Cinnamon
Important Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any remedy, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition.
Overview
Cinnamon is one of the oldest and most prized spices in the world, derived from the inner bark of Cinnamomum trees. Two main types are used medicinally: Ceylon cinnamon (C. verum) from Sri Lanka, and Cassia cinnamon (C. cassia) from China. Both have significant medicinal properties, but Ceylon cinnamon is preferred for therapeutic use due to its lower coumarin content. Cinnamon is most celebrated for its blood sugar-regulating, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Traditional Use
Cinnamon has been used medicinally for over 4,000 years. Ancient Egyptians used it in embalming and as a medicine. It was one of the most valuable spices in the ancient world — mentioned in Chinese writings from 2700 BC and in the Bible. In Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon (Tvak) is used to improve digestion, circulation, and as a warming herb. Traditional Chinese medicine uses cinnamon bark (Rou Gui) to warm the kidneys and dispel cold.
Key Active Compounds
Cinnamaldehyde
The primary volatile oil (60–90% of essential oil) responsible for cinnamon's characteristic flavor and aroma. Has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antifungal properties.
Cinnamic Acid
A phenolic compound with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential neuroprotective properties.
Procyanidins (Type-A)
Polyphenols that enhance insulin signaling by activating insulin receptors and improving glucose uptake in cells. Primary compounds responsible for blood sugar-lowering effects.
Coumarin
Present in high amounts in Cassia cinnamon; potentially hepatotoxic at high doses. Ceylon cinnamon contains very low levels — preferred for therapeutic use.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Blood sugar regulation
Moderate evidenceMultiple clinical trials show cinnamon supplementation significantly reduces fasting blood glucose (by 10–29%), HbA1c, and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes.
Antimicrobial activity
Moderate evidenceCinnamaldehyde has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi (including Candida), and viruses. Effective against food-borne pathogens and oral bacteria.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
Moderate evidenceCinnamon polyphenols inhibit NF-κB and reduce inflammatory cytokines. High antioxidant capacity reduces oxidative stress markers in clinical studies.
Cardiovascular support
Some studiesStudies show cinnamon reduces total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides while increasing HDL. May improve blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Common Preparation Methods
Cinnamon Tea
Simmer one 3-inch Ceylon cinnamon stick in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes. Or steep 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink.
Dosage: 1–3 cups dailyUse Ceylon cinnamon for regular therapeutic use to avoid coumarin accumulation from Cassia.
Cinnamon Capsules
Take standardized Ceylon cinnamon extract capsules with meals.
Dosage: 1–6 grams daily in divided doses with mealsMost studied dose for blood sugar is 1–3g daily. Use Ceylon cinnamon to minimize coumarin exposure.
Culinary Use
Add 1/2–1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to oatmeal, smoothies, coffee, yogurt, or baked goods daily.
Dosage: 1/2–1 teaspoon dailyConsistent daily culinary use provides meaningful health benefits.
Cinnamon Honey Paste
Mix 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with 1 tablespoon of raw honey. Take directly or dissolve in warm water.
Dosage: 1 teaspoon dailyTraditional remedy for colds, sore throat, and digestive complaints.
Safety & Cautions
Please read carefully before use
Contraindications
- Liver disease: avoid high doses of Cassia cinnamon (high coumarin)
- Pregnancy: avoid high medicinal doses
- Bleeding disorders: may increase bleeding risk
- Surgery: stop 2 weeks before
Drug Interactions
- Diabetes medications: may enhance blood sugar-lowering effects (monitor blood sugar)
- Anticoagulants: may increase bleeding risk
- Liver medications: coumarin in Cassia may affect liver
Possible Side Effects
- Mouth sores with excessive direct contact
- Digestive upset at high doses
- Liver damage with very high doses of Cassia cinnamon (coumarin)
- Rare allergic reactions
Special Populations
- Pregnancy: safe as food spice; avoid high-dose supplements
- Diabetics: monitor blood sugar closely when using medicinally
- Liver disease: use Ceylon cinnamon only
- Children: safe as food spice
Sources & References
Annals of Family Medicine
Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology
Food Control
Quick Reference
Lauraceae
Inner bark, Essential oil, Leaves
Warm, sweet, spicy, slightly woody
Safety First
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.