Scientific names: Cinnamomum verum J.S. Presl, Cinnamomum cassia Blume, Cinnamomum zeylanicum Nees, Cinnamomum loureirii Nees. Family: Laureaceae.

Common names: Cinnamon, cinnamomon, Ceylon cinnamon, Chinese cinnamon, Chinese cassia, Saigon cinnamon.

Efficacy-safety rating:

Ò...Little or no evidence of efficacy.

Safety rating:

●...Little exposure or very minor concerns.

What is Cinnamon?

Cinnamon plants have oval-lanceolate, rough-textured leaves approximately 7 to 20 cm in length. The spice is derived from the brown bark that forms quills with longitudinal striations. Cinnamon bark is available in ground form as a spice. The plant is native to Sri Lanka, southeastern India, Indonesia, South America, and the West Indies.

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What is Cinnamon used for?

Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses

Reports of cinnamon use date back to 2000 BC, when texts note the importation of cinnamon from China to Egypt. Cinnamon is also mentioned in the Bible, most often for its aromatic qualities. Cinnamon is primarily used as a spice, taste enhancer, or aromatic. Historically, cinnamon has been used to treat GI upset and dysmenorrhea disorders of microcirculation, among other broad-ranging uses. The essential oil derived from the plant has been used for its activity against various microorganisms and fungi.

General uses

Cinnamon is used as a spice and aromatic. Traditionally, the bark or oil has been used to combat microorganisms, diarrhea, and other GI disorders, and dysmenorrhea, although there is limited data to support these uses. Evidence is lacking to support the use of cinnamon in the management of diabetes. Research has focused on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity.

What is the dosage of Cinnamon?

Ground cinnamon is generally given at dosages of 1 to 1.5 g/day in studies of diabetes without reported adverse reactions.

Is Cinnamon safe?

Contraindications

Contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to cinnamon or Peru Balsam. Other contraindications have not yet been identified.

Pregnancy/nursing

Data are insufficient for adequate risk to benefit analysis. Generally recognized as safe when used as food.

Interactions

None well documented.

Side Effects

Heavy exposure may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Toxicities

Information is lacking.

References

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