They died for the secret of eternal life and happiness

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They died for the secret of eternal life and happiness
They died for the secret of eternal life and happiness
Anonim
wooden head
wooden head

We've had enough of the cold, the snow, the slush, the big coat, we long for the fresh, spring sunshine and airier clothes more and more. As long as the daily average temperature does not climb higher, in our new series we can get to know the spices typical of the winter period

For the first time, we can learn more about cinnamon, an essential spice for apple pie, mulled wine, the Christmas atmosphere and winter flavored teas.

What do we call cinnamon?

Cinnamon is the brownish inner bark stripped of the outer corky layer of the branches of the laurel tree, with a characteristic smell, which takes the form of a roll during drying. Native to South Asia, South China, Burma, India and Sri Lanka, the spice was brought to Egypt and Judea by the Phoenicians. The height of the cinnamon tree reaches 10-13 meters, but during cultivation it is not allowed to grow higher than 3-4 meters. The dried inner bark, which is peeled from the young branches of trees under 3 years old, can be used as a spice. An essential oil is obtained from its leaves, which is the same as the oil obtained from the bark, but has a milder effect.

Even the Greeks…

The Hebrews, Greeks and Romans used it as a spice and perfume, as well as a digestive aid. In Europe, the XVI. Chinese cinnamon (cassia) was known until the 19th century (it is a relative of real cinnamon). Chinese mythology calls it the tree of life: according to a Far Eastern legend, whoever enters Paradise and consumes a little cinnamon will receive eternal life and happiness. For 300 years, the Portuguese, French and English fought with each other for the commercial monopoly of cinnamon. A real spice war was raging, which also required human sacrifices.

Effects

Cinnamon is known to have many medicinal effects. In addition to the already mentioned property of facilitating digestion, its property of increasing circulation, stimulating appetite, and alleviating stomach acid excess may be of interest. In addition, it relieves menstrual pains, lowers blood pressure, cholesterol levels, or even fights against diarrhea. The essential oil obtained from its leaves also contains anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agents. Applied externally, it is also suitable for relieving muscle spasms, joint and nerve pain.

If you use it, the cookie will be delicious with less sugar or even without it. Imitating the effect of insulin, it increases glucose uptake by cells, making it an ideal spice for diabetics. Instead of a dietary supplement, it is recommended to buy it as a spice, so that in addition to the active ingredients of cinnamon, other unwanted substances are not introduced into the body.

It also works as an aphrodisiac, as it contains mood-enhancing and potency-enhancing essential oil. Crusaders once made a love potion from cinnamon, as the tannin in it (in addition to stopping bleeding and diarrhea and reducing menstrual complaints through its antispasmodic effect) enhances sexual performance.

Cinnamon and apple, an ideal pairing

It is an ideal addition to apple delicacies, custards, pies, and of course gingerbread can't be imagined without it. If you want to not only eat, but also drink, make apple tea. To do this, wash, core and, if necessary, peel some beautiful or slightly damaged apples and dice them. Put the apple pieces in a larger pot, pour water, season with cinnamon, cloves and lemon peel. Bring it to a boil, let it simmer for a while until the apple has softened. Then filter and enjoy the aromatic warm drink. You can use the boiled apple as a compote afterwards.

Just be careful!It can cause allergic changes on the skin and mucous membranes, so handle the essential oil with care. The use of cinnamon and its essential oil is not recommended for pregnant women and those under 12 months of age.

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