Cinnamon is the name for several species of trees and the spice they produce, all from the genus Cinnamomum in the Lauraceae family. Cinnamon trees are characterized by oval-shaped leaves, thick bark and berry fruit. The leaves and the bark are primary parts of the plants used. A sweet, aromatic spice with warming qualities, Cinnamon was so highly prized among ancient nations that it was regarded as a gift for monarchs and deities. It was even used to embalm mummies in ancient Egypt.