What to know about Cinnamomum verum (ceylon cinnamon) before using it medicinally

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as Ceylon cinnamon, is a herb renowned for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to regulate blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

As a popular culinary spice, it requires a subtropical climate with high humidity and well-defined dry and wet seasons to thrive, making it a challenging herb to cultivate. From a botanical perspective, Cinnamomum verum is a member of the Lauraceae family, characterized by its evergreen, lance-shaped leaves and small, yellowish flowers that cluster in terminal panicles.

The herb has been referenced in ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal texts, including the Charaka Samhita and the Shennong Ben Cao Jing, where it was valued for its medicinal and spiritual properties.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Cinnamomum verum.

What are the medicinal properties of Cinnamomum verum?

Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, helps with various health issues, including diabetes management, reducing inflammation, and improving blood circulation. It also has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it effective against certain types of bacteria and fungi. Additionally, it has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cell damage.

The active constituents responsible for the medicinal properties of Ceylon cinnamon are cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, and cinnamyl alcohol. These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Cinnamaldehyde, in particular, has been found to have a potent effect on reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.

The bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree is the most commonly used part of the plant for medicinal purposes. The bark is harvested, dried, and ground into a powder, which is then used in a variety of traditional remedies. The inner bark, in particular, is considered to be the most potent part of the plant, due to its high concentration of active constituents.

Improper use of Ceylon cinnamon can lead to side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and stomach upset. In rare cases, excessive consumption of the plant's active constituents can also lead to liver damage or interact with certain medications. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using the plant medicinally.

When using Ceylon cinnamon medicinally, it is essential to take certain precautions. Pregnant women, children, and individuals with certain medical conditions should use the plant with caution or under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, individuals should start with small doses and gradually increase as needed, as excessive consumption can lead to side effects.

What are the horticulural aspects of Cinnamomum verum?

Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, grow well in tropical regions with high humidity and temperatures between 15-25°C. This plant thrives in well-drained acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. Adequate sunlight and water supply are essential for growth.

Proper planting techniques are crucial for Ceylon cinnamon's success. Plant seeds 1-2 cm deep in well-draining seed starting mix. Water gently and maintain high humidity until germination occurs within 2-4 weeks. Transplant seedlings to 10-15 cm containers with acidic potting mix.

Cinnamon harvesting typically occurs 6-8 years after planting, when the stems reach 3-4 meters. Cut the stems at an angle, about 2.5 cm above the nodes, using sharp pruning tools to minimize damage. Harvest the inner bark, known as the laticifer, by scraping it from the stem.

Cinnamomum verum is susceptible to pests such as the scale insect (Coccus hesperidum) and the weevil (Ceratocoris fuscus). Fungal diseases like root rot (Phytophthora cinnamomi) and leaf spot (Cercospora cinnamomi) also commonly affect Ceylon cinnamon, often due to overwatering or poor air circulation.

What are the botanical aspects of Cinnamomum verum?

Cinnamomum verum is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Lauraceae family. It grows up to 15 meters in height with a straight, cylindrical trunk and smooth grey bark. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped, arranged oppositely on the branches. The flowers are small, green, and borne in axillary panicles.

The taxonomical classification of Cinnamomum verum is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Clade: Angiosperms, Clade: Magnoliids, Order: Laurales, Family: Lauraceae, Genus: Cinnamomum, Species: C. verum. This classification places it within the Lauraceae family, which comprises about 2500 species of evergreen trees and shrubs.

Cinnamomum verum has several variants, including Cinnamomum verum var. zeylanicum, which is native to Sri Lanka, and Cinnamomum verum var. genuinum, which is found in other parts of Asia. These variants differ slightly in their leaf shape and size, as well as their bark characteristics.

Cinnamomum verum is native to Sri Lanka and the surrounding islands, where it grows in tropical rainforests and mountainous regions. It has been cultivated in other parts of Asia, including India, Malaysia, and Indonesia, as well as in Central and South America.

The life cycle of Cinnamomum verum consists of juvenile and adult phases. The tree takes about 4-5 years to reach maturity, at which point it begins to produce cones and seeds. The seeds are dispersed by wind and animals, allowing the tree to propagate and spread to new areas. The tree can live for up to 100 years in optimal conditions.

What are the historical aspects of Cinnamomum verum?

Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, is a spice derived from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree, native to Sri Lanka. Historically, it was used as a medicine, perfume, and incense in ancient civilizations, including ancient Egypt, China, and Rome.

Mythologically, Ceylon cinnamon is associated with the goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. In ancient Hindu mythology, the goddess is said to have created the tree and its bark to be used as a sacred offering. Similarly, in ancient Chinese mythology, the cinnamon tree is associated with the phoenix, a symbol of good fortune.

Symbolically, Ceylon cinnamon has been associated with love, loyalty, and fidelity. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was used as a symbol of affection and devotion. The bark was also used to adorn the hair and clothes of the nobility, representing their wealth and status.

The historical texts that mention Ceylon cinnamon include the ancient Chinese medical text "Shennong Ben Cao Jing", which describes its use as a treatment for digestive disorders. The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder also wrote about the spice in his "Naturalis Historia", describing its use as a medicine and perfume.

Historical artifacts that feature Ceylon cinnamon include the ancient Egyptian tomb of Tutankhamun, which contained a cache of cinnamon sticks. The Roman ruins of Pompeii also feature frescoes depicting cinnamon being used as a perfume and incense. The spice was also featured in the decorations of ancient Chinese temples and palaces.