
General Information
OTHER NAMES: Many other names (and several types) of cinnamon. Cinnamomum zylanicum, Batavia Cassia, Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon cinnamon), and Cinnamomum aromaticum, Cassia
cinnamon, among others. (from bark)
HISTORY: Originated in ancient Egypt, in Ancient Rome, and in Asia about 2700 BC as a medicinal substance. As a strong Ayurvedic presence in Indian medicine.
PROPERTIES: Antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Colds, flu, sore throats
Cardiovascular: Cardiovascular health
Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, digestive problems, ulcers, nausea, vomiting, halitosis, IBS, tooth decay, "food poisoning", gas, supports digestive function, IBS
Genitourinary: Urinary tract infections, premature ejaculation, decrease in menstrual cramping, erectile dysfunction
Musculoskeletal: Arthritis, rheumatism, anti-inflammatory
Neurologic: Increases memory and mental performance (may help Alzheimer's), visual-motor speed, mild headaches, Parkinson's
Skin: Skin infections, yeast infections, acne, insect bites and stings
Glucose: May help lower sugar levels by enhancing insulin activity.
Cholesterol: Lowers cholesterol (LDL, triglycerides)
Immunity: Anti-cancer (prevention)
Other: Lice, blood thinning, diuretic, mosquito repellant, polycystic ovarian syndrome
* * *
SIDE EFFECTS: Typically, side effects occur with greater than recommended doses. These may include mouth sores, liver toxicity, a decrease in blood sugar, and increased bleeding. Skin irritation with topical use. Vomiting. Diarrhea. Drowsiness. Dizziness. Insect repellant (including ticks). Liver toxicity and possibly carcinogenic (especially cassia cinnamon that contains a fairly large amount of coumarin.
CAUTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Concomitant use with diabetes medications, blood thinners
FORMS: Oils, powders, extracts, capsules, teas
RECOMMENDED BRANDS
Finest Nutrition® [Walgreens] Cinnamon1000mg - Available through Walgreens stores
Mason Natural® Whole Herb Cinnamon Alpha Lipoic Acid - Order through Amazon link here
Oregon's Wild Harvest "True" Cinnamon (Ceylon) - May order through Amazon link here
Natural Factors® WellBetX® CinnamonRich® - Order through Amazon link here
Nature's Answer® Fluid Extract Cinnamon Bark - Order through this Amazon Link
ProCaps® Laboratories Cinnamon 350™ - Available in some retail stores
Trunature® [Costco] Advanced Strength CinSulin - Costco product
Nature's Bounty® Cinnamon 2,000 mg - Available at retail stores
Puritan's Pride® Cinnamon with High-Potency Chromium - Walmart
I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.
DOSAGES: As directed
Reported doses - often NOT supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, NIH publications and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.
1-3 gm/daily Possibly more but pending tests
Diabetes Type 2: 100 mg by mouth 4 to 5 times daily or 1000 mg (same as about 1/2 tsp) daily
Diarrhea: 1200 mg by mouth 2 times daily
Mosquito repellant: Apply 5% cream to skin
PCOS: 500 mg by mouth 3 times daily
Note: Reports of high lead and coumarin (liver toxins) levels in some cinnamon products. Chose wisely.
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
