In Grenada it’s simply called “spice”. Cinnamon is one of the many “jewel spices” of Pure Grenada. Grenada’s cinnamon is highly valuable because it is True Cinnamon, originating from Ceylon (Sri Lanka) from the Cinnamomum zeylanicum tree. It is much more healthy and valuable than the commonly available Cassia.

CASSIA VERSUS TRUE-CINNAMON:

Cassia, also referred to loosely as “cinnamon”,  grows in countries like China and Viet Nam, while True Cinnamon is found in Sri Lanka, India, Brazil and the Caribbean (notably Grenada). Cinnamon purchased in a conventional grocery store or supermarket is most likely Cassia. True Cinnamon like ours is more likely found in wholefood stores and online stores like www.grenadamarket.com.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Cassia has a darker reddish-brown colour, the sticks are hard and thick. True Cinnamon like Grenada’s is lighter in colour, the sticks are softer in texture.

WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Let’s start with your health and wellness! Grenadian cinnamon is lower in Coumarin – a naturally occurring chemical in cinnamon that acts a blood thinner and is believed can cause (reversible) liver issues if ingested in high doses. 

It is strongly agreed that the low occurrence of Coumarin in true Cinnamon such as Grenada’s makes its safer and healthier that Cassia, especially for sensitive persons. 

Even with Cassia, it would take high doses over a consistent period to cause harm, however all researches indicate that Grenadian Cinnamon (True Cinnamon) is of better quality, contains less Coumarin and is much safer and better than Cassia.

CULINARY USES:

Used to flavor many hot beverages, a definite staple in hot Chocolate, coffee and hot Cocoa (Cacao). Also a key ingredient in delectable porridges like Corn Meal and Oatmeal. Prominent in Caribbean Rum Punch and other cocktails.

Cinnamon is a key ingredient in baking; Apple Pies, Cinnamon rolls and sticks, in Rice pudding, Coquito (Puerto Rico) and more.

MEDICINAL & OTHER USES:

This marvelous natural product is a blood regulator and also a mood enhancer, commonly used in Aroma therapy. It is said to boost cognition and mental clarity, and can be taken with just hot water to settle an upset stomach.

Cinnamon makes an effective deodorizer for masking and removing food smells…. place a pot of boiling water and a few sticks of cinnamon on a burner next to foods like frying fish to neutralize the food smells.

SUMMARY – BENEFITS OF CINNAMON:

• Lowers blood sugar levels, improves ability to respond to insulin.
• Lowers cholesterol.
• Supports healthy blood clotting (avoid if on blood thinners).
• Fights bacteria and fungus.
• Boosts memory and brain activity.
• Improves digestion, curbs flatulence.

FDA allows both Cassia and true cinnamon to be labelled as simply “cinnamon” so look out for that next time you shop cinnamon.

This information is based on our research and believed to be accurate, it does not constitute medical or dietary advice. Please check your physician if in doubt about this or any other spice or herb that we promote.