Herbal tea · Sri Lanka
Cinnamon
Pure cinnamon bark tea with sweet, spicy warmth and natural blood sugar balancing properties.
How to brew
| Leaf | Water | Temperature | Time | Infusions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western | 2 g | 250 ml | 100°C / 212°F | 12 min | 2 |
About this tea
Cinnamon, one of humanity's oldest spices, once held value exceeding gold. Ancient Egyptians used it for embalming, while Romans burned it at funerals. Two main types exist: Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon, Cinnamomum verum) from Sri Lanka, and Cassia (Chinese cinnamon, C. cassia) from China. Ceylon is sweeter and more delicate; Cassia stronger with higher coumarin content. For regular tea consumption, Ceylon is preferable.
The inner bark is harvested from young shoots, then dried into the characteristic curled quills. Ceylon cinnamon forms multiple thin layers, while Cassia creates single thick pieces. Quality shows tight rolls with sweet, complex aroma. Ground cinnamon loses potency quickly - whole bark stays fresh longer. The essential oil cinnamaldehyde provides both flavor and medicinal properties.
The flavor profile is warmly complex: initial sweetness followed by gentle spice that builds gradually. Ceylon offers subtle sweetness with citrus hints; Cassia provides bold, hot sweetness. There's natural sweetness without sugar, plus woody depth. The warming sensation spreads from mouth through body. The amber to red-brown liquor releases sweet-spicy aroma that fills rooms.
Brewing recommendations: Break 1 cinnamon stick into pieces per cup or use 1/2 teaspoon ground (2g). Simmer stick pieces 12 minutes for full extraction or steep ground 10 minutes with boiling water (100°C/212°F). Combines beautifully with ginger, cardamom, or black tea. Traditional Mexican canela uses Ceylon cinnamon with piloncillo sugar.
Excellent for blood sugar management - studies show improved insulin sensitivity. The warming properties boost circulation and may reduce inflammation. Antimicrobial effects help fight colds. Perfect winter warmer or digestive aid after meals. Use Ceylon for daily consumption due to lower coumarin. Avoid therapeutic doses during pregnancy. Pairs wonderfully with apple, chocolate, or coffee flavors. Also used in savory dishes across cultures. The sweet spiciness satisfies sugar cravings naturally.
Caffeine, in context
Per 250 ml cup, brewed as directed.
Flavor profile
- sweet spice
- warming
- woody
- aromatic
Health benefits
- blood sugar support
- anti-inflammatory
- warming
- digestion
Pairs wonderfully with
- apple desserts
- honey
- winter treats
- oatmeal
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Frequently asked questions
Can you re-steep Cinnamon?
Yes — Cinnamon gives 2 good infusions. Start at 720 seconds and add a little time to each round.
How much caffeine is in Cinnamon?
0 mg per 250 ml cup — Caffeine-free.
What water temperature does Cinnamon need?
100°C / 212°F. Hotter water pulls out bitterness; cooler water under-extracts the leaf.
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