Cinnamon and honey, two common supermarket staples found in the baking aisle, aren't the run-of-the-mill ingredients they seem to be. Each has a fascinating history, can make a significant contribution to your culinary endeavors, and may even benefit your health. However, cinnamon and honey can sometimes be dangerous. With the right information, you can take full advantage of these foods without risking your health or that of your family.
History
Both cinnamon and honey are rich in historical significance. Cinnamon, reports Chef James Ehler of FoodReference.com, receives several mentions in the Bible and was listed among the Queen of Sheba's gifts to Solomon. Cinnamon was also used in love potions in the Roman empire. Honey has an equally rich history; One of the most mentioned foods in literature, honey, according to chef Alton Brown, was humanity's first sweetener. A natural antiseptic, it was also used to treat wounds until WWI.
Culinary Use
The importance of cinnamon and honey aren't limited to the past; cinnamon and honey continue to play a strong role in contemporary cuisine. Cinnamon is one of the most commonly used spices in the United States, and equally suited to savory dishes such as rich curries as well as sweet preparations like cinnamon rolls. Honey, though more suited to sweet than savory, also has proven culinary potential; Variations in the nectar source create many different honey flavors, while honey can also help baked goods retain moisture longer than those made with white sugar.
Nutritional Use
Both honey and cinnamon have nutritional and dietary value. Honey, especially dark-colored buckwheat honey, is exceptionally rich in disease-fighting antioxidants. Cinnamon, a strongly aromatic spice, adds flavor without adding calories and can thus help you maintain a healthy weight. Though more research needs to be performed, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports there is preliminary evidence that cinnamon can help diabetics control their blood sugar levels.
Considerations
Though both honey and cinnamon are good for you, there are some considerations. Honey is high in calories, so limit yourself to small amounts. Never give honey to babies under a year old; their undeveloped digestive systems are not acidic enough to kill pathogens naturally present in honey and can contract botulism from honey. Also, though cinnamon and honey are not major allergens, allergic reactions to both are possible. Seek medical care immediately if you have reason to believe you are having an allergic reaction to any food.
References
- Food Reference: Cinnamon
- Epicurious.com: Cinnamon
- "I'm Just Here for the Food"; Alton Brown; 2002
- Epicurious.com: Honey
- "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies"; Selene Yeager; 2006
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