Cinnamon is the dried bark of the perennial tree C.zeylanicum of the Lauraceae family. True cinnamon is native to Cinnamon is originally grown wild in the central hill country of
Cinnamon bark is largely available in the form of quills and making quills is unique to . Quills are made by rolling the peeled bark and joining several of them together to get a pipe-like structure of the required length.
Cinnamon is mostly used in cooking and baking. Cinnamon is a versatile spice that can be added to any food item such as salads, confectioneries, beverages, soups, stews, and sauces. Cinnamon drink made by immersing pieces of bark in hot water is popular among Latin American countries. Cinnamon-flavored tea is becoming popular.
HEALTH BENEFITS
is the main chemical ingredient in cinnamon leaf oil and is present in cinnamon bark oil. However, there are hundreds of minor chemical ingredients which give characteristic flavor and aroma to true cinnamon.
Cinnamon has been used for medicinal purposes and has been known as a healing herb since it is mentioned in botanical books that date back to 2700 B.C. In , It had been used medicinally for colds and flu as well as for problems of the digestive system. Recently,
It has been studied for its ability to boost brain power, reduce blood clotting, and its healing effects on the heart and colon. Recent studies have proved its ability to control type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels and reducing blood cholesterol levels.
In traditional society, cinnamon is said to have been used to relieve digestive upset, congestion, menstrual problems, stiff joints, and muscles. It has said to been used as an anti-inflammatory agent and as a pain reliever for arthritis patients. Some studies had shown that cinnamon helps to cure urinary tract infections and to fight tooth decay and gum disease.
Typical values per 100g:
Energy 217.00 kcal 907.93 k
Another spice native to Ceylon, where it was an integral part of the national cuisine long before the introduction of chilies from the New World, black pepper is made from the unripe berries of the pepper vine. It is probably the world s most versatile and popular spice. black pepper is especially high in piperine, peppers active ingredient, making it unusually flavorful and pungent.
BENEFITS OF CONSUMING BLACK PEPPER
Just a pinch of black pepper when added to any food preparation can enhance its flavor. It is a spice that is known to offer many health benefits. It helps to promote weight loss and even aids in digestion.
It is believed that this amazing spice prevents cancer as black pepper detoxifies the body, and cleanses the intestine and stomach. Black pepper releases hydrochloric acid in the stomach which helps in cleaning the intestines.
It prevents constipation and helps to combat the occurrence of the common cold. Black pepper is used for combating skin exfoliation, and skin deformation and helps to keep wrinkles at bay. It is used to combat dandruff, helps in restoring hair growth, and makes the hair shiny.
Typical values per 100g:
Energy 307.30 kcal 1285.74 kj