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Where did cinnamon spice originate?
Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), the neighbouring Malabar Coast of India, and Myanmar (Burma) and is also cultivated in South America and the West Indies. The spice, consisting of the dried inner bark, is brown in colour and has a delicately fragrant aroma and a warm sweet flavour.
Who was the first to use cinnamon?
The history of cinnamon goes back many centuries: it was first consumed around 2000 BC, where records of its use in ancient Egypt were both culinary and medical.
Why is the history of cinnamon is considered ancient?
Cinnamon is considered to be one of the first traded spices in the ancient world. There are many biblical references to this spice and it is mentioned in the bible by its Hebrew word, kannamon, in Psalms, Proverbs, Ezekiel, and Revelations. The Hebrew bible makes specific reference of this word many times.
What culture is cinnamon from?
Today, this spice is native to the Malabar Coast of India and Sri Lanka. Myanmar, South America and the West Indies also cultivate it on a large scale. In Indonesia, cinnamon is called kayu manis which means “sweet wood”.
How did cinnamon get its name?
Its botanical name derives from the Hebraic and Arabic term amomon, meaning fragrant spice plant. Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon in their embalming process. From their word for cannon, Italians called it canella, meaning "little tube," which aptly describes cinnamon sticks.
Is cinnamon in the Bible?
Exodus 30:22-29 22 The LORD said to Moses, 23 “Take the finest spices: of liquid myrrh 500 shekels, and of sweet-smelling cinnamon half as much, that is, 250, and 250 of aromatic cane, 24 and 500 of cassia, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, and a hin of olive oil.
How did humans discover cinnamon?
Early modern period. During the 1500s, Ferdinand Magellan was searching for spices on behalf of Spain, and in the Philippines found Cinnamomum mindanaense, which was closely related to C. zeylanicum, the cinnamon found in Sri Lanka.
What does cinnamon do to the body?
Cinnamon contains antioxidants, which are a healthy component of the diet that help neutralize free radicals, preventing them from damaging cells in the body. Cinnamaldehyde also has some antibacterial properties and might slow down the growth of cancerous cells.
Did you know facts about cinnamon?
Fun (and useful) facts about cinnamon:Cinnamon doesn't have a sweet taste but does amplify the sweetness in other ingredients.The better quality cinnamons are more breakable (fragile).The average cinnamon tree grows to 60 feet in height.Cinnamon acts as a natural preservative.More items...
How does cinnamon grow in the wild?
When a cinnamon tree is around two years old, cultivators coppice, or cut back, the plant to the size of a stump and cover it with soil. This technique causes it to grow like a bush, with new shoots emerging out of the sides by the following year. It's these shoots that are used to make cinnamon.
Why do Greeks use cinnamon?
Evidence of the importance of cinnamon to the Ancient Greeks can be found at a temple dedicated to Apollo at Milletus where there is an inscription detailing the gift of cinnamon. Ancient Greek writers such as Sappho also extolled the virtues of this spice. It is still important to the culture today.
Who began trading cinnamon?
In the 1500s Portuguese traders came to the island, discovered cinnamon and gained control of trade for a century until the Dutch and then British arrived and monopolised commercial production and the global spice trade for over four centuries.
How did humans discover cinnamon?
Early modern period. During the 1500s, Ferdinand Magellan was searching for spices on behalf of Spain, and in the Philippines found Cinnamomum mindanaense, which was closely related to C. zeylanicum, the cinnamon found in Sri Lanka.
Did ancient Greeks have cinnamon?
In Ancient Greece, cinnamon was a highly prizes spice. Although it is said to have originated with the Egyptians, once the Greeks were exposed to it, they embraced it.
When did cinnamon become popular?
During the 16th century, European explorers went out in search of their own cinnamon to fill the growing demand. Portuguese traders discovered one of the spice's sources in 1518, in Ceylon (what is now Sri Lanka), and the fight over cinnamon began.
What is cinnamon?
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), also called Ceylon cinnamon, is a bushy evergreen tree of the laurel family (Lauraceae) and the spice derived from its...
Where is the cinnamon tree found?
Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, India, and Myanmar. It is also cultivated in South America and the West Indies.
What are the uses of cinnamon?
Cinnamon is used as flavoring in a variety of foods, from confections to curries to beverages, and is popular in bakery goods. The essential oil di...
What plant species are sources for cinnamon?
In addition to Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), other species used as a source for cinnamom include Chinese cassia (Cinnamomum cassia), Vietname...
Where did cinnamon originate?
At the beginning of the 16 th century, Portuguese traders arrived in Ceylon (Sri-Lanka) where this spice was growing and was the largest producer of cinnamon at the time. They took control of the area and started their own monopoly on the spice.
What is the flavor of cinnamon?
The spicy aroma of cinnamon enhances both sweet and savory foods. You will find cinnamon in cuisines from around the world and its bold and distinctive flavor adds depth to many dishes. There are almost endless possibilities for using this spice.
What is the scientific name for cinnamon?
Common Name: Cinnamon. Scientific Name: Cinnamomum Zeylanicum. Other Names: Cassia. Description. Cinnamon is an aromatic spice that comes from the bark of a Southeast Asian tree. The bark is peeled and dried and is often ground into powder, but is also used in rolled strips. It is used in both sweet and savory foods.
Why is cinnamon used in medicine?
Physicians from the middle ages used cinnamon to help treat cold and throat ailments such as coughing, hoarseness and sore throats. Indonesian rafts transported cinnamon on a “cinnamon route” to East Africa, where local traders then carried it north to the Roman market.
How tall does cinnamon grow?
These trees can grow to a height of 66 feet, although most are regularly trimmed and kept as groups of bushes in order to make cultivation of the cinnamon bark easier.
Why is cinnamon important in the Bible?
The Hebrew bible makes specific reference of this word many times. Cinnamon was considered so valuable during this time it was equal in worth to gold and ivory. It was regarded as a suitable gift for Monarchs and for Gods. Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon as part of their embalming rituals.
Is cinnamon a painkiller?
In India, cinnamon is sometimes used as a natural painkiller. It is considered an acceptable type of over-the-counter menstrual medication. The Chinese also use it as a treatment for PMS and as a way to promote regular and easy menstruation.
Where does cinnamon come from?
Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), the neighbouring Malabar Coast of India, and Myanmar (Burma) and is also cultivated in South America and the West Indies.
When did cinnamon become a commodity?
Cinnamon, indigenous to the southwestern forests, became an export commodity in the 14th century, while pepper and other spices increased in export value. Trade in these items was monopolized by the royalty; kings entered into contracts with foreign merchants, fixed prices, and received the revenue.….
What is the essential oil in a cinnamon tree?
Trunk of a cinnamon tree ( Cinnamomum verum ). Cinnamon contains 0.5 to 1 percent essential oil, the principal component of which is cinnamic aldehyde. Get a Britannica Premium subscription and gain access to exclusive content. Subscribe Now.
What is cinnamon used for?
Cinnamon is used to flavour a variety of foods, from confections to curries to beverages, and is popular in bakery goods in many places.
How tall is a cinnamon tree?
Physical description. The cinnamon tree grows in moist well-drained soils and rarely reaches more than 15 metres (49 feet) in height. The thick simple leaves have smooth margins and are usually oval; the veins are roughly parallel to each other. Young leaves are red and mature to a deep green.
How much essential oil is in cinnamon?
Cinnamon contains 0.5 to 1 percent essential oil, the principal component of which is cinnamic aldehyde. Get a Britannica Premium subscription and gain access to exclusive content. Subscribe Now.
Is cinnamon more valuable than gold?
Cinnamon was once more valuable than gold . In Egypt it was sought for embalming and religious practices. In medieval Europe it was used for religious rites and as a flavouring. Later it was the most profitable spice in the Dutch East India Company trade.
Where did cinnamon originate?
Cinnamon Origin and History. Native to Ceylon (Sri Lanka), true cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, dates back in Chinese writings to 2800 B.C. and is still known as kwai in the Cantonese language today. Its botanical name derives from the Hebraic and Arabic term amomon, meaning fragrant spice plant.
What is the origin of cinnamon?
Origin and Historical Uses of Cinnamon. The pungent aroma of cinnamon is unmistakable, usually evoking dreams of hot cinnamon rolls from the oven. Cinnamon was once so highly prized that wars were fought over it, it was used as currency, and it has aphrodisiacal powers .
Why is cinnamon considered a preservative?
The spice was also valued for its preservative qualities for meat due to the phenols which inhibit the bacteria responsible for spoilage, with the added bonus being the strong cinnamon aroma masked the stench of aged meats.
Why was cinnamon used in medicine?
Used by Medieval Physicians. Medieval physicians used cinnamon in medicines to treat coughing, hoarseness, and sore throats. As a sign of remorse, Roman Emperor Nero ordered a year's supply of cinnamon be burnt after he murdered his wife.
When was cinnamon seized?
Seized in the 17th Century. In the 17th century, the Dutch seized the world's largest cinnamon supplier, the island of Ceylon, from the Portuguese, demanding outrageous quotas from the poor laboring Chalia caste.
When did England monopolize Ceylon?
In 1795, England seized Ceylon from the French, who had acquired it from their victory over Holland during the Revolutionary Wars.
Where does cinnamon come from?
The botanical name for true cinnamon, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum originates from the Hebraic and Arabic term amomon, meaning fragrant spice plant. Cinnamon is considered the most sought after spice, grown in Sri Lanka. The highest grade cinnamon is from the Cinnamomum zeylanicum tree, which is indigenous to Sri Lanka.
Where is cinnamon grown in India?
Currently, the majority of the cinnamon cultivation is concentrated on the coastal belt from Negombo to Matara and centrally located in the Kalutara, Ratnapura area.
What was the name of the cigar that the Portuguese landed in Sri Lanka?
When the Portuguese landed in Sri Lanka, they sent back the word that “Taprobane” was just discovered.
What is the influence of Ceylon spices?
Archaeologists have discovered traces of Ceylonese cinnamon in tombs of Egypt; believed to be over 4000 years old. Ancient Sri Lanka traded extensively with the Arabs, Greeks and Romans and has shaped their cultures through the many different uses of Sri Lankan spices.
Does cinnamon need sun?
The cinnamon plant loves the sun and sunshine is a necessity for it to grow in rich abundance. The perfect rainfall is also in order. Yes, they are quite high maintenance. It may be a surprise to some, but it is clear that many civilizations, heritages and cultures have the Ceylon Spice influence.
Is Cassia a spicier spice?
Cassia is generally a dark brown-red hue, rougher in texture and has a spicier taste than the pure Cinnamon.
The Long and Fascinating Cinnamon History
The first written reference to cinnamon spice comes before 3000 BC when its name appears in Chinese writings as a treatment for digestive problems and influenza.
The History of Cinnamon
It shows up in the writings of ancient Greece and Rome and the ancient Egyptians valued it for its preserving qualities, and used it when embalming mummies.
The History of Cinnamon Continued!
At the turn of the 16th century, the Portuguese landed on the island of Ceylon, and brutally laid claim to the world’s only supplier.
Where did spices originate from?
Indian Origins. Spices and herbs such as black pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom have been used by Indians for thousands of years for both culinary and health purposes. Spices indigenous to India (such as cardamom and turmeric) were cultivated as early as the 8th century BC in the gardens of Babylon (2).
Why were spices used in the Roman Empire?
Early on, spices were used as a source of trading. During the ancient Roman Empire, trade routes were established with Arabia. Traders supplied cassia, cinnamon, and other spices and deliberately kept the source of their products secret. The intent was to have a monopoly on the spice trade and the Arabians spun great tales about how they obtained the spices in order to keep their resource value high. They continued to keep the origins secret for several centuries from both ancient Greek and ancient Roman civilizations until about the 1st century AD, when the Roman scholar Pliny made the connection between the Arabian stories and price inflation.
Why are spices and herbs used?
Over the years, spices and herbs were used for medicinal purposes. They were also used as a way to mask unpleasant tastes and odors of food, and later, to keep food fresh (3). Ancient civilizations did not distinguish between those spices and herbs used for flavoring from those used for medicinal purposes.
What are spices used for in the Bible?
From the dawn of biblical times (17th century BC), spices were prized for a wide variety of uses including religious offerings, burial rituals, medicines, trade, and seasoning. Spices are mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible. In the Song of Solomon, several culinary spices are mentioned including cinnamon and saffron (2).
Why did the Egyptians put garlic in their tombs?
Some ancient Egyptians even placed wooden figures of garlic cloves in their tombs to ensure a tasty and wholesome afterlife.
What did the ancient Assyrians use as a vegetable oil?
The ancient Assyrians also used sesame as a vegetable oil. King Merodach-Baladan II (721-710 BC) of Babylonia grew 64 different species of plants in his royal garden. He kept records on how to cultivate many spices and herbs such as cardamom, coriander, garlic, thyme, saffron, and turmeric.
When was cassia first introduced to China?
Other historical evidence suggested that cassia was an important spice in South China when the province Kweilin, meaning "Cassia Forest", was founded around 216 BC. Early on, nutmeg and cloves from Moluccas were brought to China.
Cinnamon Origin and History
- Native to Ceylon (Sri Lanka), true cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, dates back in Chinese writings to 2800 B.C. and is still known as kwai in the Cantonese language today. Its botanical name derives from the Hebraic and Arabic term amomon, meaning fragrant spice plant. Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon in their embalming process. From their word for ...
Used by Medieval Physicians
- Medieval physicians used cinnamon in medicines to treat coughing, hoarseness, and sore throats. As a sign of remorse, Roman Emperor Nero ordered a year's supply of cinnamon be burnt after he murdered his wife. The spice was also valued for its preservative qualities for meat due to the phenols which inhibit the bacteria responsible for spoilage, with the added bonus being the stro…
Seized in The 17th Century
- In the 17th century, the Dutch seized the world's largest cinnamon supplier, the island of Ceylon, from the Portuguese, demanding outrageous quotas from the poor laboring Chalia caste. When the Dutch learned of a source of cinnamon along the coast of India, they bribed and threatened the local king to destroy it all, thus preserving their monopoly on the prized spice. In 1795, Engla…
The Downfall of The Cinnamon Monopoly
- By 1833, the downfall of the cinnamon monopoly had begun when other countries found it could be easily grown in such areas as Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Mauritius, Réunion, and Guyana. Cinnamon is now also grown in South America, the West Indies, and other tropical climates.