Research suggests that cinnamon contains a variety of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. However, more evidence is necessary to confirm the health benefits of cinnamon.
Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the branches of trees of the Cinnamomum family. It is native to the Caribbean, South America, and Southeast Asia.
People have used cinnamon since 2000 BC in Ancient Egypt, where they regarded it highly. In medieval times, doctors used it to treat conditions such as coughing, arthritis, and sore throats.
As a spice, cinnamon is available in powder form or whole as pieces of bark. People can also use cinnamon supplements.
There are two main types of cinnamon: cassia and Ceylon. The two have different nutritional profiles.
This article will look at the potential health benefits of different types of cinnamon and how to include them in the diet.
There are numerous possible health benefits of cinnamon.
Improving fungal infections
Cinnamon oil may help treat some types of fungal infections.
A 2016 laboratory study found that cinnamon oil was effective against a type of Candida that affects the bloodstream. This may be due to its antimicrobial properties.
If further research confirms these findings, cinnamon oil could play a role in treating this type of infection.
If a person wishes to try cinnamon essential oil, it is important to apply it to the skin with a carrier oil.
Influencing blood sugar levels
Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help manage blood sugar levels.
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However, the
More research is necessary to better understand the potential of cinnamon for managing blood sugar levels.
Preventing Alzheimer’s disease
Some animal studies have suggested that cinnamon may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
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Protecting against HIV
In a 2016 laboratory study, scientists found that an extract from cinnamon showed anti-HIV activity.
This does not mean that foods containing cinnamon can treat or prevent HIV, but cinnamon extracts could one day become a part of HIV therapy.
Preventing multiple sclerosis
Experts have tested cinnamon for activity against multiple sclerosis (MS).
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Studies have also suggested that cinnamon may protect regulatory T cells, or “Tregs,” which regulate immune responses.
People with MS appear to have lower levels of Tregs than people without the condition. In mouse
Scientists have also found that cinnamon treatment restored myelin levels in mice with MS. MS occurs when the myelin coating on nerve cells becomes damaged.
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Treating and healing chronic wounds
Some 2015 research says that scientists have found a way to package antimicrobial compounds from peppermint and cinnamon into tiny capsules that can both kill bacterial biofilms and actively promote healing.
In this way, peppermint and cinnamon could become part of a medication for treating infected wounds.
Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease
Various compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, may benefit the cardiovascular system.
While more research is necessary, cinnamon may be able to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering blood pressure and blood lipids.
A teaspoon, or
- 6.42 calories
- 2.1 g carbohydrates
- 26 milligrams (mg) calcium
- 0.21 mg iron
- 1.56 mg magnesium
- 1.66 mg phosphorus
- 11.2 mg potassium
- 0.39 micrograms (mcg) vitamin A
In food, people usually eat only a small amount of cinnamon. Therefore, the nutrients it contains will not play a significant role in the diet.
Cinnamon is the bark of a tree. People can put small pieces of bark in stews, desserts, and other dishes, or they can use ground cinnamon, for example, in cakes or on buns.
There are two main types of cinnamon: Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) and cassia, or Chinese, cinnamon (Cinnamomum aromaticum).
Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka. Some people call it “true cinnamon.” Cassia cinnamon, on the other hand, originates from southern China. Cassia is usually cheaper than Ceylon cinnamon.
Ceylon cinnamon is very expensive, so most foods in the United States — including sticky buns and breads — contain the cheaper cassia cinnamon.
People can use cinnamon in sweet or savory dishes. Cinnamon’s distinctive fragrance is a result of the cinnamaldehyde it contains.
To add cinnamon to the diet:
- Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over oatmeal to replace sugar.
- Add cinnamon to cakes, cookies, breads, and applesauce.
- Top a waffle with cinnamon and apple for a low sugar treat.
They can also try the following recipes:
In the short term, consuming moderate amounts of cinnamon as a spice or as a supplement seems to be safe for most people.
However, cinnamon contains coumarin. Consuming too much coumarin can lead to liver damage and affect coagulation.
Therefore, people should speak to their doctor before adding cinnamon or cassia to their diet if they:
- take anticoagulants or other drugs
- have diabetes
- have a liver condition
People should never use cinnamon in any form as a full replacement for medical treatments for health conditions.
Cinnamon is available as a supplement, as well as a spice. Supplements may have an impact on health and disease. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements, so there might be concerns about quality, purity, and strength. People should always ask their doctor before using supplements.
Cinnamon allergy is also possible. Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms after taking cinnamon:
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pains
- dizziness
- rashes
- itchiness
- breathing problems
- fainting
Cinnamon contains compounds that may offer various health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Some research suggests potential roles for cinnamon in managing blood sugar, improving fungal infections, and protecting against cardiovascular disease, though more evidence is necessary to confirm these effects.
While cinnamon can be a part of a healthy diet, it’s important to be aware of coumarin content, as excessive intake can lead to liver damage. Always consult a doctor before using cinnamon supplements.