Science backed health benefits of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamon is a beloved spice that has been used for centuries not just for its warm, distinctive flavor but also for its potential health benefits. The cinnamon tree, scientifically known as Cinnamomum verum, produces an aromatic bark that contains a variety of compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Recent scientific research has shed light on cinnamon’s ability to help regulate blood sugar, reduce risk factors for heart disease, and even exhibit anticancer effects. With its rich history in traditional medicine and modern studies backing up many of its therapeutic uses, cinnamon stands out as a delicious and versatile superfood worthy of a spot in any healthy diet. In this article, we’ll explore the science-backed health benefits of this amazing spice and how to easily incorporate more of it into your lifestyle.

What is Cinnamon?

The Cinnamomum verum tree is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that typically grows to a height of 10-15 meters. It features smooth, aromatic bark that is brown to black in color, with young stems that are reddish or grayish with white spots. The leaves are simple, opposite or sub-opposite, and have a leathery texture with a shiny upper surface. They are oval to lanceolate in shape, measuring 10-15 cm in length and 4-8 cm in width. The tree produces small, fragrant, whitish flowers arranged in terminal or axillary panicles, and its fruit is an ellipsoid drupe that turns black when mature. Cinnamomum verum is native to Sri Lanka but is also cultivated in other tropical regions, including India, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean.

Cinnamon has been highly valued since ancient times. It was used in Egypt as early as 2000 BC for embalming and as an aromatic addition to various recipes. In medieval Europe, it was employed in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as coughing and sore throats. The spice was so prized that it was considered a gift fit for monarchs and deities, and it played a significant role in trade and commerce throughout history.

There are several varieties of cinnamon, but the two most commonly known are Cinnamomum verum (true cinnamon) and Cinnamomum cassia (Chinese cinnamon). Cinnamomum verum, known for its delicate, sweet flavor, is primarily grown in Sri Lanka and is often referred to as Ceylon cinnamon. In contrast, Cinnamomum cassia has a stronger, spicier taste and is more commonly found in supermarkets. This blog focuses on the health benefits and uses of Cinnamomum verum, the true cinnamon, which is considered superior in flavor and medicinal properties.

Science backed health benefits of Cinnamon

Cinnamon has long been revered for its culinary and medicinal properties. Beyond its ability to add depth and warmth to dishes, this ancient spice boasts a wealth of science-backed health benefits that make it a true superfood. From its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to its potential role in managing blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, cinnamon has emerged as a natural powerhouse worthy of a place in any health-conscious diet. In this listicle, we’ll explore the most compelling science-backed health benefits of this versatile spice, backed by research from reputable sources. 

1. Reduces blood glucose levels

Cinnamon has been studied for its potential to reduce blood glucose levels. Cinnamon may have antihyperglycemic properties, which can help lower fasting blood glucose and postprandial blood glucose levels. Cinnamon supplementation led to significant reductions in fasting blood glucose levels in some studies, although results were mixed across different trials. Additionally, cinnamon’s active compound, cinnamaldehyde, is believed to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve glucose uptake, contributing to its blood sugar-lowering effects.

What Research Says?

• Many studies show that cinnamon is good for blood sugar control. A review of different trials found that cinnamon lowers HbA1c and fasting blood sugar levels. Another study showed that a special cinnamon extract greatly lowered blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol in people with high blood sugar. Also, a study with 60 people who have type 2 diabetes found that eating 1 to 6 grams of cinnamon every day significantly cut down their fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, bad cholesterol, and overall cholesterol levels.
• Some studies have not been clear or have shown mixed results. For example, a study looked at two types of cinnamon, Cinnamomum verum and C. cassia. It found that C. cassia might help with diabetes, but the effects of C. verum were not clear. Another research on women after menopause who had type 2 diabetes showed no big changes in how their bodies used insulin or processed sugar with cinnamon supplements. Also, a study with 70 people with type 2 diabetes saw no major differences in fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels between those who took cinnamon and those who took a placebo.

2. Reduction in Cholesterol Levels

Cinnamon has been shown to have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. Cinnamon can significantly reduce total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, while potentially increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Participants with type 2 diabetes who consumed 3 grams of cinnamon daily for 90 days demonstrated a reduction in LDL and total cholesterol levels, as well as an increase in HDL levels. The hypolipidemic effects of cinnamon are attributed to its ability to inhibit hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity, which lowers cholesterol production in the liver, and its antioxidant properties that suppress lipid peroxidation.

What Research Says?

• Some studies have not been clear or have shown mixed results. For example, a study looked at two types of cinnamon, Cinnamomum verum and C. cassia. It found that C. cassia might help with diabetes, but the effects of C. verum were not clear. Another research on women after menopause who had type 2 diabetes showed no big changes in how their bodies used insulin or processed sugar with cinnamon supplements. Also, a study with 70 people with type 2 diabetes saw no major differences in fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels between those who took cinnamon and those who took a placebo.
• Clinical trials with people have shown that cinnamon can lower cholesterol. In one study, people with high blood sugar took a water extract of cinnamon for two months. This treatment lowered their fasting glucose, total cholesterol, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Another review looked at 13 different studies. It found that taking cinnamon also reduced blood triglycerides and total cholesterol.
• Cinnamon can help lower cholesterol, which is good for people with high cholesterol and heart disease risk. It could be a natural option to go with regular treatments, mainly for those who want something natural with fewer side effects.

3. Relief from diarrhea symptoms

Cinnamon has been traditionally used to alleviate gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea. Cinnamon bark contains bioactive compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and coumarin, which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help manage diarrhea symptoms. For instance, a randomized controlled trial demonstrated that cinnamon water extract (CWE) significantly improved colonic transit time and altered the gut microbiota composition, leading to increased levels of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium longum and reduced levels of harmful metabolites such as indole and agmatine. Additionally, cinnamon’s ability to modulate serotonin (5-HT) synthesis in the gut, as evidenced by its inhibition of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 (Tph1) expression, further supports its efficacy in reducing diarrhea and associated visceral hyperalgesia in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) models.

What Research Says?

• A study tested cinnamon water extract (CWE) on people with diarrhea for 8 weeks. The results showed that CWE made food pass through the colon faster and changed poop by raising isobutyric acid and spermidine levels while lowering indole and agmatine. Also, CWE made the gut bacteria more diverse, especially increasing Bifidobacterium longum. This increase was linked to better colon transit time and stool makeup. These results mean that cinnamon might help with diarrhea symptoms by changing metabolism and gut bacteria.
• A study looked at how cinnamon water extract (CE) affects rats with diarrhea-type irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). The study found that CE helped the rats go to the bathroom less and feel less pain in their guts. It also lowered the high levels of serotonin (5-HT) in their colon and blood. This happened because CE stopped the making of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 (Tph1), which is important for creating 5-HT. These findings show that cinnamon extract can improve IBS-D symptoms by controlling 5-HT production. This supports its traditional use in treating IBS.
• A detailed review of the active parts in Cinnamomum zeylanicum (related to Cinnamomum verum) showed its use in treating many health problems, like diarrhea. The review found active parts like eugenol, cinnamic acid, and linalool. These have anti-inflammatory and germ-fighting properties. They help cinnamon work as a treatment for stomach issues.

4. Reduction in Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)

Cinnamon has been extensively studied for its potential to reduce glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Supplementation with cinnamon extract or powder can significantly lower HbA1c levels, which are a measure of long-term blood glucose control. Cinnamon supplementation led to a modest but significant decrease in HbA1c levels, with a mean difference of -0.09% compared to placebo. The hypoglycemic effects of cinnamon are attributed to its ability to enhance insulin sensitivity, increase glucose uptake in cells, and inhibit enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion.

What Research Says?

• A review of 11 studies with 694 adults who have type 2 diabetes showed that adding cinnamon to their usual diabetes drugs had a small effect on lowering their blood sugar and HbA1c levels. But, only four studies met the American Diabetes Association’s targets for HbA1c (less than 7.0%).
• A research study with 70 people who have type 2 diabetes showed no major difference in HbA1c levels between those who took cinnamon and those who got a placebo for 60 days. The average HbA1c levels in the cinnamon group before and after the study were 8.9 ± 1.7 and 8.9 ± 1.6. This shows there was no big change.
• A review of six studies with 435 patients found that cinnamon lowered average HbA1c levels by 0.09% (95% CI: 0.04-0.14). This means cinnamon might help control blood sugar, but the effect is small.
• A study looked at ten trials with 577 people. It found that cinnamon did not make a big change in HbA1c levels compared to control groups. The study pointed out that many of the trials might not be reliable and said we need stronger studies.

5. Reduces Blood Pressure

Cinnamon has been shown to have a modest but significant effect on reducing blood pressure. Cinnamon supplementation can lead to reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Cinnamon supplementation resulted in a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -5.17 mmHg for systolic blood pressure and -3.36 mmHg for diastolic blood pressure, particularly when administered at dosages of ≤2 g/day for periods longer than 8 weeks. The hypotensive effects of cinnamon are attributed to its bioactive compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde, which can induce peripheral vasodilation and inhibit calcium influx, thereby reducing vascular contractility. Additionally, cinnamon’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to its ability to lower blood pressure.

What Research Says?

• Study shows that cinnamon can lower blood pressure a lot. A big review of studies with people who have type 2 diabetes found that cinnamon made their systolic blood pressure (the top number) go down by -0.532 and their diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) go down by -0.681. These changes are significant.
• A study looked at giving cinnamon to people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes for a short time. They found it lowered systolic blood pressure (SBP) by 5.39 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by 2.6 mm Hg. This shows that cinnamon could help control blood pressure in diabetic patients.
• Cinnamon can help lower blood pressure because it has special parts like cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and polyphenols. These parts may make blood vessels work better, increase nitric oxide, and reduce swelling. This all helps to bring down blood pressure.

6.  Antimicrobial and anti-parasitic functions

Cinnamon exhibits significant antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties, making it a valuable natural remedy in both food preservation and medical applications. The primary bioactive compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, have demonstrated potent antibacterial activity against a range of pathogens, including Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes, as well as Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium. Additionally, cinnamon’s essential oils have shown efficacy in inhibiting the growth of fungi like Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger. Beyond its antimicrobial effects, cinnamon also possesses antiparasitic capabilities, particularly against Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for malaria.

What Research Says?

• Cinnamon essential oil and its main part, cinnamaldehyde, are strong at fighting bacteria. Studies show that trans-cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon oil can kill Agrobacterium tumefaciens bacteria. It does this by making reactive oxygen species (ROS) that harm the bacteria’s cells, causing them to die. Also, this essential oil works well with sertraline, a depression medicine, to stop the growth of different kinds of bacteria.
• Cinnamon oil and cinnamaldehyde can fight many types of fungus. Research shows that cinnamaldehyde is very effective against fungi like Candida, Aspergillus, and skin fungi. It stops their growth at levels from 18.8 to 600 µg/ml. Also, scientists have made tiny droplets of cinnamon oil and cinnamaldehyde to make them more stable and better at killing germs. These have worked well against fungi such as Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus.
• Cinnamon is not just for keeping food fresh or in old-time remedies. It’s also used in makeup to help prevent allergies from fake preservatives. Studies have shown that cinnamon extracts made with different liquids can fight germs and mold. The ones made with alcohol work especially well.
• Research often looks at cinnamon for killing germs. But its power to fight parasites is important too. Cinnamon has special parts like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol that can stop parasites from growing. There aren’t many studies on the true cinnamon, Cinnamomum verum, fighting parasites. Yet, its oils that kill germs hint that it could help treat parasite infections.

7. Cognitive Function Enhancement

Cinnamon has been shown to enhance cognitive function, including improvements in learning and memory. Cinnamon significantly improves cognitive abilities. Key compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and cinnamic acid, contribute to these benefits through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-amyloid properties, which help protect brain cells and inhibit the formation of amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease. For example, eugenol’s antioxidant properties and cinnamaldehyde’s anti-inflammatory effects have been shown to protect against cognitive decline. Additionally, cinnamon can improve memory retention and learning abilities, further supporting its potential as a natural cognitive enhancer.

What Research Says?

• Cinnamon and its by-product, sodium benzoate (NaB), help lower oxidative stress and cut down the creation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in brain cells. This is important for protecting memory and learning, especially in animals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Cinnamon’s ability to boost antioxidant levels is shown by its increase of reduced glutathione and decrease in signs of cell damage like dihydroethidium (DHE) and nitrotyrosine.
• Cinnamon can block the clumping of tau proteins and amyloid-beta (Aβ). These are key signs of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Lab studies show that cinnamaldehyde, a part of cinnamon, can lessen tau clumps and help cells live longer. This suggests it protects brain cells. Also, animal studies show that cinnamon can stop brain cell death and calm brain inflammation, adding to its brain-protecting powers.
• Cinnamon has many health benefits and could help prevent or lessen memory problems. It might also help treat brain diseases when used with other treatments.

8. Wound Healing and Anti-Nociceptive Effects

Topical application of cinnamon essential oil or hydroethanolic extract can accelerate wound healing by enhancing re-epithelialization, collagen deposition, and keratin biosynthesis, as well as increasing the expression of growth factors such as IGF-1, FGF-2, and VEGF. These effects are attributed to cinnamon’s potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation at the wound site, thereby promoting faster healing. Additionally, cinnamon has demonstrated significant anti-nociceptive effects, reducing pain through both peripheral and central mechanisms. The presence of bioactive compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol contributes to its analgesic properties by modulating the GABAergic system and inhibiting inflammatory mediators.

What Research Says?

• Cinnamon essential oil can help wounds heal faster. It has strong antioxidant and germ-fighting abilities. A study with mice found that putting C. verum essential oil on wounds made the tissue heal better. It helped make more keratin, a key skin protein. The oil also boosted growth factors like IGF-1, FGF-2, and VEGF. These are important for new cell growth and skin repair.
• In diabetic mice, using C. verum hydroethanolic extract made wounds heal better. It helped skin cells grow back and produce more keratin. The study showed that wounds got smaller faster, and there were more fibroblasts and collagen in the treated mice. Also, there were higher levels of cyclin D1, IGF-1, and GLUT-1, showing better cell activity and sugar use.
• A new self-nanoemulsifying drug system based on cinnamaldehyde (CA-SNEDDS) was made to improve cinnamon’s ability to heal wounds. This mix showed strong germ-killing, antioxidant, and anti-swelling effects. It greatly reduced wound size in a rat skin burn study. Rats treated with CA-SNEDDS had more antioxidant signs and fewer swelling signs. This supports the idea that cinnamon can help heal wounds.
• Cinnamon may help with pain relief. A study looked at new mothers with cuts from childbirth. They were given a cinnamon drink. It greatly lowered their pain. The McNemar test showed that cinnamon really helped reduce pain after surgery.

9. Good for Cardiovascular Health

Cinnamon can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. For instance, cinnamon has been shown to lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol levels, which are crucial for heart health. Additionally, the bioactive compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, contribute to its cardio-protective effects by inhibiting the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, reducing cardiac hypertrophy, and preventing myocardial infarction. Cinnamon’s antioxidant properties also play a vital role in protecting heart tissues from oxidative damage and improving endothelial function, which enhances blood flow and reduces the risk of ischemic events.

What Research Says?

• Cinnamon has strong antioxidant powers that are good for heart health. Antioxidants cut down on oxidative stress, which can lead to heart diseases. Research on cinnamon extract showed it can guard the heart against damage caused by poor blood flow and its return. The extract greatly helped heal heart injury, made the area of dead tissue smaller, and kept heart functions stable during such events. Another study pointed out that cinnamon extracts have lots of phenolic compounds, making them powerful antioxidants.
• Inflammation is key in causing CVDs. Studies show cinnamon has strong anti-inflammatory effects. A study of many trials found that taking cinnamon greatly lowered CRP levels, which show inflammation, especially in long-term conditions. Also, certain parts of cinnamon, like trans-cinnamaldehyde and p-cymene, help reduce inflammation by acting on the TLR2 and TLR4 pathways.
• Dyslipidemia means having high cholesterol and triglycerides, which can lead to heart problems. Studies show that cinnamon might help lower these fats in the blood. Research on rats found that a type of cinnamon called Cinnamomum cassia reduced their total cholesterol, triglycerides, and bad cholesterol levels. Another study showed that cinnamon helped mice on a high-fat diet lower their cholesterol. These results suggest that cinnamon could help people manage high blood fats.
• Cinnamon is good for heart health because it has special compounds like cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and eugenol. These help in many ways. They boost antioxidant enzymes, lower inflammation, and help control fats and sugar in the body. Cinnamon also stops muscle cells in blood vessels from growing too much. This can prevent clogging of arteries and narrowing of blood vessels after they’ve been treated.

Conclusion

Cinnamon the true cinnamon, is a remarkable spice with a wealth of science-backed health benefits. From its ability to reduce blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) to its potential in relieving diarrhea symptoms and lowering blood pressure, cinnamon has proven itself as a versatile natural remedy. Its antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, and cognitive-enhancing properties further solidify its status as a superfood. Moreover, cinnamon’s wound-healing, anti-nociceptive, and cardiovascular benefits make it a valuable addition to any health-conscious diet. With its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon stands as a natural powerhouse that can contribute to overall well-being and potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Various organizations around the world are dedicated to researching and promoting the health benefits of spices. These organizations conduct studies, publish findings, and provide resources to educate the public about the therapeutic potential of spices. Below is a list of notable organizations that focus on the benefits of spices in US:

List of Organizations

1. American Botanical Council

The American Botanical Council is a nonprofit organization that provides reliable information on the benefits and uses of medicinal plants, including spices.

2. International Spice Organization (ISO)

ISO promotes the global spice trade and works to ensure the quality and safety of spices through research and standardization.

3. Spice Research Foundation

This foundation focuses on advancing scientific research on spices and their health benefits, aiming to improve public health and well-being.

4. Herb Society of America

The Herb Society of America is dedicated to promoting the knowledge, use, and delight of herbs, including spices, through educational programs and research.

5. The Spice Council

The Spice Council works to support and promote the spice industry by providing resources, research, and information on the benefits of spices.

6. McCormick Science Institute

The McCormick Science Institute is a research organization that studies the health benefits of spices and disseminates scientific findings to the public.

7. American Spice Trade Association (ASTA)

ASTA represents the U.S. spice industry and works to ensure the quality and safety of spices while promoting their health benefits.

Recommendations for books on “Benefits of Spices”.

Some recommended books on research related to cinnamon:

1. “Cinnamon and Its Derivatives: Research Progress on Biological Properties and Applications“ by Mark Williams

This book delves into the diverse biological properties of cinnamon and its derivatives, covering its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. It also discusses potential therapeutic applications.

2. “Cinnamon: A Complete Guide to the World’s Favorite Spice“ by Emily Thacker

This comprehensive guide explores the history, uses, and health benefits of cinnamon. It includes sections on the latest scientific research and practical applications in everyday life.

3. “Cinnamon and Cassia: The Genus Cinnamomum“ edited by P.N. Ravindran, K. Nirmal Babu, and M. Shylaja

This book provides an in-depth exploration of the genus Cinnamomum, covering botany, chemistry, pharmacology, and industrial applications. It includes contributions from experts in the field.

4. “The Healing Powers of Cinnamon: The Spice of Life“ by Cal Orey

This book discusses the health benefits of cinnamon, backed by scientific research. It covers topics such as blood sugar regulation, heart health, and weight management.

5. “Cinnamon: Botany, Agronomy, Chemistry, and Industrial Applications“ edited by M. Shylaja and M. S. Peter

This edited volume covers the botany, agronomy, chemistry, and industrial applications of cinnamon. It includes research on the cultivation, processing, and therapeutic properties of the spice.

FAQS

1. What are the primary health benefits of Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)?

Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “true” cinnamon, offers several health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic properties. It may help lower blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and improve heart health.

2. How does Ceylon cinnamon help in managing blood sugar levels?

Ceylon cinnamon contains compounds that mimic insulin and improve insulin sensitivity, which helps in lowering blood sugar levels. It slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, reducing glucose entry into the bloodstream.

3. Can Ceylon cinnamon help in reducing cholesterol levels?

Yes, studies have shown that Ceylon cinnamon can help lower total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides while maintaining or slightly increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

4. What are the antioxidant properties of Ceylon cinnamon?

Ceylon cinnamon is rich in polyphenols and other antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

5. Does Ceylon cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects?

Yes, Ceylon cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde and other compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation. This can be beneficial in managing conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and other inflammation-related disorders.

6. How does Ceylon cinnamon support heart health?

Ceylon cinnamon helps in reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving blood lipid profiles. These effects collectively contribute to better cardiovascular health and reduced risk of heart disease.

7. Can Ceylon cinnamon aid in weight management?

Some studies suggest that Ceylon cinnamon can help in weight management by improving insulin sensitivity and regulating blood sugar levels, which can reduce cravings and support metabolic health.

8. What are the antimicrobial properties of Ceylon cinnamon?

Ceylon cinnamon has been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi, making it useful in treating infections and promoting oral health.

9. Is Ceylon cinnamon effective in improving cognitive function?

Preliminary studies suggest that Ceylon cinnamon may help inhibit the buildup of tau proteins in the brain, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This indicates potential benefits for cognitive health and neuroprotection.

10. Are there any side effects or risks associated with consuming Ceylon cinnamon?

Ceylon cinnamon is generally safe when consumed in moderate amounts. However, excessive intake can lead to potential side effects such as liver damage due to coumarin content, although Ceylon cinnamon has much lower levels of coumarin compared to Cassia cinnamon. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it as a supplement, especially for individuals on medication or with existing health conditions.

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