6 Tricks to know if the cinnamon you buy is real or the fake

Surely you know cinnamon, a widely used spice, especially in desserts. For thousands of years, it has been used for different home remedies and, modern science has confirmed the innumerable benefits it possesses.

This spice is obtained from the inner bark of a tree called Cinnamomum. In the past, it was a very valuable, rare and expensive product, but today, cinnamon is quite affordable and easily available.

But what if I told you that much of the cinnamon that is consumed comes from China and is actually false and could be harmful to our body?

How to know if cinnamon is real or fake?

There are real cinnamon and other cheaper varieties that come from completely different species of trees. Some ways to differentiate them are the following:

Place of production

Original cinnamon is produced in countries such as Egypt, Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Brazil or the Caribbean; while the fake one grows in China, Indonesia or Vietnam.

Color and flavor

The cinnamon that we usually find packaged usually has a reddish or dark brown color, and a strong and spicy flavor. However, true cinnamon is usually a lighter color and its flavor, although intense and memorable, is softer and sweeter.

Coumarin

The biggest and most relevant difference is the content of a compound called coumarin. Coumarin is an anticoagulant and its excessive use can cause serious health complications. Authentic Ceylon cinnamon contains approximately 0.017 g / kg, while other types of cinnamon contain between 2.15 and 6.97 g / kg of coumarin.

The daily intake safety limit of this compound is set at 0.1 mg/kg body weight. So the choice of the best cinnamon is crucial.

Health benefits of real cinnamon

Strengthens the bones

Cinnamon strengthens the bones due to the high presence of manganese. It is also a source of calcium, fiber and iron, crucial nutrients for a healthy body. Fiber promotes better digestion, iron increases energy levels and manganese and calcium are essential minerals for healthy and strong bones.

Help the immune system

Cinnamon is a potent antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral, so it can help the immune system protect itself from colds and the flu.

Lowers sugar levels

Cinnamon is well known among diabetics because it is very beneficial and useful for reducing fasting glucose levels. In addition, it improves the response to insulin and promotes healthy blood pressure.

Anti-inflammatory

Small amounts of cinnamon may have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it is known to be a protector against neurodegenerative diseases.

Anti-aging

Although aging is part of nature, there are things we can do in order to prevent it prematurely. Cinnamon can help slow the signs of aging thanks to its potent effects on anti-inflammatory and oxidative compounds.