Cinnamon Tea: Ultimate Guide to Benefits, Recipes & Brewing Tips

What is cinnamon tea?

The allure and aroma of cinnamon tea

There’s something magical about the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon tea wafting through your kitchen. This simple brew transforms ordinary water into a comforting drink that’s been cherished for centuries. But cinnamon tea isn’t just about the cozy vibes—it packs real health benefits that might surprise you.

The journey of cinnamon: from ancient spice to beloved brew

Cinnamon has been treasured since ancient times. Egyptian pharaohs considered it more precious than gold. Arab traders kept its source secret for centuries, spinning tales of giant birds collecting it from mountain cliffs.

Today, people around the globe sip cinnamon tea for its warming properties and health perks. In Sri Lanka, families pass down traditional recipes using Ceylon cinnamon sticks. Chinese medicine practitioners have used cassia cinnamon for digestive issues for thousands of years. Mexican cafes serve cinnamon tea with honey as a natural remedy for upset stomachs.

Did You Know? The word “cinnamon” comes from the Greek word “kinnamomon,” meaning sweet wood. Ancient Romans valued it so highly that Emperor Nero burned a year’s supply at his wife’s funeral.

Understanding the source: it’s all about the bark!

Here’s what many people don’t know: cinnamon comes from tree bark. Farmers harvest the inner bark of evergreen cinnamon trees during rainy season when it’s easier to peel. When this inner bark dries, it naturally curls into those familiar stick shapes.

The key compound that gives cinnamon its signature taste and many health benefits is cinnamaldehyde. This aromatic aldehyde makes up 50-70% of Ceylon cinnamon’s essential oil content.

Ground cinnamon is simply these dried bark pieces ground into powder. But here’s the catch—not all cinnamon is created equal, and this difference can dramatically impact your health.

The great cinnamon divide: Ceylon (“true”) vs. cassia cinnamon for tea

Why the type of cinnamon matters IMMENSELY for your tea

Most people grab any cinnamon at the store without realizing there are different types. This choice can make or break your tea experience—and your health. The key difference lies in a compound called coumarin.

Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): the gentle champion

Ceylon cinnamon, also called “true cinnamon,” grows mainly in Sri Lanka’s coastal regions. Its flavor is milder and sweeter than other types, with subtle citrus notes that make it perfect for delicate teas.

The bark appears lighter in color and breaks apart easily when you touch it. Look for multiple thin layers that you can separate with your fingers—this is a key identifier of genuine Ceylon cinnamon.

But here’s the real game-changer: Ceylon cinnamon contains very little coumarin (only 0.004%), a compound that can harm your liver in large amounts. This makes Ceylon the safer choice if you plan to drink cinnamon tea regularly.

Cassia cinnamon: the strong and spicy option

Cassia cinnamon includes Chinese, Saigon, and Korintje varieties. You’ll find this type in most grocery stores because it’s cheaper to produce and has a longer shelf life.

It has a stronger, spicier kick that some people prefer for baking and strong-flavored teas. The bark is thicker and harder, usually coming in single-layer pieces that are difficult to break by hand.

However, cassia contains much higher levels of coumarin (0.31-6.97%). While occasional use is fine for most people, drinking large amounts of cassia cinnamon tea daily could pose health risks, especially liver damage.

Quality assessment: how to identify premium cinnamon

Visual inspection:

• Ceylon: Light brown, thin, papery layers that crumble easily
• Cassia: Dark reddish-brown, thick, hard single pieces

Smell test:

• Ceylon: Sweet, delicate aroma with floral notes
• Cassia: Strong, spicy, almost burning scent

Taste test:

• Ceylon: Sweet with mild heat
• Cassia: Intense heat that can numb your tongue

Price reality check:

• If it’s very cheap, it’s probably cassia
• Quality Ceylon cinnamon costs 3-5 times more than cassia

Quick Tip: Look for labels that specifically say “Ceylon” or “Cinnamomum verum.” Terms like “ground cinnamon” or just “cinnamon” usually mean cassia.

Nutritional profile: what’s actually in your cup

Nutritional breakdown (per 8 oz cup)

Bioactive compounds

• Cinnamaldehyde: The primary active compound responsible for most health benefits and the characteristic smell.
• Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants including procyanidin, catechin, and epicatechin.
• Cinnamic acid: Provides anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Eugenol: Contributes to the warming sensation and has numbing properties.

Science-backed health benefits with evidence levels

Loaded with powerful antioxidants: your body’s defense squad

Think of antioxidants as your body’s cleanup crew. They fight harmful molecules called free radicals that can damage your cells over time. Cinnamon ranks among the top antioxidant-rich spices, scoring higher than many berries and vegetables on the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) scale.

Research Evidence: A 2005 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found cinnamon had the highest antioxidant activity among 26 spices tested. The polyphenols in cinnamon work around the clock to protect your cells from oxidative stress.

Anti-inflammatory properties: cooling internal fire

Chronic inflammation is like a slow-burning fire in your body. It contributes to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and accelerated aging. Think of it as your immune system stuck in overdrive, attacking healthy tissues.

Research Evidence: A 2015 study with 115 participants found that taking cinnamon extract for 12 weeks significantly reduced inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

Real-World Application: Regular cinnamon tea consumption may help cool this inflammatory response, though you shouldn’t expect dramatic changes from tea alone.

Blood sugar regulation: your metabolic ally

This is where cinnamon gets really exciting for people concerned about diabetes or metabolic health. Research suggests cinnamon works through multiple pathways:

• Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Cinnamon may help your cells respond better to insulin. Think of insulin as a key that unlocks your cells so glucose can enter and provide energy. Cinnamon appears to make this key work more efficiently.
• Slower Carb Digestion: Some studies suggest cinnamon can slow the breakdown of carbohydrates in your digestive tract, leading to smaller blood sugar spikes after meals.

Research Evidence: A 2019 meta-analysis of 18 studies involving 1,480 participants found that cinnamon supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels by an average of 24.6 mg/dL.

Important Medical Disclaimer: If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar closely when adding cinnamon tea to your routine. Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor. Cinnamon tea supports healthy blood sugar but isn’t a replacement for proper medical care.

Heart health support: protecting your cardiovascular system

Your heart might benefit from that daily cup of cinnamon tea through several mechanisms:

• Cholesterol Management: Studies suggest cinnamon may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while potentially increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.
• Blood Pressure: Some research indicates mild blood pressure-lowering effects, though results are mixed.

Research Evidence: A 2020 systematic review found that cinnamon supplementation reduced total cholesterol by 15.6 mg/dL and LDL cholesterol by 9.4 mg/dL on average.

Practical Application: While promising, these effects are modest. Cinnamon tea works best as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle including regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Boosting brain function & neuroprotection

Early research hints that cinnamon might help protect your brain as you age, though most studies are still in animal models:

• Alzheimer’s Research: Test-tube studies show cinnamon extracts may prevent the formation of tau tangles and amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Parkinson’s Studies: Animal research suggests cinnamon might help protect dopamine-producing neurons and improve motor function.

Current Status: While promising, human studies are needed before making strong claims about brain benefits.

Fighting bacteria and fungi: nature’s antimicrobial arsenal

Cinnamon has impressive antimicrobial properties that work against various pathogens:

• Bacterial Activity: Research shows effectiveness against E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and other common bacteria.
• Fungal Fighting: Studies demonstrate activity against Candida albicans and other yeasts.
• Oral Health: The antimicrobial action may help reduce cavity-causing bacteria and freshen breath naturally.

Practical Use: Some people use cooled cinnamon tea as a natural mouth rinse, though it shouldn’t replace regular dental hygiene.

Weight management support: a gentle metabolic boost

Cinnamon’s potential weight management benefits work through several pathways:

• Thermogenesis: Some studies suggest cinnamon has mild thermogenic properties, potentially increasing calorie burn.
• Appetite Control: By helping stabilize blood sugar, cinnamon tea might reduce sugar cravings and afternoon energy crashes.
• Fat Storage: Animal studies suggest cinnamon may influence how the body stores fat, though human evidence is limited.

Reality Check: Don’t expect cinnamon tea to melt away pounds. It may provide modest support as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

Relief from menstrual discomfort: traditional wisdom meets modern science

Many women find cinnamon tea helpful for menstrual issues:

• Pain Relief: The anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce cramping intensity.
• Circulation: Traditional medicine suggests cinnamon promotes healthy blood flow during menstruation.

Research Evidence: A 2015 study found that cinnamon reduced menstrual pain severity in young women, though more research is needed.

Dosage guidelines and safety parameters

Recommended daily intake by health goal

Conversion chart: sticks to ground cinnamon

Quick Tip: Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase. Your taste preferences and body’s response will guide the right amount for you.

How to make the perfect cup: complete brewing guide

Recipe quick reference table

The classic hot water method (recommended)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups filtered water
• 1-2 Ceylon cinnamon sticks (about 3 inches each)
• Optional: honey, lemon, or other natural sweeteners

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Bring water to a rolling boil in a small saucepan or kettle.
2. Add cinnamon sticks and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. The water should turn a lovely golden-brown color.
4. Remove from heat and let it steep for another 5 minutes with the lid on to preserve volatile oils.
5. Remove cinnamon sticks (save them for reuse!) and pour into your favorite mug.
6. Add sweetener if desired after the tea cools slightly to preserve beneficial compounds in honey.

Visual cues for perfect tea:

• Light golden: Mild, sweet flavor
• Rich amber: Balanced taste with noticeable spice
• Deep brown: Strong, intense cinnamon flavor

Ground cinnamon method (when you’re in a hurry)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground Ceylon cinnamon
• Fine mesh strainer or coffee filter

Instructions:

1. Boil water in a saucepan.
2. Whisk in ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. Simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent settling.
4. Strain immediately through fine mesh strainer or coffee filter to remove sediment.
5. Serve while hot to prevent further settling.

Pro Tip: Add ground cinnamon to a tea ball or cheesecloth sachet to make straining easier.

Cold brew method (perfect for hot weather)

Ingredients:

• 4 cups room temperature water
• 2-3 Ceylon cinnamon sticks
• Large jar or pitcher

Instructions:

1. Combine water and cinnamon sticks in a large jar.
2. Cover and refrigerate for 4-8 hours.
3. Strain out cinnamon sticks and serve over ice.
4. Add fresh mint or citrus for extra refreshment.

Benefits: Smoother, less bitter flavor with all the health benefits.

French press method (for tea enthusiasts)

Instructions:

1. Add cinnamon sticks to French press.
2. Pour hot water (not quite boiling, around 200°F).
3. Steep for 12-15 minutes without pressing.
4. Press down slowly and serve immediately.

Advantage: Easy to control strength and no need for separate straining.

Advanced brewing tips

Water temperature matters:

• Boiling water: Extracts maximum compounds but can make tea bitter
• 200°F water: Gentler extraction, smoother taste
• Cold water: Slowest extraction, mildest flavor

Timing for different goals:

• 5-8 minutes: Light flavor, minimal therapeutic compounds
• 10-15 minutes: Balanced flavor and health benefits
• 15-20 minutes: Maximum extraction, stronger taste

Storage tips:

• Fresh tea: Best consumed immediately
• Refrigerated: Keeps for 3-4 days
• Frozen: Can be frozen in ice cube trays for iced tea

Delicious variations: flavor pairings that work

Cinnamon ginger tea (digestive powerhouse)

Ingredients:

• Base cinnamon tea recipe
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced thin
• Optional honey

Method: Add ginger slices with cinnamon sticks during simmering. This combination is excellent for nausea, digestive upset, and cold symptoms.

Health boost: Ginger adds anti-nausea and additional anti-inflammatory compounds.

Cinnamon lemon tea (vitamin C boost)

Ingredients:

• Base cinnamon tea recipe
• Juice of 1/2 fresh lemon
• Lemon zest (optional)

Method: Add lemon juice to finished tea while warm, not boiling. The citrus brightens the flavor and adds immune-supporting vitamin C.

Perfect for: Morning energy boost or when fighting off illness.

Cinnamon apple tea (autumn in a cup)

Ingredients:

• Base cinnamon tea recipe
• 2-3 thin apple slices
• Pinch of nutmeg

Method: Add apple slices during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This creates a naturally sweet, seasonal drink.

Sweetness level: Often sweet enough without added sweeteners.

Golden cinnamon turmeric tea (anti-inflammatory supreme)

Ingredients:

• Base cinnamon tea recipe
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Pinch of black pepper
• Coconut milk (optional)

Method: Whisk turmeric and pepper into finished cinnamon tea. Add coconut milk for creaminess.

Health benefits: Combines cinnamon’s blood sugar benefits with turmeric’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

Cinnamon mint tea (refreshing and soothing)

Ingredients:

• Base cinnamon tea recipe
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• Ice (for iced version)

Method: Add mint leaves during the last 2 minutes of steeping, or muddle them in the bottom of your cup.

Best served: Hot in winter, iced in summer.

Recipe cards for quick reference

Morning energy blend:

• 1 cinnamon stick + 1 tsp fresh ginger + lemon juice
• Steep 12 minutes, add honey if needed

Evening relaxation:

• 2 cinnamon sticks + 4 cardamom pods + warm milk
• Simmer 15 minutes, strain and enjoy

Digestive support:

• 1 cinnamon stick + 1 tsp fennel seeds + mint leaves
• Perfect after heavy meals

Potential side effects and critical safety information

The coumarin risk: understanding the real danger

Coumarin is a naturally occurring compound that can damage your liver in high doses. Here’s what you need to know:

Safe daily limits:

• European Food Safety Authority: 0.1 mg per kg of body weight
• For 150 lb person: Maximum 7 mg coumarin daily
• For 200 lb person: Maximum 9 mg coumarin daily

Coumarin content reality check:

• 1 tsp cassia cinnamon powder: 5-12 mg coumarin
• 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon powder: 0.004 mg coumarin
• 1 cassia cinnamon stick: 2-4 mg coumarin
• 1 Ceylon cinnamon stick: Negligible amounts

This means: You could exceed safe coumarin limits with just one teaspoon of cassia cinnamon daily, but you’d need massive amounts of Ceylon cinnamon to reach concerning levels.

Comprehensive medication interactions table

Detailed contraindications by medical condition

Diabetes management:

• Risk: Cinnamon may amplify diabetes medication effects
• Symptoms to watch: Dizziness, shakiness, sweating, confusion
• Action: Check blood sugar more frequently, adjust medication with doctor’s guidance
• Safe approach: Start with 1/2 cup weak tea daily

Liver disease:

• Risk: Coumarin toxicity more likely with compromised liver function
• Recommendation: Avoid cassia completely, limit Ceylon to 1 cup daily
• Monitoring: Regular liver function tests if consuming regularly

Blood disorders:

• Risk: Cinnamon may affect clotting
• Conditions of concern: Hemophilia, Von Willebrand disease, recent surgery
• Recommendation: Consult hematologist before regular use

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• Food amounts: Generally safe (like cinnamon in baking)
• Medicinal amounts: Not recommended (multiple cups daily)
• Concern: Potential uterine stimulation
• Safe guideline: Limit to 1 cup of mild tea occasionally

Allergic reactions: recognition and response

Common symptoms:

• Mouth sores or burning sensation
• Skin rashes, hives, or eczema flare-ups
• Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
• Digestive upset or nausea

Severe reactions (rare):

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Severe swelling
• Action: Seek immediate medical attention

Testing for sensitivity:

1. Start with a small sip of weak tea
2. Wait 2 hours and observe for reactions
3. Gradually increase amount over several days
4. Stop immediately if any symptoms appear

Children and cinnamon tea safety

Age guidelines:

• Under 2 years: Not recommended
• Ages 2-5: Very weak tea, 1/4 cup maximum
• Ages 6-12: Limit to 1/2 cup daily
• Teenagers: Adult guidelines apply

Special considerations:

• Children are more sensitive to coumarin
• Always use Ceylon cinnamon for children
• Monitor for mouth irritation
• Make tea milder than adult preferences

Troubleshooting common problems

Quality issues and solutions

Problem: Cinnamon sticks don’t seem fresh
Signs: Faded color, weak smell, brittle texture
Solution: Store in airtight container, buy from high-turnover stores

Problem: Ground cinnamon clumps in tea
Solution: Mix with small amount of cold water first, then add to hot tea

Problem: Tea tastes like bark or wood
Cause: Low-quality cinnamon or contaminated product
Solution: Source from reputable suppliers, avoid extremely cheap options

Shopping guide: finding quality cinnamon

Where to buy premium cinnamon

Online specialty retailers:

• Mountain Rose Herbs (organic Ceylon)
• Penzeys Spices (variety of types)
• The Spice House (small-batch imports)
• Starwest Botanicals (bulk options)

Local options:

• Health food stores (often carry Ceylon)
• International markets (especially Sri Lankan or Indian)
• Spice specialty shops
• Some Whole Foods locations

What to avoid:

• Generic grocery store “cinnamon” (usually cassia)
• Extremely cheap options (likely old or low quality)
• Products without country of origin listed
• Cinnamon that looks very dark or uniform (processed)

Price reality check

Ceylon cinnamon sticks:

• Fair price: $15-25 per pound
• Premium organic: $25-35 per pound
• Bargain alert: Under $10/lb likely isn’t Ceylon

Ground Ceylon:

• Fair price: $12-20 per pound
• Small quantities: $3-5 per ounce

Red flags:

• “Ceylon” cinnamon under $8/lb
• No country of origin specified
• Sold only in tiny, expensive containers

Storage for maximum freshness

Cinnamon sticks:

• Airtight container in cool, dry place
• Away from direct light and heat
• Properly stored: 2-3 years
• Signs of aging: Fading color, weak aroma

Ground cinnamon:

• Sealed container, preferably glass
• Refrigerate in humid climates
• Use within 1-2 years for best potency
• Replace if color fades or smell weakens

Tea storage:

• Brewed tea: Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Don’t leave at room temperature over 2 hours
• Freeze in ice cube trays for quick iced tea

Advanced tips and techniques

Creating custom blends

Warming winter blend:

• 2 parts cinnamon stick
• 1 part dried ginger
• 1/2 part cardamom pods
• Perfect for cold days

Digestive support blend:

• 2 parts cinnamon
• 1 part fennel seeds
• 1 part chamomile flowers
• Ideal after heavy meals

Blood sugar support blend:

• 3 parts Ceylon cinnamon
• 1 part fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 part bitter melon (if available)
• Use under medical supervision

Batch preparation methods

Concentrate method:

1. Simmer 1 cup cinnamon sticks in 8 cups water for 30 minutes
2. Strain and store concentrate in refrigerator
3. Dilute 1:1 with hot water when serving
4. Keeps for one week

Tea bag preparation:

1. Fill empty tea bags with broken cinnamon pieces
2. Add complementary spices if desired
3. Seal and store in airtight container
4. Use like regular tea bags

Seasonal adaptations

Summer refreshers:

• Cold brew with mint and cucumber
• Freeze tea in popsicle molds
• Mix with sparkling water for fizzy drinks

Winter warmers:

• Add warming spices like cloves and nutmeg
• Combine with warm plant milk
• Create hot toddy with a splash of apple cider

Cultural context and traditional uses

Global cinnamon tea traditions

Sri Lankan tradition:

• Cinnamon tea served to guests as welcome drink
• Often combined with black tea for afternoon service
• Used traditionally for digestive complaints

Mexican horchata de canela:

• Cinnamon tea base with rice milk
• Sweetened with condensed milk
• Served as comfort drink for children

Middle Eastern preparation:

• Cinnamon tea with cardamom and rose water
• Served in small glasses with dates
• Traditional digestive after rich meals

Chinese medicine applications:

• Used for “warming” the digestive system
• Combined with ginger for circulation
• Prescribed for certain types of arthritis

Sustainability and fair trade considerations

Environmental impact:

• Ceylon cinnamon farms often use sustainable practices
• Cassia production can involve more intensive farming
• Choose organic when possible to support soil health

Fair trade importance:

• Many cinnamon farmers receive very low prices
• Fair trade certification ensures better wages
• Supporting small-scale producers helps preserve traditional methods

Ethical sourcing:

• Look for direct trade relationships
• Support companies that visit their suppliers
• Consider the full supply chain impact

Conclusion

Cinnamon tea offers a perfect blend of comfort and health benefits. Whether you’re seeking better blood sugar control, fighting inflammation, or simply enjoying a cozy evening ritual, this ancient spice delivers.

Remember to choose Ceylon cinnamon for daily drinking, start with small amounts to see how your body responds, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or take medications.

The key to getting the most from cinnamon tea is consistency and quality. Invest in good Ceylon cinnamon sticks, take time to brew your tea properly, and enjoy the process.

FAQs

How much cinnamon tea can I drink daily?

For Ceylon cinnamon: 2-4 cups daily is generally safe for healthy adults. Start with 1 cup and gradually increase.
For cassia cinnamon: Limit to 1-2 cups per week due to coumarin content. Don’t drink cassia cinnamon tea daily.
Individual factors: Your body weight, liver function, and other medications affect your tolerance. When in doubt, start small.

When is the best time to drink cinnamon tea?

Morning: May help stabilize blood sugar for the day ahead. Drink 30 minutes before breakfast for maximum benefit.
After meals: Can help with digestion and blood sugar spikes. Wait 30 minutes after eating.
Evening: The warming properties can be relaxing, though cinnamon won’t make you sleepy like chamomile.
Avoid: Right before bed if you’re sensitive to any stimulating effects.

Can cinnamon tea help with a sore throat?

Yes, it can provide relief through several mechanisms:
• Antimicrobial properties fight bacteria and viruses
• Warmth soothes irritated tissues
• Anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling
Best preparation: Warm (not hot) tea with honey. Let it coat your throat slowly.
Duration: Drink small amounts throughout the day rather than large quantities at once.

Does cinnamon tea break a fast?

Technically no: Plain cinnamon tea contains virtually no calories (2-5 calories per cup).
Practical considerations: Some fasting protocols are very strict about any caloric intake.
Insulin response: Cinnamon may slightly affect insulin sensitivity, which some consider breaking a fast.
Recommendation: Check with your fasting protocol guidelines or healthcare provider.

Can I drink cinnamon tea while pregnant?

Food amounts: Small amounts like those in cooking are generally safe.
Medicinal amounts: Multiple cups daily aren’t recommended due to potential uterine stimulation.
Safe guideline: Limit to 1 cup of mild tea occasionally, and consult your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding: Similar guidelines apply. Small amounts are typically fine.

Is cinnamon tea good for acid reflux?

Mixed results: Some people find it soothing, others find it irritating.
Mechanism: Cinnamon may help with digestion, but the spice can also trigger reflux in sensitive individuals.
Trial approach: Try a very mild tea on a non-empty stomach. Stop if symptoms worsen.
Alternative: Consider chamomile or ginger tea if cinnamon aggravates reflux.

Is cinnamon tea good for sleep?

Cinnamon tea doesn’t contain compounds that directly promote sleep like melatonin or L-theanine. However, the warm, comforting ritual of drinking tea can be relaxing. The blood sugar stabilizing effects might help prevent middle-of-the-night hunger pangs.

Does cinnamon tea have caffeine?

Pure cinnamon tea is caffeine-free. However, some commercial blends mix cinnamon with black or green tea, which do contain caffeine. Always check the label.

How should I store cinnamon for tea?

Cinnamon sticks: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They’ll stay fresh for 2-3 years.
Ground cinnamon: Use within 1-2 years for best flavor. Store in an airtight container away from light and heat.
Signs it’s time to replace: Faded color, weak aroma, or stale smell.