The History of Cinnamon Sticks: From Ancient Medicine to Modern Spice Racks
The Ancient Origins of Cinnamon
Long before cinnamon sticks graced spice racks around the world, they were prized treasures of ancient civilizations. As early as 2000 BCE, cinnamon was traded across the Arabian Peninsula and into Africa and Europe, where it was considered more precious than gold.
Cinnamon in Ancient Egypt and Asia
Egyptians used cinnamon in embalming rituals and as incense in temples. Meanwhile, in Sri Lanka and India, it was cherished in Ayurvedic medicine for its warming and digestive properties. Ancient Chinese texts also mention cinnamon as part of traditional herbal formulations.
Trade Routes and Cinnamon Wars
The demand for cinnamon grew rapidly during the Middle Ages. Arab traders, who were the primary middlemen, kept the true source of cinnamon a secret from European buyers. By the 16th century, Portuguese and Dutch explorers had discovered that the most coveted cinnamon came from the island of Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka).
Colonial Struggles
Cinnamon’s value led to bloody battles and trade monopolies. The Portuguese controlled cinnamon exports from Ceylon until the Dutch ousted them in the 17th century. Eventually, the British took control in the 1800s, expanding cinnamon cultivation to other colonies.
Ceylon vs. Cassia: What’s the Difference?
Today, there are two main types of cinnamon sticks sold commercially:
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Cassia Cinnamon: Dark, thick, and rolled from a single piece of bark. Cheaper and more common in Western supermarkets.
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Ceylon Cinnamon ("True Cinnamon"): Thin, light brown quills made of multiple soft layers of bark. It has a delicate, sweet aroma and is lower in coumarin, making it a healthier choice.
Explore our Ceylon Cinnamon Quills – Premium True Cinnamon from Sri Lanka
Organic Cinnamon Quills: Pure and Potent
Organic cinnamon sticks are cultivated without synthetic pesticides or chemicals, preserving the purity of the spice and protecting soil health. At SpiceBloom, we source our organic quills in small, frequent batches for maximum freshness and shelf life.
Buy Organic Cinnamon Quills Online – Certified Organic and Packed in NZ
Cinnamon in Modern Cuisine
From cinnamon rolls and mulled wine to biryani and chai, cinnamon quills have become an essential part of global cuisine. In Western kitchens, they are synonymous with comfort and warmth, while in Eastern cultures, they add depth and complexity to savory and sweet dishes alike.
Popular Uses:
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Infusing teas, ciders, and stews
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Grinding fresh for baking
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Enhancing flavor in Indian and Middle Eastern recipes
Medicinal and Holistic Benefits
Cinnamon is still celebrated for its health benefits:
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May help regulate blood sugar
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Contains anti-inflammatory compounds
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Used in traditional medicine to support digestion and circulation
Whether you're seeking wellness or flavor, cinnamon quills deliver both.
Final Thoughts: A Spice With Centuries of Stories
From sacred temples to your tea cup, cinnamon sticks carry a powerful legacy. When you choose premium varieties like Ceylon or certified organic quills, you're not just buying a spice — you're participating in a tradition that spans thousands of years.
Ready to experience the difference?