.
Precautions and Side Effects
While cassia cinnamon affords numerous potential well being advantages, it’s important to concentrate on its potential unwanted effects and take crucial precautions:
1. Coumarin Toxicity
Cassia cinnamon incorporates greater ranges of coumarin in comparison with Ceylon cinnamon. Excessive consumption of coumarin can result in liver injury and different hostile results. To decrease the danger, keep away from consuming giant quantities of cassia cinnamon regularly, particularly in complement kind.
2. Allergic Reactions
Some people could also be allergic to cinnamon, resulting in pores and skin irritation, swelling, or respiration difficulties. If you expertise any allergic reactions after consuming cassia cinnamon, discontinue its use and search medical consideration.
3. Gastrointestinal Discomfort
In delicate people, consuming an excessive amount of cassia cinnamon could trigger gastrointestinal discomfort, akin to heartburn, nausea, or diarrhea. Stick to average quantities in your weight loss program to keep away from such points.
4. Interaction with Medications
Cassia cinnamon could work together with sure drugs, together with anticoagulants, antidiabetic medication, and others. It might have an effect on their efficacy or enhance the danger of unwanted effects. If you’re taking any drugs, seek the advice of your healthcare supplier earlier than utilizing cassia cinnamon repeatedly.
5. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant or breastfeeding ladies ought to train warning when utilizing cassia cinnamon, as its security throughout these intervals shouldn’t be well-established. Consult a healthcare skilled earlier than incorporating it into your weight loss program.
6. Blood Sugar Levels
While cassia cinnamon could assist regulate blood sugar ranges, it will possibly additionally decrease them considerably when mixed with diabetes drugs. Careful monitoring of blood sugar ranges is essential you probably have diabetes and are contemplating utilizing cassia cinnamon as a part of your administration plan.
7. Liver Health
Individuals with liver situations or impaired liver operate needs to be cautious with cassia cinnamon because of its coumarin content material. It’s greatest to seek the advice of a healthcare skilled earlier than consuming it repeatedly.
To decrease potential unwanted effects, use cassia cinnamon moderately as a spice in your cooking and keep away from high-dose dietary supplements. If you have got any underlying well being situations or issues, search recommendation from a healthcare skilled earlier than incorporating cassia cinnamon into your weight loss program. Remember to distinguish between cassia cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon, as Ceylon cinnamon has decrease coumarin ranges and is mostly thought of safer for normal consumption.
HealthifyMe Suggestion
Since cinnamon has nice antioxidant results, it makes it a perfect addition to your water or tea so that you could reap the advantages of it to the utmost. Add a pinch of cassia cinnamon powder to your water or tea and even to your oatmeal or porridge.
Conclusion
Cassia Cinnamon holds nice promise as a pure well being complement because of its spectacular array of well being advantages. From its potent antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties to its potential in regulating blood sugar, managing ldl cholesterol, and aiding weight reduction, this spice affords a myriad of optimistic impacts on total well-being. However, warning needs to be exercised in its utilization, adhering to really useful dosages and contemplating particular person well being situations. When included properly right into a balanced weight loss program, Cassia Cinnamon is usually a helpful addition to selling a more healthy way of life.
Disclaimer: The objective of this text is simply to disperse data and lift consciousness. It doesn’t intend to interchange medical recommendation from professionals. For additional data please contact our licensed nutritionists Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are cinnamon and cassia the identical?
Cinnamon and cassia are associated however not the identical. Both come from totally different species of the Cinnamomum genus. Ceylon Cinnamon is “true” cinnamon, whereas Cassia Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) is sometimes called “cassia” and is extra generally present in shops.
Can cassia be used as a substitute of cinnamon?
Yes, cassia can be utilized as an alternative choice to cinnamon in lots of recipes. While the flavors are comparable, cassia tends to be stronger and barely extra bitter, so changes in amount could also be wanted.
What is cassia spice used for?
Cassia spice is used for numerous culinary functions. It provides a heat and candy taste to each candy and savory dishes, akin to curries, stews, desserts, and drinks.
Is cassia bark Dalchini?
Yes, cassia bark is sometimes called “Dalchini” in some areas. In these areas, the time period “cassia” and “Dalchini” could also be used interchangeably to explain the identical spice.
What is the distinction between cassia and Dalchini?
Cassia and Dalchini are sometimes thought of the identical spice, referring to Cassia Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) with its robust, fragrant taste. However, “true” Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is taken into account a milder and sweeter selection in comparison with cassia.
Is cassia cheaper than cinnamon?
Yes, cassia is mostly cheaper than “true” Ceylon Cinnamon, making it extra available and generally utilized in many households and meals industries.
Which is best: cassia or cinnamon?
The alternative between cassia and cinnamon will depend on private choice and the particular recipe. Cassia has a stronger taste, which some folks favor in sure dishes, whereas others could favor the milder style of Ceylon Cinnamon.
Is cassia a fruit?
No, cassia shouldn’t be a fruit. It is obtained from the bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree, whereas the fruit of the tree is used to extract cassia oil.
Is cassia good for pores and skin?
Cassia has numerous conventional makes use of for the pores and skin. Cassia oil is understood for its antimicrobial properties and could also be utilized in skincare merchandise. However, it’s important to make use of it with warning, as it may be irritating to some pores and skin sorts.
Is cassia good for well being?
Cassia has been related to a number of potential well being advantages, together with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, blood sugar regulation, and ldl cholesterol administration results. However, extreme consumption or utilizing it as a complement requires cautious consideration because of its coumarin content material, which can be dangerous in giant quantities.
Research Sources
- Cinnamomum cassia Presl: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6804248/