Cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Key Facts
- Scientific Name
- Cinnamomum verum
- Plant Family
- Lauraceae (Laurel family)
- Origin
- Native to Sri Lanka (Ceylon cinnamon) and southern China (Cassia cinnamon)
- Primary Use
- Metabolic & Antioxidant
Overview
Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is considered 'true cinnamon' and is prized for its delicate flavor and lower coumarin content.
Traditional Uses
Used for over 4,000 years in ancient Egypt, China, and India for digestive ailments, respiratory conditions, and as a preservative.
Active Compounds
Cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate are the primary active compounds. Ceylon cinnamon has lower coumarin levels than Cassia cinnamon.
Potential Benefits — Unverified Summary
May help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Safety & Side Effects
Ceylon cinnamon is generally safe. Cassia cinnamon contains high coumarin levels that can cause liver damage in large doses. Avoid high doses during pregnancy.
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, severe rash)
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Severe digestive issues (persistent vomiting, bloody stools)
- Severe headache or dizziness
- Any symptoms that worsen or do not improve
Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal supplements if you:
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant
- Are taking prescription medications
- Have a chronic health condition
- Are scheduled for surgery
- Are giving herbs to children
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cinnamon used for?
May help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Is Cinnamon safe?
Ceylon cinnamon is generally safe. Cassia cinnamon contains high coumarin levels that can cause liver damage in large doses. Avoid high doses during pregnancy.
What are the active compounds in Cinnamon?
Cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate are the primary active compounds. Ceylon cinnamon has lower coumarin levels than Cassia cinnamon.
What is the scientific name of Cinnamon?
The scientific name of Cinnamon is Cinnamomum verum.
What are the traditional uses of Cinnamon?
Used for over 4,000 years in ancient Egypt, China, and India for digestive ailments, respiratory conditions, and as a preservative.
When should I see a doctor when using Cinnamon?
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Cinnamon or any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, have a chronic health condition, or are scheduled for surgery. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe digestive issues, or any symptoms that worsen or do not improve. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Source Records — Verification Pending
These identifiers were recorded in the original dataset. They are not complete citations or evidence that the claims above have been checked.
- PMC7959578
- Healthline-Cinnamon-2024
- NCCIH-Cinnamon-2025