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Cinnamon Quills Organic |
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Cinnamon Quills Organic
CINNAMON QUILLS - Organic
Cinnamomum zeylanicum
History and Folklore
Hair raising tales were told about the origin of cinnamon in the days of antiquity. The Arab traders, who held the monopoly in those days, claimed that cinnamon sticks were harvested from the nests of huge phoenix birds. However, the trees that hosted their nests grew on such steep slopes or on the edge of a cliff, that it was impossible to reach them. To overcome the problem the Arabs claimed to use a trick, luring the birds with large hunks of meat. When they lumbered back to their nests with their lure, the nests, unable to bear the weight, would collapse, thus spilling the cinnamon on the ground where the Arabs could more easily pick it. Many such stories were told about the origins of precious spices and magical plants; it added to their mystique and justified the exorbitant prices. Nevertheless, the ancients valued spices highly, and thus did not flinch at their cost. The sweetly fragrant Cinnamon was used as an ingredient of incense, embalming oil, consecration oil, perfume, as well as for the more mundane purpose of flavouring food and wine. Later, when the true origin of cinnamon trees was discovered and wars were fought over spice monopolies, supplies were controlled artificially burning excess stocks in order to keep prices up. Only once the monopoly was broken did precious spices become affordable and thus commonplace.
Medicinal Uses:
Cinnamon, the best of which comes from Sri Lanka, has a long history of use. In the traditional medicine of Sri Lanka Cinnamon is used as an astringent, tonic, stimulant and carminative. It eases digestion, cramps and nausea, but could also be of service to treat a paralysed tongue. In western medicine it has long been used as a flu remedy, taken regularly at the very beginning of feeling run down and like one might have caught something, to prevent a full outbreak. Externally, it is applied as a stimulant to ease headaches, neuralgia and rheumatism with its warming and comforting effect. There are even reports that claim it to be of benefit in treating certain types of cancer.
CAUTION
Cinnamon has a sweet flavour, but is in fact quite a hot spice. It can be stimulating to the uterus and should thus be avoided during pregnancy. Although cinnamon bark is generally quite well tolerated, some people develop an allergy to it, especially to the oil. In India, Cinnamon is sometimes used as a contraceptive.
Magical Uses:
The practitioner can make ample use of Cinnamon's stimulating power. It gives an extra boost of energy to all magical work and focuses the mind on the magical intention. It is excellent to use for cleanses and to purify or consecrate the ceremonial or ritual space. It can open psychic channels and may be useful for divination. It is also often included in love philtres and potions to attract lovers. As an aphrodisiac aroma it can be used in sex magic or tantric practices. Cinnamon is often regarded as a 'good luck' plant that may help to clear energy blockages and thus may help the practitioner to connect with the cosmic flow of his inner resourcefulness, prosperity and riches.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
*not applicable to trade prices.
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