Cinnamon Tea & Decoction: All You Should Know + Recipes

When we hear cinnamon tea, we immediately feel a sense of warmth and peace. Since ancient times, people in different parts of the world have used cinnamon to flavor food and drinks, as well as to maintain health. The popularity of cinnamon tea is increasing day by day because this plant is an organic plant with medical properties like anti-inflammation, increases energy, aids digestion, and even regulates blood sugar.

In this article, we will explore the origin of cinnamon, types, health benefits, and its uses in traditional medicine.

Where Is the Origin of Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a herb and spice that comes from the inner bark of Cinnamomum plant. It is one of the oldest spices used by humans. The oldest sources indicate that cinnamon originated in South and Southeast Asia, especially in Sri Lanka, India, and China. In ancient Egypt, cinnamon was valued and even used as a royal gift. In ancient Greece, this plant was used to treat digestive problems and boost energy.

Today, cinnamon is grown all over the world, but Sri Lanka still produces one of the best and highest quality varieties of cinnamon, named Ceylon Cinnamon.

Different Types Of Cinnamon

Let’s explore the most famous and common types of cinnamon widely seen in the market and used in every household.

#1 Ceylon Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon is also known as True Cinnamon. It has a milder taste, lighter color, and a more delicate aroma. Its coumarin content is very low, making it perfect for daily consumption.

#2 Cassia Cinnamon

Cassia cinnamon is more common and cheaper in most countries. It has a pungent taste and is darker in color, making it a great base herb for many herbal teas. It has a higher coumarin content, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation to prevent potential side effects.

#3 Saigon Cinnamon

A type of cassia, but with a stronger aroma and higher antioxidant content. Great for people who like their cinnamon spicier and sweeter.

#4 Korintje Cinnamon

The most common type of cinnamon on the American market. It has a warm and slightly sweet flavor and is very popular for desserts.

What Are the Health Benefits of Cinnamon Tea?

Cinnamon is one of the herbs that has been scientifically researched. Some of its most important benefits include the following:

Helps regulate blood sugar: Research shows that the compounds in cinnamon improve cellular sensitivity to insulin. Drinking cinnamon tea helps people with insulin resistance.
Reduces inflammation: Cinnamon has rich and powerful antioxidants such as polyphenols. These compounds reduce mild to moderate inflammation effectively.
Aids digestion: In traditional and modern medicine, cinnamon is recommended to reduce bloating, stomach heaviness, and aid digestion.
Increases energy and relieves fatigue: The smell of cinnamon increases alertness, and drinking its herbal tea or decoction, increases the body’s energy.
Antimicrobial effects: Cinnamon reduces the growth of some bacteria and fungi. For this reason, its herbal tea is great during the cold season to prevent sore throats.

Cinnamon Uses in Traditional Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Holistic Health Movement, cinnamon is used to warm the body, improve blood circulation, and reduce coldness. In Ayurveda, cinnamon is useful for regulating the Kapha & Vata doshas and helps improve digestion and increase the body’s natural heat.

In Persian medicine, cinnamon has a warm and dry nature and is usually prescribed to treat or reduce bloating, strengthen the stomach, increase energy, and reduce headaches. Cinnamon is a powerful herb, but it should be consumed in moderation, especially for people with high blood pressure or liver problems.

How to Brew Classic Cinnamon Tea?

Brewing a cup of cinnamon tea the classic way is very easy. All you need is

One cinnamon stick or one teaspoon of coarse cinnamon powder
One glass of water
Honey or lemon juice (depends on your taste)

Here’s how to brew classic cinnamon tea.

Boil the water in a teapot.
Add the cinnamon stick or powder and let it simmer for 10 minutes on low heat.
Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Add a little honey or lemon juice if desired.

How to Brew Cinnamon Decoction?

If you want to benefit from all the medical properties and health benefits of cinnamon, decoction may be a good way. To brew cinnamon decoction, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cinnamon sticks broken to small pieces
One and a half cups of water

Although I don’t drink cinnamon decoction that often, I do have a great recipe, the same my grandmother used to brew cinnamon decoction as a remedy for cold and sore throat.

Add the water and cinnamon sticks to a small kettle.
Simmer over low heat for 20–30 minutes until at least half or 2/3rd of the water is evaporated.
Strain the thick brown liquid and drink it while it’s still hot.

This is a stronger version of the tea and is used when the body needs more energy, a quick warm-up, or for medical purposes. Keep in mind that cinnamon decoction is very strong and potent. Therefore, don’t drink more than a cup per day.

Conclusion

Cinnamon tea and cinnamon decoction are both some of the easiest and most practical herbal drinks to make part of your daily routine. Cinnamon has a fascinating history and comes in a variety of flavors, so there’s a recipe for every taste. In addition to its delicious aroma and flavor, the benefits of cinnamon, such as helping to regulate blood sugar, reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting energy, have made this ancient herb popular again.

Although cinnamon is a natural and relatively safe herb, it should always be used in moderation, especially if you’re taking cassia cinnamon or have a specific medical condition. However, adding it to your daily routine is a fragrant, warming, and soothing experience. Just try this tea or decoction once and see how it can make your day feel better.