Homonym: Cinnamomum verum (Cinnamon)
Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon, is a tree native to Sri Lanka and parts of India. It belongs to the Lauraceae family and is valued for its aromatic bark, which is harvested and dried to produce cinnamon spice. This type of cinnamon is often considered superior due to its delicate flavor and lower coumarin content compared to Cinnamomum cassia, the more common cinnamon found in grocery stores.
The bark of Cinnamomum verum is thin and has a light brown color, with a sweet and complex flavor profile. It is used in various culinary applications, including baking, cooking, and beverages. Additionally, true cinnamon is recognized for its potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a popular choice in both traditional and modern herbal medicine.