The name of Ceylon Cinnamon originates from the Hebraic and Arabic term ‘amomon’, which translates to ‘fragrant spice plant’. Cinnamon has a rich history, featured in ancient texts and was highly prized by civilisations such as the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans dating back to around 2,800 BC.

Explorers like Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus sought this fragrant spice, shaping global trade routes. As the demand for Ceylon Cinnamon emerged, European powers competed for control of its production and trade. The spice’s popularity drove explorers to the shores of Sri Lanka, previously known as Ceylon, with ambitions of monopolising this aromatic resource.

There are numerous varieties of cinnamon, cultivated in various countries around the world. Ceylon Cinnamon, scientifically known as Cinnamomum zeylanicum, hails from the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, where it thrives in the humid climate and well-drained soils. The Ceylon Cinnamon tree is a small evergreen that can grow up to 10 metres tall, featuring slender branches and glossy, dark green leaves. Its prized inner bark is harvested, which curls into delicate, fragile quills as it dries, offering a sweet and complex flavour profile that sets it apart from the more common cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) from China. Other notable cinnamon varieties include Vietnamese or Saigon cinnamon (Cinnamomum loureirii) from Vietnam and Indonesian or Korintje cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii). While Ceylon Cinnamon is cherished for its unique qualities, it remains a rarer find than the more widely available cassia varieties.

What is the difference between Ceylon Cinnamon and Cassia?

Ceylon Cinnamon boasts a light brown hue and a soft texture, while Cassia has a strong taste. Ceylon Cinnamon commonly referred to as ‘True Cinnamon’ is often praised as superior due to its lower coumarin content and refined flavour. Coumarin is an aromatic chemical compound associated with hepatotoxic and carcinogenic properties. This distinction makes Ceylon Cinnamon a safer option, minimising the risk of potential illnesses linked to higher coumarin levels found in Cassia.

The legendary status of Ceylon Cinnamon not only highlights its significance in trade history, but also marks its impact on culinary traditions worldwide. Its versatility makes it a cherished ingredient in diverse recipes, from Middle Eastern dishes to Western baked goods.

👉🏻 Learn more about Dilmah Ceylon Cinnamon

👉🏻 Make your order today: Shop Now