Condition
Treatment Support
Blood sugar regulator
Application
Tea
Cinnamon
(Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
Also know as Ceylon cinnamon
Botanical Information
A small tropical evergreen tree with eliptical leaves and prominent parallel veins in the Camphor family; a relative of the avocado.
Working with Cinnamon
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Teabag, essential oil, capsule, bulk herb, powder
Christopher Hobbs:
“Cinnamon is taken for uterine and gastrointestinal hemorrhage and for nose bleeds. Because of its astringent nature, it is used for diarrhea, and it is an effective nausea and indigestion remedy. In Chinese medicine, cinnamon is used to warm the interior, for aching of joints, chest obstruction, and phlegm retention. Cinnamon bark is one of the most important herbs in the materia medica for warming the body, activating blood, dispelling internal coldness, and improving digestion. Cinnamon oil is commonly used in mouthwashes, cosmetics, and liniments.
Cinnamon has a taste of ACRID, SWEET and a temperature of VERY WARM.”
Cinnamon has a rich history as a spice and medicinal herb dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was valued for its flavor, preservative qualities, and medicinal properties. Traditional uses span across cultures and include treating respiratory, digestive, and menstrual issues. In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, cinnamon was used for conditions like colds, indigestion, and muscle pain.
Modern Clinical Uses
Today, cinnamon is primarily used by herbalists and naturopaths as a supplement for blood sugar regulation, due to its possible effects on insulin sensitivity. It’s also promoted for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Some practitioners recommend cinnamon to support cardiovascular health, given its observed lipid-lowering effects in some studies. Additionally, it’s often recommended for digestive health and to support metabolic functions.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
The active components in cinnamon include cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and cinnamic acid, with cinnamaldehyde being primarily responsible for its distinctive flavor and potential health benefits. These compounds exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Cinnamaldehyde, in particular, has been noted to modulate insulin pathways, which might contribute to its effects on blood sugar.
Clinical Trials
Cinnamon has been studied in clinical trials primarily for its effects on blood sugar, lipid levels, and cardiovascular markers. Results are mixed; some studies show modest improvements in blood glucose and cholesterol levels, while others find limited to no benefit. Meta-analyses suggest that cinnamon may have a small but statistically significant effect on fasting blood glucose, though effects vary depending on the population and dosage.
Summary
Cinnamon remains a popular natural remedy with potential benefits for blood sugar control and metabolic health. However, caution is advised with high doses or long-term use, especially with cassia cinnamon due to its coumarin content. Research is ongoing, and while initial studies are promising, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm its efficacy for specific health conditions.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
While generally safe at culinary doses, high doses of cinnamon, especially Cinnamomum cassia, contain coumarin, which can be toxic to the liver and kidneys in large amounts. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) has lower coumarin levels, making it a safer option for supplementation. Therapeutic doses commonly range from 1-6 grams of cinnamon powder daily, though herbalists and naturopaths typically recommend staying under 1.5 grams per day for extended use to avoid adverse effects. Pregnant women and individuals on blood-thinning medications should use caution.
Conditions treated with Cinnamon
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
warming respiratory stimulant
Application
tea, tincture, capsules
Condition
Treatment Support
warming
Application
tea, capsule
Condition
Treatment Support
anti-hemorrhagic
Application
tea, tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antinauseant
Application
capsules, tincture, tea
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
