Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamom

 

Spice tree

                                                                               

 

Kannèl, Cannelle, cannelier, pyé kannèl, cinnamom, spice, canela, palo de canela, Ceylan cinnamon, cannelle de Ceylan …

 

Family

 

LAURACEAE

 

Origine

 

Sri Lanka (Ceylan)

 

Description 

 

In the ancient world, cinnamon was more precious than gold and was regarded as a gift fit for monarchs.

 

It is an evergreen tree of the Laurel family, it can grow up to 30m. The rolled bark is allowed to dry, forming a scroll or quill. The quills are cut into 2 to 3 inch sticks or ground into powder. It have to be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. 

 

Habitat

 

Cultivated and naturalized

 

Propagation

Seeds

 

Culture and care

This is a big tropical tree, it grows slowly and prefer a sandy soil. (Alt. 100-500m).

Blooming from February to March.

Uses

 

 

- Medicinal use

 

 

For diarrhea and vomiting: Decoction of 3g of bark stick in 1/2L water. Boil 10min in a covered recipient. Let cool, filter and drink 1 cup twice a day (Source: TRAMIL).

 

The average daily dose for an adult is 2-4g.

 

Toxicity

 

 

It is not recommended to use cinnamon by oral goose in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Do not give to young children, under of 8 years. Do not use more than 3 jours.

 

- Ornemental use

 

 

Beautiful indoor plant. Can be planted as a single plant or in a hedge.

 

- Alimentary use

 

 

Cinnamon is used as a flavoring agent in soft drinks, teas, and bakery products such as cereals, granola  bars, puddings, pastries, cakes, pies, and donuts. Cinnamon is often added to oatmeal, toast, candy, hot chocolate, tea or coffee, and in chewing gums. Cinnamon is also a common ingredient in many Indian curries. It is also an ingredient in many medicinal formulas to improve the taste and aroma of the medicine. 

 

- Other uses

 

 

Essential oil of Cinnamon is used in the perfumery industry. It is also anti fungal

 

Etymology

 

Cinnamomum comes from greek « Kinnamomom, kinein », which means “rolled up”, like the cinnamon stick. Verum means “true”. Ceylon, comes from the ancient name of Sri Lanka (provenance)