Cinnamon

Synonyms

. Dalchini

Biological Source

Cinnamon consists of dried inner bark of the shoots of coppiced trees of Cinnamomum zeylancium.

Family

Lauraceae

Geographical Source

. It originated from Sri Lanka and the Malabar coast of India.

. It is also found in Jamaica and Brazil.

Microscopic Characters

. Color - The outer surface is dull yellowish-brown, while the inner surface is dark yellowish-brown.

. Odor - Fragrant

. Taste - Aromatic and sweet followed by a warm sensation.

. Size - About 1m in length & 1cm in diameter.

. Shape - Found in the form of compound quills.

Chemical Constituents

. Cinnamon bark contains volatile oil, tannins (phlorotannins), mucilage, calcium oxalate, starch, and a sweet substance known as mannitol.

. Cinnamon oil contains cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, benzaldehyde, cumin aldehyde, and other terpenes like phellandrene, pinene, cymene, and caryophyllene.

Uses

. The bark is used as a carminative and mild astringent.

. It is also a flavoring agent, stimulant, aromatic, and antiseptic. Commercially, it is used as a spice and condiment and in preparing candy, denitrifies, and perfumes.