Natural Origins blog

Cinnamon - Cinnamomum aromaticum / Cinnamonum loureiroi

Written by Nadine Bromberger | March 31, 2022

Cinnamon is an aromatic plant substance and is one of the most consumed spices in the world based on its numerous advantages: its enchanting fragrance, its flavourful taste and its therapeutic virtues. Cinnamon belongs to the Lauraceae family, and Cinnamomum aromaticum / Cinnamonum loureiroi is obtained from the inner bark of the tropical cinnamon tree with aromas reminiscent of winter and Christmas. The etymology of the word cinnamon, from the Latin canna, means reeds.

 

Mainly produced in China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Madagascar, this ancestral spice has been used from the earliest times for its digestive properties and is part of the compositions of numerous medicinal preparations. Cinnamon has been part of coveted business throughout history and its delicate production, in the form of rolled bark tubes or ground, is costly.

 

 

Active properties and a precious aroma

 

The pharmacological properties of cinnamon, already known by former shamans, are still used today in nutrition. Cinnamaldehyde, the main compound responsible for the unique aroma of cinnamon, is a volatile phenolic compound. Cassia cinnamon has a higher content of cinnamaldehyde (95% of its oil) giving it a stronger flavour than Ceylan cinnamon. Its antioxydant power is associated with tonic, digestive, antiseptic and stimulating properties of cinnamyl acetate and phenylpropanoid derivatives. Rich in fiber, manganese and iron, cinnamon improves tonicity, fights against tiredness and contributes to good digestive comfort. Cinnamon bark actives also enable maintaining good cholesterol and glucose levels.


Cinnamon is found in many culinary preparations in all cultures. This spice provides flavourful notes to savoury dishes, pastries, liqueurs, and beverages. In essential oil, stick or powder form, cinnamon is widely used in food and perfumes for its wonderful aroma.

 

 

Our cinnamon sourcing: a short, responsible, organic and For Life supply chain

 

Natural Origins is developing its cinnamon supply chain in Vietnam with a company specialised in plant matter sourcing. This collaboration enables guaranteeing high quality cinnamon to agro-food industrial and nutraceutical professionals.


By working directly with producers, Natural Origins aims to promote a joint progression with stable revenue and sustainable partnerships for local populations, while respecting the environment.


Creating a local cooperative has enabled 200 farmers, 50 employees and 300 seasonal workers to produce 400 MT of cinnamon on 500 hectares of organic certified land. Our partners have obtained the For Life certification guaranteeing this responsible, solidarity and fair approach.

 

 

Quality sourcing

 

During our cinnamon tree sourcing, we chose an isolated region; a preserved cultivation area located in the Northeast of Vietnam. Based on the remarkable climate and geographic conditions where our plants grow, the quality of our cinnamon is outstanding.


In addition, controlling the entire supply chain from the harvest to drying bark conditions ensures comprehensive traceability of the cinnamon. As such, our procurement supply chain is secured from the crops to the delivery of our raw material.


Our cinnamon is harvested during rainy season on branches and suckers. Regular pruning of the trees promotes their growth. After harvest, the inner cinnamon bark, called "liber" are kept to be cut into strips. The bark strips are then sun dried. It’s a that moment that the bark curls into rolls known as sticks.


Natural Origins also meets all specifications and offers you an array of ingredients: a variety of cuts and different bark thicknesses, crushed or in powder form. Our references are also available in organic grade and with For Life certification. Cinnamon is a natural product highlighted for its exceptional virtues and is an ideal ingredient for your health formulas.

 

 

 

Please feel free to contact us for any additional requests for this reference.

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