Cinnamon tea: the infusion that warms my winter and takes care of my health

If there is a drink that combines simplicity, aroma and a touch of warmth, it is cinnamon tea. In the colder months, it has become my favorite choice to accompany a moment of rest. It is light, has a spicy touch that is not overwhelming and, best of all, its natural sweetness makes it perfectly balanced.

I must tell you that I am not a fan of infusions (I am a coffee person), but this infusion has been a revelation : unlike other infusions, it does not have a very strong aroma, so I drink it very comfortably and without any problems. In addition, I drink it on days when I feel bloated, and as if by magic my intestines deflate in a few minutes . In addition, you will know that the comfort provided by a hot drink is really pleasant, and it couldn't be easier to prepare!

Cinnamon infusion: Benefits, variations and an easy recipe

Benefits of cinnamon infusion

Cinnamon is much more than just an aromatic spice. Personally, I often add it to my recipes because I love its flavour, but it has some of the most beneficial properties, which are transferred to this infusion that we are dealing with today in the easiest way - in the form of an infusion, some of its main benefits include:

• Regulating blood sugar levels: Studies suggest that cinnamon may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, making it interesting for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. And it helps me not to feel so hungry and avoid snacking between meals!
• Rich in antioxidants: Contains polyphenols that help fight free radicals, promoting cellular protection.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: As I mentioned, it can help reduce inflammation in the body and contribute to general well-being. The reason I take it is mainly because of inflammation of the intestines after eating certain foods that cause inflammation, but in other inflammatory processes it can contribute to a faster recovery.
• Antibacterial and antifungal effects: Regular consumption could help fight certain harmful microorganisms (although I am not going to go into medical issues, that is entering the field of other specialists).
• Digestion support: Cinnamon can relieve digestive discomfort and promote a healthy gut.

It is important to mention that these benefits are associated with Ceylon cinnamon , known as "true cinnamon." Although any type of cinnamon can be used to prepare the infusion, if you plan to consume it frequently, it is better to opt for the Ceylon variety, which has lower amounts of coumarin, a compound that in excess could be harmful.

Easy homemade cinnamon infusion recipe

You can find Cinnamon Infusions in herbalists and commercial stores, but I think this is the most ridiculously easy recipe I have left on the blog, and I strongly recommend that you make it at home before buying it.

Making cinnamon tea at home is very simple and requires only a couple of ingredients. Here is the basic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cinnamon stick (preferably Ceylon cinnamon)
• 1 cup of water (use the cup you are going to use as a measuring cup)

Preparation:

1. In a small saucepan, place the water and the cinnamon stick. Cover the saucepan to prevent the water from evaporating*.
2. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes. This time allows the cinnamon to release all its flavor and properties.
3. Remove from heat and let sit for 5-10 minutes to intensify the flavor while it cools slightly.
4. Strain the liquid into a mug and enjoy hot.

Tips

• If you're looking for an even quicker method, you can boil the water separately, pour it over two cinnamon sticks in a cup, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• *Apart from preventing evaporation, covering the pot helps to retain heat better, heating the water much more quickly and saving energy and time. We always recommend using the lids!

Variations of cinnamon infusion

One of the things I like most about cinnamon tea is that it is so versatile. You can adapt it to suit your mood or preferences. Here are some ideas to give it a different touch:

1. Sweeter: Add a little honey, sugar or maple syrup to enhance its natural sweetness.
2. Creamy: Add a splash of whole milk, vegetable drink or cream for a smoother texture.
3. Spicier: Add a couple of cloves , a cardamom pod or a slice of fresh ginger to intensify the flavor.
4. Refreshing and citrusy: Add a few thin slices of orange or lemon while boiling the cinnamon.
5. With apple: add some thin slices of apple when boiling, to provide its unique flavor (which combines very well with cinnamon) and sweetness.
6. With coffee or black tea: For a caffeinated version, add a black tea bag or a splash of coffee to the infusion.
7. Cold: Prepare the infusion in advance and store it in the fridge. Serve it with ice for a refreshing version (in this case, I recommend serving it in the Romantic Candy pitcher , it works great for adding ice and chilling it without watering down the infusion).

Although I usually drink the infusion as is the basic recipe (water and cinnamon), some of my favorite variations are: with apple (its sweetness and touch of cinnamon is delicious), with a little clove and a splash of oat milk, and with lemon and a little honey.

Enjoy the moment

For me, and not being a fan of infusions, cinnamon infusion is much more than just a hot drink. It is a moment to stop, enjoy its aroma and comfort yourself with its warmth. Whether it is alone, with milk, spiced with a touch of clove or sweet, this drink always has something special to offer. I hope you are encouraged to prepare it, and find your favorite version.

If you want to enjoy its benefits on a daily basis, remember to opt for Ceylon cinnamon to ensure that you get all its properties in the healthiest way. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Cheers to you in every cup! And although it is served in a cup, I feel like adding a toast to this discovery: cinnamon tea... Cheers!