1. Introduction

Cinnamon powder is made by grinding the dried inner bark of the cinnamon tree. It is one of the oldest known spices, used widely in cooking, medicine, and cosmetics.

Two main types of cinnamon:

• Ceylon Cinnamon: Sweet, mild, and expensive – called “true cinnamon”
• Cassia Cinnamon: Stronger, spicier, and cheaper – more common worldwide

2. Health Benefits

✅ Regulates blood sugar
✅ Reduces inflammation and joint pain
✅ Powerful antioxidant
✅ Improves memory and brain function
✅ Natural antibacterial and antifungal
✅ Promotes heart health and circulation

3. Culinary & Other Uses

• Cooking: Cakes, sweets, porridges, rice dishes, stews
• Beverages: Cinnamon tea, masala chai, spiced coffee
• Medicine: Treats colds, indigestion, fever
• Cosmetic & fragrance industry

4. Homemade Preparation

1. Break cinnamon sticks
2. Grind them in a spice grinder
3. Store in a sealed container away from moisture and light

5. Storage

• Airtight glass jar
• Cool, dry, dark place
• Shelf life: 6–12 months

6. Safety Notes

⚠️ Excess Cassia cinnamon may harm the liver (due to coumarin)
⚠️ Pregnant women should use with caution
⚠️ May interact with blood-thinning medications

7. Global Trade

• Top producers: Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Indonesia, China, Vietnam
• Exports: Mostly to EU, USA, and Middle East
• Iran imports cinnamon, repackages it, and uses it in culinary and herbal industries