Cinnamomum cassia

The origin of cinnamon was a highly-guarded secret of the Arabs, who first brought cinnamon to the West. They concocted a number of magical myths to hide the location of the crops and enhance the mystique of this spice fit for a king.

Cinnamon sticks have a brown to reddish brown color with a sweet, spicy flavor.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Use cinnamon sticks as swizzle sticks for hot drinks like cider, cocoa or hot buttered rum, or simmer the sticks with soy milk and honey for a deliciously comforting treat.

Pickled beets, apple cider and hot tea are all users of stick cinnamon.

Add stick cinnamon at the beginning of cooking, this will allow it to release its oils into the dish. Grind stick cinnamon as you need it to use as a powder, this will let you sprinkle the flavor on at any point in the cooking process.