Orange & cinnamon spiced infusion: a heart-warming recipe

A timeless classic of the winter season, orange and cinnamon herbal tea is also appreciated at other times of the year for its properties and distinctive taste. From the enveloping steam that rises from the cup when the infusion is hot to the contrast between the citrus and spicy flavors, this herbal tea is not just a hot drink but a true natural remedy: here’s how to prepare it in the classic version and in a mouthwatering key, as well as what its benefits are.

The ritual of winter: why love orange and cinnamon herbal tea

Just by mentioning ” orange and cinnamon herbal tea,” the imagination flies to scenes of comforting evenings on the couch in front of a movie or a good book with a cup of hot brew in your hands. Not surprisingly, this drink is definitely considered as a true “winter ritual” to slow down and indulge in a moment of well-being.

However, there are many reasons to love orange and cinnamon herbal tea, and they are not just about the winter season: here are some reasons to love this brew.

A scent that smells of home and well-being

In addition to its taste, cinnamon and orange herbal tea is also inevitably known for its unmistakable aroma, which immediately succeeds in giving a feeling of well-being. Not to be underestimated, therefore, is the aromatherapy associated with this drink, due to both the cinnamon and the essential oils released from the orange peel, which positively influence the mood, with a relaxing effect.

Difference between orange and cinnamon tea and natural infusion

But are orange and cinnamon infusion and orange and cinnamon tea the same thing? No, and the difference is found merely in the composition. In fact, while the base of the infusion is water, in the second drink it is necessary to use tea, which contains theine and caffeine. In this sense, the infusion comes across as free of excitants and is definitely more suitable in a wellness ritual.

Moreover, making a natural brew with fresh, unprocessed ingredients is clearly preferable to using commercially available preparations, both in terms of taste but especially in terms of benefits.

Orange and cinnamon herbal tea recipe: how to prepare it at home

Ingredients

For 1 250-mL cup:

Untreated orange

Donna Fina

1 fruit

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Water

220 ml

Cinnamon stick

1/2 stick

Step-by-step procedure

Here is the step-by-step procedure for homemade orange and cinnamon herbal tea recipe:

1. The first step involves washing the orange and removing the peel with a peeler;
2. Once the orange peel has been removed, cut the citrus in half and squeeze it. Be sure to strain the juice through a strainer to avoid seeds and pulp residue in the herbal tea;
3. In a saucepan, put water and bring to a boil;
4. When it reaches a boil, turn off the heat and steep the cinnamon stick, orange juice and orange zest for 5 to 8 minutes;
5. After the time has elapsed, you can enjoy your drink.

Secrets and practical tips

Among the most important tips for having a perfect orange and cinnamon herbal tea is definitely to discard the albedo when cutting the orange peel. Be careful to take out only the colored part, leaving the white part, the albedo, as it has a bitter taste.

In addition, it is advisable that the temperature of the water for letting the orange juice and zest boil should not exceed 90°C in order to preserve the vitamin C. Likewise, it is suggested to cover the container where the infusion is made so that the essential oils do not evaporate.

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Tips for a perfect herbal tea: from choosing oranges to infusion time

Which variety of orange to choose?

Since this is a recipe with few ingredients, it is essential to choose the best ones to use. As for oranges, the best variety to prefer is the Tarocco orange, a blood orange that contains more anthocyanins, which are good for health and have a distinctive taste, in both the Ippolito and Lempso varieties.

Orange is also a good alternative Navel, a blond variety that has a sweeter and less intense flavor. In general, you can use any variety you prefer for this recipe: what remains crucial is to make sure you choose untreated oranges, since the peel will also be used. In this way, you will have the assurance that you are not taking chemicals harmful to health used in some cultivation methods.

Storage of dried peels

A useful tip, may be to dry orange peels and store them in jars, so that you always have them ready for when you feel like a natural infusion. Drying can be done in a low-temperature oven or on the radiator.

Follow these steps for oven drying:

• Take the colored part of the peel (flavedo) from untreated oranges;
  Arrange the peels on a baking sheet without overlapping them and bake at 50-60°C in fan mode for about 2-3 hours;
• Keep the oven door slightly ajar with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape and prevent the peels from cooking;
• The peels are ready when they are hard, brittle, and break with a touch instead of bending;
• Let them cool completely in the open air and store them in an airtight glass jar away from light and heat.

Orange and cinnamon herbal tea: health benefits and properties

Immune defenses and vitamin C from Sicilian citrus fruits

As anticipated, orange and cinnamon herbal tea has several benefits for our body. Without a doubt, vitamin C should be mentioned, which is useful for the immune system along with the flavonoids contained in Sicilian citrus fruits. In particular, the vitamin mentioned is also great for skin health and for dealing with seasonal ailments.

In addition, oranges are allies of cardiovascular health, thanks to the fiber and potassium contained within them, and they have digestive and cleansing properties for the body, promoting the elimination of waste and toxins.

Cinnamon: an aid to digestion and metabolism

Cinnamon is also good for our health: in particular, this spice has antiseptic properties and can regulate blood sugar levels, thus helping to control blood sugar. It is also a useful food for digestion, especially when taken together with orange.

Finally, mention should also be made of cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties, its ability to stimulate circulation, and its usefulness against infections and seasonal ailments.

Here is a handy summary table on the nutritional and caloric values for one cup of orange and cinnamon herbal tea (250 ml with juice and zest of one orange and one cinnamon stick):

Orange and cinnamon herbal tea: when to drink it

But when is it recommended to drink orange and cinnamon herbal tea? Although orange and cinnamon herbal tea is a great health drink for most people, there are small precautions to follow to maximize the benefits and avoid discomfort.

The ideal time: from wellness after meals to evening relaxation

Due to the digestive properties of cinnamon and citrus essential oils, the best time to drink orange and cinnamon infusion is definitely after main meals. This can reduce the sense of bloating and help digestive processes, leaving you with a feeling of lightness.

Since it is naturally caffeine-free, it is also great to drink before bedtime, especially in winter when it can be considered a true pre-sleep warming cuddle. Herbal tea has a muscle-relaxing effect that prepares the body for nighttime rest without interfering with the sleep cycle.

Finally, cinnamon and orange herbal tea can also be drunk in the morning on an empty stomach to help metabolism due to the boost from the spice.

Contraindications and warnings: when it is best to avoid it

Despite the many benefits of orange and cinnamon herbal tea, it is important to pay attention to some specific cases:

• Acidity and reflux: for those suffering from gastritis or reflux, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid the fact that the acidity of orange, although less than other citrus fruits, can stimulate gastric secretion;
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: cinnamon, in high doses, can stimulate uterine contractions. Drinking a cup once in a while is safe, but it is always good to consult your doctor;
• Drug interactions: cinnamon contains coumarin, a substance that may interfere with anticoagulant or diabetes-controlling drugs, as it naturally lowers blood sugar;
• Allergies: always make sure the orange peel is edible and unprocessed to avoid waxes, preservatives or other chemicals. Also, if you are allergic to orange and cinnamon, this drink is clearly to be avoided.