Mantecados Gamito Hnos. S.L.

Cinnamon, an aromatic and delightful spice, has been valued for its culinary and medicinal properties for millennia. It comes from the inner bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus, native to Southeast Asia. The earliest references to cinnamon date back over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt, where it was used in embalming and as an ingredient in perfumes and sacred oils.

In ancient China and India, cinnamon was commonly used in traditional medicine, as well as being an important spice in Indian cuisine. For the ancient Greeks and Romans, cinnamon was one of the most valuable spices traded along the Silk Road. It was used in gastronomy, medicine, and religious rituals.

During the Middle Ages, cinnamon was a symbol of wealth and status, and it was used in the cuisine of the upper classes. By the Renaissance, it had become one of the most important economic drivers, with Portugal gaining a monopoly on the trade after capturing Ceylon, one of the main producers of cinnamon. Over time, control passed from the Portuguese to the Dutch and then to the British. In the 19th century, the demand for cinnamon grew exponentially, and new plantations were established in other parts of the world, such as the Dutch East Indies and the Seychelles. Today, cinnamon is cultivated in several countries, with Sri Lanka, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and Madagascar being the leading producers.

Today, cinnamon is widely used in cooking around the world, in both sweet and savory dishes, as well as in beverages and desserts. In addition to its culinary uses, cinnamon is valued for its health benefits. Recent studies suggest that cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health.

Cinnamon is also used in aromatherapy and beauty products for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Its essential oil is popular in the making of perfumes, soaps, and candles.

Cinnamon, with its rich history and numerous uses, remains one of the most cherished and valuable spices in the world, giving our products that distinctive and special flavor. From its ancient origins in Southeast Asia to its place in modern cuisine and medicine, cinnamon has proven to be a versatile and beneficial spice. By enjoying cinnamon in our recipes and products, we connect with a millennia-old tradition that continues to evolve and thrive.